As right-leaning parties gain traction across Europe, veteran Dutch politician Frans Timmermans is calling for a robust and clear response from the left. In an interview with “Der Spiegel”, the former EU Commissioner and long-serving Foreign Minister criticized those who attribute complex societal challenges, from housing shortages to strained healthcare systems, to asylum seekers, arguing it misleads voters.
Timmermans is widely expected to lead a coalition of Social Democrats and Green parties in upcoming parliamentary elections this October, having previously attempted to secure the premiership in November 2023, when the Party for Freedom (PVV) led by Geert Wilders emerged as the strongest force.
He aims to counter what he describes as a politics fuelled by fear with a policy platform built on optimism and possibility. “We must demonstrate that dreams can still be realized, while the right wing chains people to their anxieties” Timmermans stated. He emphasized that democratic progress isn’t achieved through apocalyptic rhetoric but through tangible solutions, including a fairer distribution of income and a realistic migration policy that balances control and solidarity.
On security and defense, Timmermans advocates for greater European autonomy, noting that currently, nearly three-quarters of European defense spending is directed outside of the continent. He believes the ongoing threat from Russia necessitates a shift in priorities. “We need Europe. We must invest in Europe” he asserted, expressing a widespread sentiment within the European Union. He further urged a move away from prioritizing austerity in European budgetary policy, citing the recent decision by a German government previously led by the CDU, which committed hundreds of billions to defense and economic development, as a model for the Netherlands to follow.
Timmermans characterized the recent government headed by Wilders’ party as having “absolutely achieved nothing” contributing to alarmingly low levels of public trust in politics. He acknowledged the potency of the right wing’s ability to leverage feelings of a perceived loss of control amid widespread crises. “The emotional power of the right shouldn’t be underestimated” he warned, stressing the need to reassure citizens that moderate voices still represent their interests.
Ultimately, Timmermans is betting on reason and practicality to regain public faith. He expressed concern that an overreliance on emotions and a lack of actionable solutions would exacerbate political apathy and disillusionment. He stated his intention to avoid further escalating the emotional climate in favor of promoting concrete and achievable solutions.
