Brussels – The swearing-in ceremony held today (23 February) in The Hague marks an unprecedented generational turning point for Dutch politics. Rob Jetten, leader of the liberal Democrats 66 (D66) party, officially took office as Prime Minister before King Willem-Alexander, becoming the youngest leader in Dutch history at just 38 years of age. A leading figure in the centrist camp and a champion of civil rights, Jetten is thus bringing the country back onto a pro-European track after the right-wing and far-right government led by Dick Schoof, which fell in the summer of 2025.
Jetten’s appointment marks the beginning of a new political era, giving rise to the first minority government the country has experienced in decades. After its narrow victory over Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), D66 reached an agreement with the liberals of the VVD and the Christian Democrats of the CDA, a coalition that will require constant parliamentary mediation to ensure legislative stability. “Proud to be able to do this together. In a new phase, with great responsibility and above all with a shared promise to work hard for everyone in the Netherlands,” Jetten wrote on X. The Prime Minister then outlined the course of his mandate, urging the nation to change pace: “Not dwelling on what doesn’t work, but building on what can be improved. Courage and collaboration are needed.”
There has been no shortage of good wishes and warm welcomes from the leaders of European institutions in Brussels. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, expressed her support for the new leader on X: “Congratulations to Rob Jetten on his swearing-in as Prime Minister of the Netherlands. From the economy to security, we will work together for the good of the Netherlands and the whole of Europe. I look forward to starting our close cooperation and welcoming you here in Brussels next week.”
The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of the Dutch contribution amid the continent’s current challenges. In sharing her best wishes with the new Prime Minister, Metsola remarked that “Europe is counting on his energy and commitment. I look forward to working together to build a stronger Europe, bring it closer to its citizens and deliver results for everyone.” With these diplomatic premises, the Jetten government is now preparing for its parliamentary debut, aiming to translate international enthusiasm into concrete reforms for the Dutch internal market.
English version by the Translation Service of Withub
