Impact of 'Dutch Trump' on Netherlands' politics could be significant for years to come

London

THE Netherlands, which boasts the fifth largest economy in the eurozone, kicked off its election this week and goes to the polls on March 15 in the next big test since Donald Trump's election and Brexit of whether anti-establishment forces will continue to make political headway. With the far-right leading in polls, the country - whose name reflects its low lying topography - will soon discover whether much of its longstanding, albeit now-fraying liberal political traditions are, now "under water" like much of its landmass.

Concern is growing at the fact that the populist Freedom Party, led by the so-called "Dutch Trump" Geert Wilders, could emerge - for the first time - as the largest single party. Mr Wilders, who was convicted last year of incitement to discrimination, advocates an array of controversial positions, including "de-Islamicising Europe" that have ostracised him from mainstream politicians in the country.