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On 29 October 2025, the Dutch will elect a new parliament – and in doing so, determine the course of one of the European Union’s most politically and economically influential member states. After a period of pronounced political instability, during which the Schoof cabinet collapsed after only eleven months, the country now faces a decisive choice between populist forces and centrist politics. According to opinion polls, trust in politics and public institutions has reached a historic low. The debate has been shaped above all by the housing shortage and the country’s economic competitiveness. Issues relating to migration and the Netherlands’ international role – from support for Ukraine and relations with Israel to defence spending and the reintroduction of conscription – have also played a central role. The election campaign is correspondingly polarised: once again, the populist Geert Wilders is seen as the frontrunner, with his far-right nationalist PVV leading the polls despite the country’s security concerns and his controversial rhetoric. At the same time, the EPP member party CDA is seeking to restore credibility and stability in politics – and in doing so, could ultimately steer the Netherlands into a safe harbour. The CDA is on track to become the second-strongest party and, with its popular lead candidate Henri Bontenbal, could provide the next prime minister of the Netherlands.
For the EU, this election carries particular significance. The Netherlands are one of the Union’s founding members, rank among its strongest economies, and serve as a key hub of the single market. Moreover, The Hague’s positions on defence, foreign policy, migration and fiscal discipline strongly influence major European debates. The outcome of the election will therefore have a direct impact on the EU’s overall political direction.
The event "The Morning After – The Netherlands have voted" will take place online on Thursday, 30 October 2025, from 09:30 to 10:15 (CEST) via the platform Zoom. We look forward to discussing the topics above with Günter Gülker, Head of the German Dutch Chamber of Commerce in The Hague. After the conversation between Mr Gülker and Dr Beatrice Gorawantschy, Head of the KAS Europe Office in Brussels, the audience will have the opportunity to ask their own questions. The event will be held in German, with simultaneous translation into English. We would be pleased to have you with us!
Download the agenda: Programme 25-10-30 The Morning After - The Netherlands have voted.pdf
