Dick Schoof: New Dutch Prime Minister of the Netherlands

Schoof's Appointment and Background

• Dick Schoof sworn in as new Prime Minister of the Netherlands on July 2, 2024
• Succeeds Mark Rutte after 14 years of his leadership
• Sworn in by King Willem-Alexander at Huis ten Bosch Palace in The Hague
• Leads a right-wing coalition government

About Schoof:

• • 67-year-old independent politician
  • Former head of Dutch Secret Service and counterterrorism office
  • Extensive experience in civil service and security roles
  • Appointed after complex seven-month negotiations following 2023 elections

Political Context and Government Formation

• Follows far-right leader Geert Wilders' electoral victory in November 2023
• Wilders stepped back from premiership to facilitate coalition talks
• New government promises to implement "strictest-ever" immigration policy
• Coalition formed after 223 days of negotiations
• Schoof's cabinet includes 15 ministers
• Aims to address issues like migration, social security, and national safety
• Schoof sees the biggest threat to the Netherlands coming from "the east"

International Reactions and Future Outlook

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Schoof on social media
• Modi expressed interest in advancing India-Netherlands partnership in areas such as:
  • Renewable energy
  • Water management
  • Agriculture
  • Mobility
  • New and emerging technologies
• Schoof's priorities as stated on social media:
  • Working towards a safe and just Netherlands
  • Ensuring social security for everyone
  • Getting a grip on migration
  • Promoting dialogue and clear decision-making
• Transition marks end of Rutte era, with Rutte expected to become NATO's next secretary-general