Rob Jetten scored a victory over populism in the Netherlands – but it’s a fragile win

Lessons for liberals? A charismatic leader helped to oust far-right firebrand Geert Wilders. Just don’t mistake this for Europe’s progressive surgeDon’t get This Is Europe delivered to your inbox? Sign up hereSo how do you beat the populist far right? Judging by the joyous reaction to D66’s victory in last week’s Dutch elections, the progressive-liberal party – and in particular its infectiously upbeat young leader, Rob Jetten – have discovered the secret.Although official results are not due until Friday, Jetten on Tuesday appointed a “scout” to sound out possible coalition partners after besting Geert Wilders’ anti-immigration Freedom party (PVV) by just 28,400 votes, out of more than 10m cast. Continue reading...