Although Rutte’s coalition is a step forward, it lacks prized political capital. Infighting and the lack of a comprehensive policy on COVID-19 especially have damaged Dutch citizens’ trust to a great extent. That distrust is observed in the many anti-government demonstrations, often accompanied by violence on both sides, and several ministers having received death threats.

On Wednesday, the newly established formation, composed of the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), Democrats 66 (D66), Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) and the Christian Union (CU) presented its coalition agreement. Mark Rutte (VVD) is expected to be appointed Prime Minister for a fourth term.