Possible coalitions and the digital economy

The Dutch have chosen. For the third time in a row, the VVD (liberal conservatives) emerged victorious, albeit with a considerable loss of seats. Explorer Edith Schippers is sounding out the parties about the configuration of the new coalition. She will need one more week than planned before reporting back to Parliament. Naturally, the initiative for forming a new coalition lies with the VVD as the largest party, and ‘winners’ CDA (Christian democrats), D66 (progressive liberals), and GroenLinks (greens).

Implications for the new economy

Departing from the political reality that emerged from the elections, Considerati has analysed the two most probable coalition scenarios its implications for businesses in the digital economy. Party positions on innovation, cybersecurity, privacy, business climate, digital economy, and Europe were the starting point for this exercise.

Delay of controversial bills

The process of forming a new government can easily take several months. All parties are wary for a hastily made deal, like the VVD­–PvdA agreement four years ago. As the budget is stable, and the economy on track, there is little pressure to rush negotiations.

Both the Lower House and Senate will determine in the coming weeks which bills are controversial (and not to be discussed until a new government has been formed). It is very likely that the Computercrime III bill and the new bill on the Intelligence and Security services bill will be delayed.

Curious about the similarities and differences of parties in the possible coalitions concerning the digital economy? Contact us.

For further analysis or advice on protecting your interests in the formation process, please contact Bart Pegge.