Today I say goodbye to this Chamber, a place that is so much more than just a political institution. It is the heart of our democracy, where ideas clash and collaborations arise. In this heart, I have been active since 2017. As party chair, as Minister, and for a shorter period as a member of parliament. The decision to say goodbye to this Chamber – and thus to a special and intensive period in my life – was difficult. Not least because I know how our chair thinks about it.

For me, politics is not just a matter of taking popular positions or saying what people want to hear. It is primarily about taking responsibility, even when that is difficult. Making choices, even if they do not always receive applause, but of which you know they are necessary for the future of the Netherlands. It means explaining, accounting, and sometimes disappointing. Because if we only sail on the waves of the whims of the day, we lose direction. But always from a connection with people. Here in The Hague, I have experienced how important it is to embrace change for a better future. That is something my heart will always cherish.

The responsibility to contribute to our society always accompanies me, in whatever role. But I now pass on my seat in this Chamber, for the Chamber deserves representatives who can commit themselves wholeheartedly to the Netherlands.

Our democracy is not a given. The values that make it strong – freedom, rule of law, and equality – are under pressure. It requires realism and courage to face this, but also to connect. Especially now, it is important that we continue to listen and work together on solutions. I am and remain optimistic. Because if one people is resilient, then we are. We Dutch have always shown that we can meet the challenges of our time – and I carry that confidence with me, even as I say goodbye.

‘The environment of man is his fellow man.’ A quote from Jules Deelder that is displayed at the social work company in Nunspeet. And that is exactly it. That is why I cherish the people around me, and it is especially those people that I will miss. The colleagues in the faction, the House, the wonderful people I have worked with, and with whom I have laughed so much.

And of course, all the fantastic staff who keep this house running and always support us warmly and lovingly. But also all the people who gave me their trust, with whom I was able to engage in conversation, those who disagreed with me, or were positively critical. Your involvement, critical questions, and stories have shaped and driven me.

Chair, thank you for the collaboration.

Wishing you all the best.