The VVD (People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy) is facing growing internal dissent over its embrace of populist rhetoric and its approach to potential coalition partners. Critical members are considering motions to curb populism at the upcoming party congress this Saturday in Utrecht. This internal conflict highlights a broader debate within the party about its core liberal principles and its stance on cooperation with both the radical right and center-left parties.

Party leader Dilan Yesilgöz’s recent exclusion of the PVV (Party for Freedom) as a coalition partner has not fully quelled the tensions. While some see this as a positive step, others argue that Yesilgöz’s reasoning, which focuses on Geert Wilders’ leadership rather than the PVV’s anti-democratic tendencies, fails to address the underlying concerns about the party’s direction.

Critics within the VVD are voicing concerns about a perceived shift away from liberal values and towards a more right-wing, populist agenda. Haitske van der Linde, a VVD municipal council member, criticized the party’s “fast-food politics” and lack of a “moral compass” in an open letter. Former party leader Klaas Dijkhoff has also suggested that the VVD should consider forming an alliance with GroenLinks-PvdA (GreenLeft-Labour Party) after the next elections.

The debate within the VVD reflects broader concerns about political polarization and the influence of radical right-wing movements. Some members fear that the party’s embrace of populist tactics and its demonization of center-left parties could lead to a situation similar to that in the United States, where political cooperation between Republicans and Democrats has become nearly impossible.

The VVD’s approach to the migration issue is a key point of contention. Critics argue that the party’s “populist” rhetoric on migration, characterized by exaggerations and fabrications, is inconsistent with its purported commitment to governing responsibly.

Despite the growing dissent, it remains to be seen whether the internal opposition will be able to significantly alter the VVD’s course. The party leadership appears to be resisting efforts to challenge its current direction, and some key figures, such as Klaas Dijkhoff, seem satisfied with Yesilgöz’s decision to exclude the PVV.