The semi-annual Congress was dedicated to “education” and was packed with old and new members feeling encouraged by the recent growth of the party and its increasing popularity in the polls. D66 fought an unreservedly pro-European campaign in the last elections, tripling its EP seats and now being the third party in The Netherlands in recent polls.

According to Party Leader Alexander Pechtold the current government does not offer Dutch citizens an attractive perspective on the future of the country. The absence of inspiring leadership leads to increased conservatism and stagnation. Conversely, D66 puts forward its reform agenda by offering the Dutch electorate an outward-looking and open future vision. This progressive and social liberal alternative distinguishes itself vis-à-vis the inward oriented nationalism and political deadlock of the conservative parties, and the inability of other progressive parties to offer any response or alternative to this situation.

Alexander Pechtold put forward five key issues and focus areas of the D66 programme: the labour market; the housing market; knowledge, innovation & education; climate & energy; and democratic reform. Mr Pechtold explained these five factors in essence decide the quality of your life: your job, your house, your education, the future of the planet and the relation between citizen and the state. It is therefore essential that the political leadership takes responsibility for a different and more comprehensive approach to achieve progress and opportunity in these areas.

More pictures: http://www.jrfroling.nl/d66njcongres2009/