The Netherlands

Abstract

Abstract Background While the literature on the relationship between populist radical right (PRR) parties and public health is still relatively scarce, early evidence suggests that PRR parties and their exclusionary policy agenda could be a threat to population health and health equity. The aim of this case study is to take a closer look at the standpoints and influence of the Dutch Party for Freedom (PVV) on national health and healthcare policies. The PVV is considered the main PRR party in the Netherlands and has been part of the 2010-2012 center-right coalition government. Methods This case study was informed by various information sources including academic literature, publicly available data, party manifestos and other statements issued by the PVV, coalition agreements, newspaper articles and interviews. Results Two key characteristics of PRR parties can be identified in relation to the PVV's standpoints on health and healthcare: authoritarianism (believing in the value of obeying and valuing authority) and nativism (believing that there is an ethnically united people with a territory). This is, for example, exemplified through strong support for the expansion of home and elderly care, while simultaneously opposing free, non-acute healthcare for refugees and asylum seekers who have not (yet) financially contributed to the healthcare system. Conclusions Health and healthcare are generally not priority issues for the PVV, whose political agenda tends to focus on immigration and law and order. While the party takes a leftist position on some aspects of the healthcare system, a nativist rhetoric remains present.