Rotterdam mayor, afraid of heights, to abseil Euromast if voter turnout tops 38.9%

Rotterdam Mayor Carola Schouten, who says she suffers from severe fear of heights, has pledged to abseil down the city’s Euromast tower if Rotterdam’s voter turnout for Wednesday’s municipal elections surpasses the 38.9 percent recorded in 2022, the lowest in the country.

Schouten shared the promise in a video on Instagram from the observation platform of the 185-meter landmark, which is currently under renovation. “I’ve promised that I would do everything to make the turnout higher,” she said.

“If you want to see me dangling here in the coming period, make sure you vote on March 18. Make sure to bring your voting pass and ID to ensure your voice is heard."

She acknowledged her fear, adding, “You should know that I have a huge fear of heights—in fact, I am a bit shaky even being up here.” But she added that she is prepared to descend from the 100-meter-high platform if turnout rises. “I’ve even got the stuff ready,” she said as a workman handed her the abseiling gear.

Rotterdam voters are choosing mayors and city council members in local elections. According to polls, Leefbaar Rotterdam, GroenLinks-PvdA, and D66 are vying for 8 to 9 seats each. Leefbaar Rotterdam held 10 seats in the previous council.