Femke Wiersma: From Navy Sailor to Dutch Agriculture Minister

Femke Marije Wiersma, born December 29, 1984, is a Dutch politician currently serving as a member of the House of Representatives. She previously held the position of Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature in the Schoof cabinet from July 2024 to February 2026, and prior to that, was a member of the Provincial Executive of Friesland. Her career path is diverse, ranging from service in the Royal Netherlands Navy to a role as an agricultural lobbyist and civil servant.

Early Life and Military Service

Wiersma was born in Dokkum, Friesland. Following her parents’ divorce a year after her birth, she was raised by her mother. She developed an early interest in animals, caring for horses during her childhood. Wiersma’s education included attending mavo and havo/vwo levels in Dokkum.

In 2002, Wiersma joined the Royal Netherlands Navy, serving as a sailor aboard the HNLMS Jacob van Heemskerck in the Mediterranean Sea. She was later stationed at a navy base in Texel before leaving military service in 2006.

Career in Social Perform and Local Government

After completing her training in social work in 2007, Wiersma began working for the Dantumadiel and Dongeradeel municipalities in 2008. Her role involved assessing citizens’ eligibility for municipal support programs as a care consultant.

Political Career

Wiersma became involved with the Farmer–Citizen Movement (BBB) in 2019. She was a member of the Provincial Executive of Friesland from July 19, 2023, until July 2, 2024, before being appointed as Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature in the Schoof cabinet. She served in this ministerial role until February 22, 2026. Currently, she is a member of the House of Representatives, having assumed office on November 12, 2025.

Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, under Wiersma’s leadership, focused on sustainable food production and the preservation of the natural environment. The Ministry aims to ensure access to safe, sustainably produced food for current and future generations, while also maintaining the integrity of conservation areas and rural landscapes [Government.nl].

Personal Life

Wiersma was married to Gijsbert Bakhuisen in 2016, but they divorced in 2019. She is a mother of four children.

Key Takeaways

• Femke Wiersma has had a varied career, including military service, social work, and local government.
• She is a member of the Farmer–Citizen Movement (BBB) and has held both provincial and national-level positions.
• As Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, she prioritized sustainable food production and environmental conservation.