As part of our Eindhoven election round-up, we present what parties stand for and their manifestos in a nutshell. Please note that this content is shared with us by the parties.
Eindhoven is no longer just a Dutch city. It has grown into an international innovation hub where students, researchers, entrepreneurs and families from all over the world come together. This diversity is not a side note; it is the engine of our progress. GroenLinks–PvdA stands for a green, fair and inclusive city where everyone can participate and have a sense of belonging from day one. Because Eindhoven thrives only when all its residents thrive.
Housing: a home should be within reach
For many internationals, the first challenge in Eindhoven is finding a place to live. Students, young professionals and families all experience the same housing shortage. GroenLinks–PvdA views housing as a basic right, not a profit model. That means investing in:
• thousands of additional homes;
• a strong share of affordable and social rental housing;
• sufficient, accessible student housing;
• stronger municipal control to counter speculation and excessive rents.
Eindhoven must remain livable and accessible for everyone, not only for those with the highest incomes, but also for people in essential professions, creatives, students, families, retirees, and those temporarily unable to work or contribute in economic terms. A city is strongest when it makes space for the full diversity of lives and circumstances.
Newcomers: participation and belonging from day one
Eindhoven is proudly international. New residents should feel welcome and not temporary or peripheral, but full members of our community; people who feel at home, know their neighbours and can build friendships and networks. GL-PvdA therefore invests in:
• participation and a sense of belonging from day one;
• accessible Dutch language education initiatives that help people connect in their neighbourhoods;
• safe and humane shelter for people fleeing war or persecution;
• an active, visible fight against discrimination and racism.
But participation is not only about policy. It is also about voice. We actively engage with the international community and believe representation should be more than symbolic. We invite involvement in local decision-making by organising input sessions on topics such as public space design and mobility, learning from best practices in other countries. We speak with international students about mental well-being and inclusion. And we regularly visit and actively participate in cultural and community events across the city: from Bladi Festival to Seú (the Caribbean harvest celebration), from Unity Festival of Lights to community talks and neighbourhood gatherings. We listen, we learn, and we bring those voices into the city council.
At a time of growing polarisation across Europe, GL_PvdA chooses connection. International residents, our new locals, are not guests, but fellow citizens shaping Eindhoven’s future.
Education: letting all languages shine
Our schools reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Brainport region, and that is a strength. GroenLinks–PvdA promotes:
• support for mother tongue education;
• recognition of multilingualism as an asset that strengthens confidence and learning outcomes;
• equal opportunities for every child, regardless of background or language.
Research and experience show that strong development in one’s first language supports the learning of Dutch and other languages. By actively promoting mother tongue education, we strengthen both identity and integration.
PvdA-GL also supports Eindhoven as a true student city, with accessible housing, sports facilities, and cultural spaces that help students at MBO, HBO, and university levels feel at home.
Climate leadership: a future-proof innovation region
As a hub of technology and innovation, Brainport must also lead in sustainability. We aim for a fossil-free, climate-neutral Eindhoven. Their priorities include:
• accelerating investments in clean energy;
• making homes and buildings more sustainable;
• tackling energy poverty;
• creating greener, climate-adaptive neighbourhoods.
With hotter summers and heavier rainfall, the need for climate action is urgent. A greener city is not only more beautiful. It is healthier, safer and more resilient. Climate ambition increasingly matters to international talent choosing where to live and work, and Eindhoven should set the standard.
Mobility: connected to Europe
International connectivity defines our region, yet sustainable alternatives to short-haul flights remain limited. PvdA-GL advocates for:
• two new railway stations;
• the introduction of a tram line;
• affordable and reliable public transport;
• stronger connections to international train networks.
A modern metropolitan region must be easily and sustainably connected to the rest of Europe and Eindhoven belongs in that network.
A strong social foundation: no one left behind
Rapid economic growth can deepen inequality. GroenLinks–PvdA refuses to accept a divided city. That is, they intend to invest in:
• reducing poverty and debt;
• accessible public services;
• strong neighbourhood facilities;
• affordable sports, culture and healthcare.
A successful innovation region needs social cohesion. When people feel supported and included, the entire city benefits.
A progressive choice for 2026
GroenLinks–PvdA combines environmental ambition with social justice. As the largest local party, we have delivered concrete results and offer the strongest guarantee of a progressive coalition that keeps Eindhoven open, sustainable, and inclusive. Eindhoven is a global city that still feels like home. Our mission is to keep it that way. For everyone who lives here, and for everyone who is just beginning to call it home.
GL-PvdA Eindhoven
