Independent Thinking Europe after the Dutch elections. Goodbye far right? Not so fast.
Oct 31, 2025
Sébastien Maillard, a Chatham House Associate Fellow, provides keen insights on European political trends following the recent Dutch elections, while Karien van Gennip, former Deputy Prime Minister, discusses the implications for domestic and business perspectives. They analyze the significance of Geert Wilders' setbacks and the rise of Rob Jetten, emphasizing the complexities of coalition-making in a fragmented political landscape. They also touch on the evolving dynamics of populism, socioeconomic grievances driving voter behavior, and the far-right's impact on centrist narratives across Europe.
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Far-Right Bloc Still Significant
- Far-right total share remains roughly stable at 25–30% despite Wilders' party losing seats.
- Other far-right parties like Forum for Democracy offset Wilders' losses, keeping the bloc strong.
Personality Shapes Election Results
- Dutch election shows strong personalization of politics, with leaders driving party success.
- Fragmentation and voter volatility amplify the effect of individual personalities on outcomes.
Europe Trending Rightward Generally
- Across Europe there's a general rightward shift with many governments including right or far-right elements.
- Traditional mainstream parties often retain institutional dominance while their agendas move rightward.