Dutch election: Complicacy and political limbo

Netherlands, the first European country to hold a general election this year is undoubtedly heading for a political limbo as the polls show a more fragmented parliament than ever. Three decades ago, top three Dutch parties used to control more than 85 percent of the seats in 150-strong Dutch parliament; a decade ago it was 60 percent but this year, according to the polls, they will be able to hold onto just 42 percent of the seats, which basically means that coalition, complicacy, and compromises ahead. Almost 10 different parties are expected to win seats in the parliament this year.

This year, Dutch Party for Freedom (PVV), which is running on an anti-Islamic agenda, is set to gain most seats, almost 32 of them but that is far short of 76 required. The current Prime Minister Mark Rutte, the leader of the conservative VVD met with Mr. Wilders, leader of the PVV. As of now, it is not clear, whether they will form a coalition or not, but even if they do, their coalition of approximately 55 seats would still be short of a majority. Most of the other parties have rejected the idea of a coalition with PVV due to their strong anti-Islamic agenda. Other than these two, eight other parties are set to win 10 seats or more.

With most seats, the first option would be given to Mr. Wilders to form a government but if he fails, it would require almost six parties to form a coalition government including the VVD.

Even if the other parties succeed in forming a government, they would be under continuous attacks from PVV and hardliners. It is only fair to say that Netherlands is heading for a political limbo, likes of which are rare in history.