The new cabinet

The Netherlands [ENA] Jetten Cabinet Officially Sworn In at Huis ten Bosch Palace The Netherlands has had a new government since 23 February 2026. The Jetten cabinet was officially sworn in by the King at Huis ten Bosch Palace, marking the formal start of the new administration. The coalition consists of D66, VVD and CDA and includes 18 ministers and 10 state secretaries. D66 holds 7 ministerial posts and 3 state secretary positions.

The VVD has 6 ministers and 3 state secretaries. The CDA is represented by 5 ministers and 3 state secretaries. State Secretary Palmen is not affiliated with any political party. With the appointment of Rob Jetten, the Netherlands makes political history. At 38 years old, he is the youngest prime minister ever and the first openly gay prime minister in Dutch history. LGBTQ organizations welcomed the development, describing it as an important step toward equality, while also emphasizing that continued progress remains necessary.

Outgoing Prime Minister Dick Schoof handed over office to Jetten and addressed the nation in a video message. He described the premiership as “not the easiest job, but certainly the most enjoyable and interesting” of his career. The new cabinet has outlined an ambitious policy agenda. The minimum age for purchasing cigarettes and vapes will increase to 21. Additional rental housing will be developed for low income households, and students will receive mandatory internship compensation. Further investments will be made in defense. One and a half billion euros will be allocated to education, while 20 billion euros will be reserved for nitrogen reduction measures.

At the same time, the government has announced spending cuts. Unemployment benefits will be limited to one year, and the healthcare deductible will rise from 385 euros to 460 euros. The Jetten cabinet is a minority government and does not hold a parliamentary majority. For each legislative proposal it will need to secure support from other parties. Whether it can consistently do so remains to be seen.