Netherlands Forms New Coalition Government Under Rob Jetten

The Netherlands is set to inaugurate a new coalition government led by Prime Minister Rob Jetten of the Democrats 66 (D66) party on February 23, 2026. The government will be a collaboration between D66, the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), and the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA).

Cabinet Composition

The incoming Jetten I Cabinet will consist of 28 members: 18 ministers and 10 state secretaries . As of February 22, 2026, two D66 state secretary roles – for Justice and for Finance – remain pending.

Key Ministerial Appointments

• Prime Minister and General Affairs: Rob Jetten (D66)
• Foreign Affairs: Tom Berendsen (CDA)
• Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation: Sjoerd Sjoerdsma (D66)
• Justice and Safety: David van Weel (VVD)
• Interior and Kingdom Relations: Pieter Heerma (CDA)
• Housing and Spatial Planning: Elanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan (D66)
• Education, Culture, and Science: Rianne Letschert (D66)
• Finance: Eelco Heinen (VVD)
• Defense: Dilan Yesilgöz (VVD)

Pending Appointments

The appointments for the D66 State Secretaries for Justice (legal protection and prison system) and Finance are still to be announced .

Coalition Dynamics

The coalition government represents a centre to centre-right alignment in Dutch politics . With a combined total of 66 seats in the legislature, the government will operate as a minority government, presenting challenges in passing legislation.

Formation Process

The formation of the Jetten cabinet followed the 2025 general election . The final report outlining the tasks of the cabinet was submitted to the Chamber President Van Campen recently .

Looking Ahead

The Jetten cabinet faces a significant agenda, including navigating complex issues such as housing shortages, the nitrogen crisis, and economic challenges. The success of the coalition will depend on its ability to build consensus and secure support from other parties in the Dutch parliament.