Internal tensions are rising within the VVD as critical members contemplate motions to curb populism at the upcoming party congress. This follows concerns about the party’s right-wing direction and potential shift away from core liberal values.
Dilan Yesilgöz, the party leader, faces criticism for her approach to politics, particularly regarding the PVV and GroenLinks-PvdA. Critics argue she is exaggerating differences and embracing a populist stance that could lead to further polarization.
The core issue is whether the VVD should explicitly embrace democracy and permanently renounce the PVV as a coalition partner. Some members worry that the current trajectory mirrors the American political landscape, where extreme polarization has made cooperation difficult.
Haitske van der Linde, a VVD municipal council member, expressed concerns about the party’s “moral compass” and the use of catchy slogans over substantive solutions. She deemed the current right-wing course as “intellectually empty.”
Former party leader Klaas Dijkhoff suggested an alliance with GroenLinks-PvdA, highlighting the divide between democratic and undemocratic parties. This contrasts with Yesilgöz’s critique of GroenLinks-PvdA, accusing them of “left-wing radicalism” and anti-Semitism.
While Yesilgöz has stated that she will exclude the PVV as a coalition partner, her reasoning is based on difficulties working with Geert Wilders rather than on anti-democratic tendencies. She still agrees with the content of Wilders’ ten-point plan.
The VVD’s current focus on migration, often presented with exaggerations and caricatures, raises concerns about whether the party genuinely wants to govern responsibly. Yesilgöz references former leader Frits Bolkestein to justify the party’s stance on migration, but critics point out that Bolkestein advised against collaborating with the PVV and was not anti-Islam.
Despite the internal debate, some members believe excluding the PVV is sufficient, potentially stifling further discussion about the party’s direction. The question remains whether true liberals within the VVD will raise their voices at the congress.