The Netherlands’ fragmented political landscape has once again underscored the central role of digital campaigning. Data-driven targeting, influencer content, and AI-assisted messaging shaped debates on housing, migration, and the economy, while platform algorithms determined which narratives reached which audiences.

The liberal-progressive D66, led by Rob Jetten, narrowly edged out Geert Wilders’ far-right PVV in a tight race, each securing 26 seats. The PVV relied on targeted online mobilisation, while left-wing and centrist parties focused on progressive themes with smaller digital footprints.

New EU rules on political advertising added constraints, and disinformation remained a persistent factor. In a coalition-based system, digital strategy can drive engagement, but coalition dynamics ultimately decide political outcomes.

This webinar unpacked these dynamics and discuss what they reveal about the evolving landscape of European political campaigning.

Moderation:
Josef Lentsch (Partisan)

Speaker(s):
Mark Thiessen (Meute)
Sam Lockwood (SmartRaise)