Can a fresh face really reshape a country’s political direction? In The Hague, that question is suddenly very real.
At just 38, Rob Jetten has been sworn in as the Netherlands’ youngest-ever prime minister—and its first openly gay leader.
Posting a confident “Let’s get to work,” alongside a photo with King Willem-Alexander, Jetten signaled urgency from day one.
But his rise wasn’t straightforward. In a dramatic election, he edged out the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders—a result that surprised many observers.
“You can beat populism with a positive message,” Jetten said after his win. Bold claim—but can he prove it?
Fragile Coalition Challenge
His party, Democrats 66, has formed a coalition with the CDA and VVD. There’s a catch, though: they’re nine seats short of a majority.
That means compromise, negotiation… and constant pressure.
Still, forming a government in 117 days—far quicker than the previous 223—suggests momentum.
So what now? A young leader, a fragile coalition, and a divided political landscape.
Because winning power is one thing. Holding it together? That’s the real test.
