The PvdA and GroenLinks parties are set to merge into a new people’s party by 2026, with plans to jointly contest upcoming elections. A party congress on June 21st will address the details of this merger, including the party’s principles, political program, and member involvement.

The congress aims to determine the direction of the new GroenLinks-PvdA party. Key questions include linking climate goals with social justice, involving members in political issues, connecting with social organizations, and increasing member influence in candidate selection.

Younger members of both parties have formed movements like RoodGroen and De Partij is Van Ons, advocating for collaboration and direct member influence. These movements are supported by experienced former politicians who believe a younger generation should lead the new party.

The author asks if the party boards will put the design, profile, and program of the new people’s party in the hands of a younger generation. The upcoming election campaign presents an opportunity to showcase this new generation.

Frans Timmermans is likely to be the leading candidate, and is expected to promote new, young faces within the party. The goal is to present the new party as innovative and hopeful, avoiding the perception of being simply a rebranded version of the old parties.