Rob Jetten, just 38, was sworn in as the country’s youngest-ever prime minister. He’s also the first openly gay leader in Dutch history, something that seems to have barely raised an eyebrow at home, but might feel symbolic abroad. Jetten leads a minority coalition made up of his Democrats' 66 (D66) party, the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDA), and the centre-right People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD).
The coalition holds only 66 of the 150 seats in the lower house, meaning Jetten will have to negotiate, cajole, and compromise constantly to get laws passed. As reported by Associated Press (AP), this is the Netherlands’ new minority government in decades, so every vote could become a mini-battle.
From ‘Robot’ to Prime Minister: Jetten’s journey through politics and leadership
He was once nicknamed “Robot Jetten” for his stiff, over-rehearsed way of answering questions. It seems he’s shed that image. At election night gatherings in Leiden, he appeared confident, relaxed, and in control.
He’s not new to politics. Jetten started as a Policy Officer for D66’s Senate group in 2008, rising quickly through the youth wing, the Young Democrats. He then served as Parliamentary Group Leader in Nijmegen for seven years. Alongside politics, he gained experience in management roles at Randstad, ProRail, and as a strategy advisor. By 2017, he was elected to the House of Representatives and later became D66’s Party Leader in 2023.
He also served as Minister for Climate and Energy between 2022 and 2024, overseeing the country’s climate transition and energy strategy. This mix of administrative skill, party loyalty, and policy experience now underpins his premiership.
Robb Jetten: Rises to lead the Netherlands with focus on teamwork and European ties
As reported by Euronews, Jetten’s rise came after D66’s narrow October 2025 victory over Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom (PVV). The snap elections followed the collapse of Dick Schoof’s government, one of the shortest-lived in Dutch history. It seems voters were looking for a fresh face, something upbeat, pro-EU, and socially liberal. Jetten fits that bill.
Experts say his appointment is a relief in Brussels, where leaders keep a close eye on Europe’s fifth-largest economy. While far-right parties have been making gains in countries like Germany and France, the Dutch chose a leader who promises collaboration and moderation. But with only a minority in parliament, his government will need all its bridge-building skills.
Jetten faces pushback on taxes, healthcare, and refugee rules
Leading a three-party minority government isn’t easy. Every policy, from defence spending an extra €19bn reportedly to asylum regulations, will need negotiation with opposition parties. Refugees might be required to apply before entering Europe, a sensitive topic that has contributed to previous governments’ downfall.
Jetten’s coalition also plans cuts to healthcare and benefits, which might stir public unrest. As reported by AP, Jesse Klaver (Opposition leader) of the GreenLeft-Labour alliance has already criticised financial plans, claiming ordinary citizens will pay more while the richest avoid extra taxes.
