Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

The Netherlands is set to inaugurate a novel cabinet led by D66 leader Rob Jetten on February 23, 2026, following months of complex negotiations after the general election on October 29, 2025. The incoming coalition will be a minority government comprised of D66, the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), and the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA).

The formation process began with the appointment of Wouter Koolmees as scout on November 4, 2025, tasked with exploring potential coalition options following the election results. Initial discussions were hampered by significant disagreements, notably the VVD’s reluctance to partner with GroenLinks-PvdA, and D66’s opposition to a coalition including both JA21 and the VVD. These early hurdles led to a period of exploratory talks guided by informateurs Sybrand Buma and later Rianne Letschert.

A key sticking point throughout the negotiations was D66 leader Rob Jetten’s firm stance against collaborating with JA21 and the VVD. In early December 2025, Jetten publicly stated that a coalition including these parties was “not a workable path,” asserting that a right-center government lacked sufficient support in both houses of parliament. This position followed criticism regarding his previous ambiguity on potential coalition partners.

Despite these challenges, D66, VVD, and CDA ultimately reached an agreement and presented their coalition plan on January 30, 2026. Rob Jetten was subsequently designated as the formateur, initiating the process of selecting ministers and state secretaries, which began on February 3, 2026. The composition of the House of Representatives following the 2025 election includes 26 seats for D66, 22 for VVD, 18 for CDA, and 9 for JA21, among other parties.

The incoming Jetten cabinet succeeds the previous Schoof cabinet, which was formed after a protracted cabinet formation process following the 2023-2024 elections and included the Party for Freedom (PVV), VVD, New Social Contract (NSC), and Farmer–Citizen Movement (BBB). Jetten is currently meeting with prospective cabinet members as the final preparations for the swearing-in ceremony proceed.

MONTREAL – On the 30th anniversary of a narrowly defeated referendum on sovereignty, renewed discussion of Quebec independence is gaining momentum within the province, fueled by a recent surge in support for the Parti Québécois (PQ). While a formal referendum is not currently scheduled, the possibility is being openly discussed by key political figures.

The 1995 referendum saw 50.6% of Quebecers vote against independence, with 49.4% voting in favor – a result described as “excruciatingly close” by observers. Thirty years later, separatist sentiment appears to be stirring again. Jean-François Lisée, a former PQ leader, predicted a decade ago that the independence movement would experience a resurgence, a prediction that appears increasingly prescient.

The core argument for Quebec independence rests on the assertion that Quebecers constitute a distinct nation with a unique culture, language, and history, and therefore possess the right to self-determination. Proponents advocate for the ability to choose between integration with another state, association with another state, or full independence, enabling the establishment of a sovereign Quebec with its own constitution.

A key consideration in any potential separation would be the economic implications. An independent Quebec would need to determine its currency, with options including retaining the Canadian dollar – which would mean relinquishing control over monetary policy to the Bank of Canada – or establishing a new currency. The division of Canada’s national debt and assets would similarly be a major point of negotiation, likely based on Quebec’s population share or historical federal contributions.

Trade relationships would also undergo significant change. The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (USMCA) would not automatically apply to an independent Quebec, necessitating new bilateral or trilateral negotiations to secure market access. Internal trade within Canada could be impacted by the introduction of customs procedures and tariffs, potentially affecting supply chains and consumer prices. Financial markets could experience initial uncertainty and potential capital flight.

The legal complexities of separation are substantial. A sovereign Quebec would require establishing a new sovereign state and redefining political, economic, and social relationships with the remaining Canadian provinces. This would necessitate extensive negotiations and the creation of legal frameworks to manage the division of assets, liabilities, and responsibilities.

As of today, the Canadian government has not issued a formal response to the renewed discussion of Quebec independence. No new referendum has been scheduled, and the federal government remains silent on the matter. The Parti Québécois has not yet announced a concrete plan for initiating a new referendum, but the issue remains central to their political platform.