The leader of Nieuw Sociaal Contract (NSC), Nicolien van Vroonhoven, expressed her dismay and disbelief at Geert Wilders’ decision to withdraw from the coalition, potentially jeopardizing the future of her party. Van Vroonhoven had anticipated reaching an agreement with Wilders and was stunned by his actions, which she deemed “irresponsible.”

The collapse of the coalition, consisting of PVV, VVD, NSC, and BBB, poses a significant threat to NSC’s political survival. The party, which emerged as a prominent force in the November 2023 elections, now faces the possibility of fading into obscurity, with polls indicating a drastic reduction in its parliamentary seats.

The departure of founder and former party leader Pieter Omtzigt has further weakened NSC’s position. Voter research suggests that many who voted for NSC in 2023 did so primarily because of Omtzigt’s reputation and promise of good governance, rather than the party’s policies.

NSC has struggled to deliver on its promises of good governance, and internal conflicts have further damaged its image. The party’s involvement in the coalition with the PVV has alienated some voters, while its key policy initiatives remain unfulfilled.

With no clear successor to Omtzigt and limited appeal among voters, NSC faces an uphill battle to remain relevant. Van Vroonhoven initially considered a merger with CDA, which was rejected, and then proposed a minority cabinet without the PVV, though VVD prefers new elections.

Van Vroonhoven acknowledges the need for a new mandate from voters but recognizes that new elections could be detrimental to NSC. The party’s future hinges on a potential political miracle, and speculation remains about whether Pieter Omtzigt might return to politics to save his brainchild.