The Netherlands is set to swear in its youngest-ever prime minister as 38-year-old Rob Jetten takes office in The Hague. Jetten will also become the country’s first openly gay prime minister, marking a historic moment in Dutch political history. The new government will be formally installed by King Willem-Alexander at the Huis Ten Bosch Palace.
Jetten’s rise follows a closely fought snap election in October, where his centrist party overturned the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders. The result signals a shift in Dutch politics after months of uncertainty.
Election Upset and Coalition Formation
Jetten’s Democrats 66 (D66) secured a narrow victory over Wilders’ PVV, which had earlier triggered the collapse of the previous coalition by withdrawing support. The prior government, considered the most right-wing in recent Dutch history, lasted just 11 months.
After 117 days of negotiations, D66 formed a coalition with the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) and the liberal People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). The alliance controls 66 seats in the 150-member parliament, falling nine short of a majority. This means the government will depend on opposition backing to pass major legislation.
Policy Direction and European Focus
During the campaign, Jetten stressed the need to counter populism with a “positive message” and pledged to return the Netherlands “to the heart of Europe”. The coalition’s January manifesto promised continued support for Ukraine and reaffirmed commitments to NATO defence spending targets.
The government has outlined plans for budget discipline, opting for spending cuts rather than deficit financing. Proposed measures include reductions in social benefits and increased investment in defence. On migration, the coalition intends to maintain stricter policies, including tougher family reunification rules, reflecting continuity with previous frameworks.
Political Landscape and Opposition
Geert Wilders’ PVV dropped from 37 to 26 seats, limiting its influence despite finishing second. Coalition parties had ruled out partnering with Wilders, effectively sidelining him from governance.
Other right-wing forces made gains. Forum for Democracy, led by Lidewij de Vos, and JA21 increased their parliamentary presence with campaigns centred on immigration control and criticism of the European Union. Analysts note that although Jetten’s government is more centrist, it retains a discernible right-leaning policy signature.
Important Facts for Exams
- The Netherlands follows a parliamentary constitutional monarchy.
- King Willem-Alexander is the current Dutch monarch.
- The Dutch parliament, called the States General, has 150 seats in the lower house.
- NATO requires member states to aim for defence spending of 2% of GDP.
Significance of the Leadership Transition
Jetten’s appointment reflects generational and social change in Dutch politics. As the youngest and first openly gay prime minister, his leadership is seen as symbolically significant both domestically and across Europe. However, with a minority coalition and a fragmented parliament, his administration faces immediate tests in delivering reforms and maintaining political stability.