Weekly political column by Edo van der Goot about Dutch politics and government formation.
The Dutch government announced new regulations for real estate agents and a four-point plan to improve regional public transport, including self-driving bus pilots. Meanwhile, coalition tensions rise as the VVD fears electoral backlash and the PRO party tests the cabinet's limits. For internationals, housing transparency and rural mobility are key takeaways.
The Dutch cabinet and PRO party are locked in a 'game of chicken' that could stall legislation on housing and immigration. Meanwhile, the housing minister steps in to regulate real estate agents after widespread complaints. For internationals, this means more transparency in house hunting but continued political uncertainty.
The Dutch cabinet is willing to make concessions to party PRO but wants to set the terms, leading to a 'game of chicken' over the budget. Meanwhile, Volt leader Laurens Dassen remains angry about an AI-generated laughter incident, adding instability. For expats, this could mean policy delays and uncertainty.