Carola Schouten nominated for mayor of Rotterdam; Third female mayor of large Dutch city
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Loading... - Julia Gibson
- 05 Jul 2024
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Carola Schouten, a former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Poverty Policy, Participation, and Pension in the Netherlands, has been nominated by the Rotterdam city council to become the city's next mayor. If confirmed, she will be the first female mayor of Rotterdam and the third female mayor of a large Dutch city, following Femke Halsema in Amsterdam and Sharon Dijksma in Utrecht.
Schouten has deep roots in Rotterdam, having lived in the city's Spangen neighborhood for 30 years and studied at Erasmus University Rotterdam. The city council cited her as the ideal candidate for the role, emphasizing her approachability, ability to connect with residents, and her clear vision for the city's future. They praised her talent for fostering dialogue and ensuring that all voices are heard, even during times of tension.
The nomination now awaits approval from King Willem-Alexander and the Minister of Home Affairs and Kingdom Relations, following which Schouten will undergo an interview and background screening. If confirmed, she is set to be sworn in as Rotterdam's mayor on October 10.
Former Housing Minister Hugo de Jonge, also considered for the position, expressed his support for Schouten's nomination, stating that while he would have liked to be chosen himself, he believes Rotterdam will be in good hands with her leadership.
