New Dutch Cabinet Takes Shape, Focus on Defense and Housing
The Netherlands is set to have a new minority cabinet led by Prime Minister Rob Jetten, with appointments announced on February 10, 2026. The coalition government, formed by the D66, VVD and CDA parties, faces the challenge of implementing significant reforms with a slim majority of 66 seats in parliament. This development comes as investors closely watch the political landscape in Europe for signs of stability and policy direction.
Among the key appointments, Jaimi van Essen, currently a climate official in Deventer, will serve as the new Minister of Agriculture. He will be tasked with addressing the ongoing nitrogen crisis and reducing the number of farms, a move that has already drawn criticism from farming organizations concerned about potential impacts on the agricultural sector.
Claudia van Bruggen has been nominated as the State Secretary of Justice and Security, overseeing legal protection and the prison system. Her background includes experience as an administrator at Mesdag, an organization providing care for individuals with complex mental health issues.
Willemijn Aerdts, a cybersecurity expert, is slated to become the State Secretary for Economic Affairs, focusing on digital economy and sovereignty. Elanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan is the proposed Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning, with a key objective of constructing 100,000 homes annually.
Notably, the new cabinet includes a significant number of individuals with expertise in defense. This reflects a growing emphasis on national security within the Dutch government. The appointments signal a potential shift in policy priorities, as the country navigates a complex geopolitical environment.
The composition of the cabinet, featuring fifteen men and thirteen women, has been unveiled as the deadline for the ministers and state secretaries to take office on February 23 approaches. The new team is expected to address pressing issues such as housing shortages and economic challenges. The appointment of a high-ranking military official underscores the importance placed on defense capabilities.
The role of Minister of Defense is being viewed as a significant opportunity, moving away from a traditionally challenging position to a more prominent role within the government. The cabinet’s formation marks a pivotal moment for the Netherlands, as it prepares to implement its policy agenda and navigate the complexities of minority rule.
