Internal divisions are surfacing within the VVD regarding potential collaboration with Geert Wilders’ PVV, with voices from the youth wing to veteran members expressing concerns. The crux of the issue lies in the PVV’s compatibility with liberal values and its perceived lack of reliable governance.

The JOVD, the VVD’s youth organization, has openly advocated against working with Wilders. Chairman Mauk Bresser cited the PVV’s “irresponsible” behavior, reliance on social media outbursts, and failure to present “mature, capable people” as reasons for their stance. They believe a new cabinet must address critical issues and that the PVV is not conducive to productive governance. The JOVD also questions why Dilan Yesilgöz is more critical of Frans Timmermans than Geert Wilders, seeing the Labour party as more reliable.

Further dissent comes from VVD veterans like Frans Weisglas and Ed Nijpels, who object to cooperation with Wilders on principle. Weisglas stated that “Liberalism and non-rule-of-law populism do not go together.” Nijpels views past collaboration as “one of the biggest mistakes in the history of the VVD.” Hilversum VVD councilor Haitske van de Linde has penned an open letter criticizing Yesilgöz’s framing of the debate as “solid versus unreliable,” deeming it “intellectually empty.” Van de Linde argues that the PVV’s program, including proposals like a “Koran ban,” is incompatible with liberal and humanist values.

Echoing these concerns, former group chairman Klaas Dijkhoff has urged Yesilgöz to prioritize the defense of democracy. He sees a growing divide between democratic and non-democratic forces and suggests that democratic parties may need to form “uncomfortable collaborations” to counter this trend.

Yesilgöz has yet to publicly address the question of potential cooperation with the PVV, stating she wants to discuss the matter internally first. The upcoming ‘Liberal Open Day’ in Nieuwegein will provide an opportunity for party leaders to engage with members on this critical issue. The party board intends to allow the members to decide.