At a moment when social inequality is deepening, democratic trust is eroding, and scapegoating politics is increasingly normalised, MERA25 Netherlands is taking a decisive step into electoral politics.
In March 2026, MERA25 Netherlands will contest the municipal elections in Leeuwarden. This will be the first electoral participation of MERA25 Netherlands, the Dutch electoral wing of the pan-European movement DiEM25.
Earlier this year, DiEM25 members in the Netherlands committed to building a political vehicle that could bring the movement’s core values – democracy, solidarity, peace, and dignity – into local institutions. After months of grassroots organising, MERA25 Netherlands was officially registered as a political party in July.
True to DiEM25’s democratic and pan-European ethos, the candidacy of Ilse Terheggen and Rienk Jelte Aalbers, along with their municipal manifesto for Leeuwarden, was approved through an All Member Vote by DiEM25 members across Europe.
Meet the candidates
Ilse Terheggen studied law and is a local activist, volunteer, and musician. She is standing because she’s ready to change politics with MERA25!
“I want to run for MERA25 because I believe that the basis of democracy starts with the people, from a strong, inclusive sense of community. I want to connect as many perspectives as possible, and I believe in the power of diversity and mutual aid.”
Read more about Ilse here.
Rienk Jelte Aalbers is a teacher, creative and musician from Leeuwarden. He is standing because he’s motivated and enthusiastic to put his communicative skills and his creative plans to good use in the Leeuwarden campaign.
“We need more noncommercial places where citizens can come together to enjoy each other’s company and creativity. There was a call for help to preserve a local cultural podium and oldest dance hall in Leeuwarden in 2019 when I engaged in local politics.”
Read more about Rienk here.
A programme rooted in everyday life
Ilse and Rienk are standing because they believe local politics should start from people’s lived experiences, not from abstract targets or budget spreadsheets. Their programme grows out of everyday conversations in neighbourhoods and villages across Leeuwarden.
Democracy starts with listening
Ilse and Rienk want residents to have a real say in decisions that shape their lives. They argue that current participation mechanisms often frustrate rather than empower people. Their proposal is clear: citizen assemblies, accessible dialogue, and forms of deliberative democracy that give neighbourhoods genuine influence.
Basic needs for dignified life
For Ilse and Rienk, housing is not a market commodity but a basic right. With long waiting lists, a shortage of affordable homes, and around 15% of residents living below the poverty line, they want the municipality to act decisively on housing, poverty reduction, and income security.
Culture and social connections
Ilse and Rienk want a city where everyone has places to meet, create, and belong. They support sustained investment in social welfare, non-commercial cultural spaces, youth facilities, and resident initiatives that already strengthen communities but are currently underfunded.
Read the full manifesto here and learn more about MERA25’s commitment to democracy, security of livelihood, and social justice. You can support our efforts by joining MERA25. For questions, suggestions and volunteering, send an email to [email protected].
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