The Netherlands has yet to elect its first female prime minister, underscoring the persistent underrepresentation of women in politics. On 9 June, Ruth Peetoom (CDA chairwoman) and Jet Bussemaker (Minister of Education, Culture and Science) led a compelling discussion at the Political Café in The Hague.
Local residents: Attendance was free for all—women and men alike.
In the Senate, House of Representatives, and government, women hold nearly 40% of seats. Provincial councils feature about one-third women, while municipal councils have just a quarter. These figures reveal a clear gap.
Why do women remain underrepresented at the local level? What prevents a female prime minister? Why are women often placed second on election lists yet rarely lead parties? Is it a glass ceiling, or do women gravitate toward safer careers?
Peetoom and Bussemaker compared the Netherlands to other countries, exploring barriers to women's political advancement.
Did you attend? Share your takeaways—we'd love to hear them!
