Mark Rutte Steps Down After 13 Years as Dutch Prime Minister

After 13 years of service as Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte announced his retirement from politics on Monday following the collapse of his coalition government. Nicknamed “Teflon Mark” for his ability to survive numerous scandals, Rutte is the European Union’s second-longest-serving leader after Hungary’s Viktor Orban.

Rutte had been expected to seek a fifth term in the elections this autumn, but instead chose to bow out after the coalition government fell apart due to a disagreement over asylum policy. In a speech to parliament, Rutte explained that his motivations were driven solely by the best interests of the Netherlands.

He told reporters that it was an emotional moment for him, but that he felt good about passing the baton. Politicians from all parties paid tribute to Rutte and his achievements, but eyes were already turned to the post-Rutte era. Of particular interest was the Farmer-Citizen Movement (BBB), a protest party of Dutch farmers that recently had success in the senate elections.

BBB leader Caroline van der Plas said she was “very surprised” by Rutte’s decision but that it was “very wise”. The VVD party, of which Rutte is a member, announced that it would choose a new leader this week ahead of the elections, with Turkish-born Justice Minister Dilan Yesilgoz and VVD parliamentary group leader Sophie Hermans being the frontrunners.

Rutte's departure brings to an end an era of stability and economic growth, but also of hardline stances on issues such as bailouts and the Ukraine crisis. Though his legacy will be complex, he has left an indelible mark on the Netherlands and the European Union.