Experienced politicians throw in the towel en masse: worrisome phenomenon or opportunity for new perspectives?

The Dutch political landscape is preparing for a wave of change following the news that a series of experienced politicians announced their departure from the Lower House. With the upcoming elections on Nov. 22, 2023, the political arena will adapt to a new generation of politicians. While some experts warn of an imminent loss of institutional memory, others wonder whether this shift might actually present an opportunity for renewal and change.

"Institutional memory is getting shorter," noted SGP educator Menno de Bruyne, glancing at the drain of experienced politicians. University lecturer Simon Otjes also expressed his concerns: "In the first four years you get the hang of the profession, for example how and when to submit motions or amendments. With early departures, that experience cannot be used for long and thus the Chamber does not function at its best."

These concerns are understandable: experience and institutionalization are valuable components of the functioning of a parliamentary democracy. Experienced politicians such as Renske Leijten, Mahir Alkaya, Peter Kwint and Farid Azarkan contribute to the fluid functioning of the House of Representatives, and their departure will certainly be felt.

Still, it is worth considering that the departure of some "experienced upstarts" may not be as much of a loss as it might first appear. For example, politicians like Pieter Heerma and René Peters, both of the CDA, have not shown the necessary responsibility in the eyes of many to hold Prime Minister Mark Rutte accountable for accusations of lies, deceit and mismanagement.

Too often, these experienced politicians seemed to maintain the status quo rather than ask critical questions. Despite repeated accusations of deception and mismanagement, especially in connection with the Rutte III and Rutte IV cabinets, they seemed to let Rutte go unpunished. So, while we can regret the departure of some experienced politicians, it can also be seen as an opportunity for a breath of fresh air, an opportunity for the emergence of new voices willing to ask critical questions and hold power accountable.

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The concern expressed by The Telegraph and some "experts" is certainly legitimate. The loss of institutional memory and its potential impact on the functioning of the House of Representatives should not be taken lightly. But, at the same time, this development may also be an opportunity for renewal, for the emergence of new voices, for a greater willingness to challenge and hold power accountable. It will be interesting to see how this situation unfolds in the upcoming elections and beyond.