New NSC leader Van Vroonhoven vows stronger defense of party ideals at Arnhem congress

Nieuw Sociaal Contract’s (NSC) new leader, Nicolien van Vroonhoven, called on the party Saturday to more firmly defend its ideals and better promote its achievements during the members’ congress in Arnhem. The event also marked the farewell of the party’s founding figure, Pieter Omtzigt.

Van Vroonhoven stressed the need for NSC, which has existed for around a year and a half, to assert itself more boldly within the coalition government formed with PVV, VVD, and BBB. “We will need to flip certain switches,” she said. The party must also improve its communication of successes. “That aftercare is still missing from us.” Polls currently show NSC holding only a few seats. “We must dare to bite through at the right moments. Yes, I will have to stand firm, strong, and proud,” Van Vroonhoven said.

Despite current challenges, Van Vroonhoven expressed confidence the party will recover. “There is still a need for a different voice.” However, NSC voters feel the party has achieved little, according to a poll by the RTL Nieuwspanel. Six out of ten respondents believe the party should dissolve after this cabinet period. On this, Van Vroonhoven said, “If the members had wanted that, they should have taken the opportunity today. They could have stood up.”

Van Vroonhoven criticized the party leadership for insufficient attention to its membership. “We were so busy with politics, so busy with this coalition and keeping our heads above water that perhaps we have not given enough space and attention to our members.”

Looking ahead, the party plans to emphasize good governance, ensuring its survival, and increasing societal resilience. This resilience, Van Vroonhoven said, involves more than government protection. “Citizens must be resilient, not dependent, not vulnerable. They must be able to stand on their own feet.”

According to her, this resilience depends on people feeling connected to each other. “Identity is essential in this.” People need to know who they are, where they come from, and what their values and traditions are. “From the Remembrance of the Dead on Dam Square to ascension morning walks.”

Pieter Omtzigt delivered a nearly 45-minute farewell speech at the congress. He also emphasized that the party must “shout its successes louder from the rooftops.” Omtzigt, named NSC’s first honorary member, said he will remain active. “The ideals are not gone, but the energy is gone for now.”