Breaking Records at Huis ten Bosch Palace (Image Credits: Cdn01.justjared.com)
The Hague – Rob Jetten took the oath of office as the Netherlands’ prime minister on February 23, becoming the nation’s youngest leader at 38 and its first openly gay head of government.[1]
Breaking Records at Huis ten Bosch Palace
King Willem-Alexander presided over the swearing-in ceremony at Huis ten Bosch Palace, where Jetten and his cabinet members affirmed their roles in a tradition dating back centuries.[2] The event capped months of negotiations following the October 2025 elections, where Jetten’s Democrats 66 party secured a narrow victory.[3]
Crowds gathered outside as the new Jetten I Cabinet, comprising 18 ministers and 10 state secretaries, stepped into their positions. This minority coalition draws from D66, the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy, and the Christian Democratic Alliance, reflecting a centrist approach amid a fragmented parliament.[1]
Jetten’s youth and orientation drew international attention, positioning the Netherlands alongside a select group of nations led by openly LGBTQ+ figures.
A Political Journey from Nijmegen to The Hague
Jetten first entered national politics in 2017 as a House of Representatives member for D66, quickly rising to party leadership in 2018 at age 31. He later served as Minister for Climate and Energy Policy, advocating for green initiatives like a national hydrogen network.[3]
His party’s strong showing in the 2025 vote propelled him to form the government after the previous administration under Dick Schoof collapsed after just 11 months. Observers noted Jetten’s evolution from early criticism as “Robot Jetten” to a confident campaigner.[4]
The coalition agreement outlines priorities such as bolstering defense spending and tightening asylum policies, signaling a pragmatic stance on pressing issues.
Family Support in the Spotlight
Amid the formalities, Jetten received visible backing from his fiancé, Nicolás Keenan, an Argentine field hockey Olympian who plays professionally in the Netherlands. The couple, engaged since November 2024, celebrated the occasion together, highlighting personal resilience alongside professional triumph.[5][4]
Keenan’s presence underscored the couple’s story, which began through social media and has since become a symbol of visibility in Dutch public life. Their relationship mirrors broader acceptance in a country long progressive on LGBTQ+ rights.
- Keenan: Two-time Olympian in field hockey for Argentina.
- Met Jetten: Via Instagram direct messages in 2022.
- Current role: Plays for Dutch club Klein Zwitserland.
Navigating a Minority Mandate
The new government lacks a parliamentary majority, requiring case-by-case alliances to pass legislation. Key pledges include €19 billion for defense and measures to reduce asylum applications processed outside Europe.[1]
Migration remains a flashpoint, having toppled prior coalitions, while fiscal plans face scrutiny from opposition figures concerned about impacts on everyday citizens. Jetten emphasized collaboration in a pre-ceremony message, vowing to focus on improvements over division.
Key Takeaways
- Jetten’s cabinet marks the first D66-led government and a youth milestone at 38 years old.
- As a minority setup, it prioritizes defense boosts and migration controls.
- His open relationship with Keenan reinforces the Netherlands’ progressive stance.
This appointment signals a fresh chapter for Dutch governance, blending tradition with trailblazing change. As Jetten steers through turbulent waters, his leadership could redefine coalition dynamics – what do you think lies ahead for the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments.