On November 19, parliamentary elections in the Netherlands saw intense political competition. Populist Geert Wilders, known for his skepticism towards Ukraine and tough stance on migration, was expected to gain a commanding lead. However, the outcome was surprising: the pro-European liberal party D66 secured 27 seats in the House of Representatives, 18 more than last year. Wilders' Freedom Party is predicted to win only 25 mandates—12 fewer than its previous tally.
Besides D66 and Wilders' party, the top five are rounded out by the center-right People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (23 seats), the Green-Left Alliance (20 seats), and the Christian Democratic Appeal (19 seats). Overall, up to 15 parties will be represented, making coalition talks more complicated. Nevertheless, centrist and center-left deputies have enough seats to form a stable government majority.
Wilders’ defeat is attributed to a decline in public trust after he pulled out of a previous coalition over refugee legislation. His campaign, centered on a total ban on asylum for migrants, triggered nationwide protests and human rights criticism. The harsh anti-migration rhetoric—especially on social media—galvanized civic opposition, while other parties opted for more balanced solutions to housing, migration, and living costs.
D66 leader Rob Jetten advocates a pro-European approach, constructive EU dialogue, and investment in education, housing, and climate action. The new government must address the acute housing crisis and raise living standards. Jetten could become the youngest and first openly gay Dutch prime minister, but he emphasizes that effective, optimistic policy is paramount.
With so many parties in parliament, coalition formation will take time. The elections demonstrated society's demand for stability, constructive governance, and European cooperation. Experts expect lengthy negotiation, but the results show populist rhetoric no longer dominates Dutch politics.
