Following the recent municipal elections in Eindhoven, coalition scout (informateur) Mary Fiers has recommended a coalition between PRO, CDA, and D66. Fiers was appointed to the role on 24 March on behalf of PRO, the city’s largest party and a merger of GroenLinks and PvdA.
After exploring various options, Fiers concluded that a partnership between these three parties carries broad support. Together, they hold nearly two-thirds of the seats in the local council, which Fiers described as a stable foundation for the city government.
The parties have agreed that the next four years should focus on executing existing plans rather than introducing a backlog of new policies. Key priorities include housing construction, improved accessibility, and ensuring neighbourhoods remain safe, healthy, and liveable. Other shared goals include strengthening the social fabric, reducing poverty, expanding green spaces, and investing in social and cultural facilities. The parties also highlighted the importance of public trust, resident involvement, and regional cooperation.
In her report, Fiers suggested that the substantial majority held by these parties should lead to a new style of governance. She proposed a fresh start for the upcoming administrative period, moving away from simply maintaining the status quo. Her advice includes concrete steps on how to better incorporate input from all parties within the council.
Fiers recommended creating an agreement on main policy points rather than a rigid, detailed contract. This approach would allow the new municipal executive to adapt to changing circumstances. She also urged the future leaders to involve stakeholders regularly to ensure political goals remain feasible. Finally, Fiers called for maximum transparency throughout the formation process, with regular public updates on its progress.
NEWS BRAINPORT
