Outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has expressed his interest in becoming the next secretary-general of NATO, although he believes his chances of being selected for the position are small. In an interview with radio station Den Haag FM, Rutte stated that serving in such a role would allow him to contribute on the international stage in a time of significant global changes. However, he acknowledged the likelihood of a European woman being chosen for the job, considering the strong political support for it.
Rutte, who unexpectedly announced his departure from Dutch politics in July after resigning from his fourth cabinet, expressed uncertainty about his standing as a front-runner for the NATO role. He emphasized that he would not engage in a personal campaign to pursue the position. Jens Stoltenberg, the current secretary-general, will conclude his tenure in October 2024, having served in the position since 2014.
In July, Stoltenberg’s term was extended for a fourth time, as the alliance’s 31 member countries preferred to retain an experienced leader amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Before the decision to extend Stoltenberg’s tenure, Rutte was considered a strong candidate to succeed him; however, the Dutch Prime Minister declined the opportunity. While some NATO governments expressed the desire for the first female secretary-general, no consensus could be reached on a candidate.
Rutte holds the distinction of being the longest-serving prime minister in Dutch history. He will continue as a caretaker prime minister until a new government is formed after the November 22 elections. When asked about other international roles, Rutte stated that he has no interest in the “part-time job” of president of the European Council and does not belong to the right political family to be considered for president of the European Commission.
This news was reported by Bart Meijer and Andrew Gray, with editing by Mike Harrison.
