Volt Eemsdelta presents plans: "Dare to make new choices now."

According to Cody Rozema (25), number 3 on the list of candidates, this is what sets Volt apart: "Many parties don't dare to be bold. This results in election programmes full of generalities that everyone can agree with, but that are of no real use to anyone. We have opted for a clear vision, substantiated with facts, practical examples and real choices."

Deciding together as a common thread
The Volt Eemsdelta programme focuses on housing, livelihood security, democratic renewal, climate and young people, among other things, with one common thread: policy is not made for residents, but with residents. And that requires more than public consultation evenings without consequences.

Sanne Wagenvoorde (20), number 2 on the list, emphasises that, as far as Volt is concerned, participation does not stop with the decision-making process.

"For us, participation does not stop with the decision-making process. It is about continuing to listen, evaluate and provide feedback afterwards. This gives residents real ownership of their living environment and allows you to shape the municipality together as a community."

Plans in English and by post on request
It is striking that Volt Eemsdelta is the only party to publish its entire election programme in English. This is a conscious political choice, says party leader Cees van Ekelenburg (67).

"Eemsdelta has more than 2,100 international residents. These are not temporary guests, but people who live, work and contribute to our community here. Democracy is only credible if everyone has the opportunity to participate. Accessible information is the minimum basis for this." Volt also advocates free Dutch language courses for newcomers.

The party also offers the election programme in physical form. "The future may be digital, but that should never mean that people are excluded," says Cees. "Anyone who asks us for it on the street or by email will receive a physical copy of the election programme in the post. This way, people who are less digitally savvy can also familiarise themselves with our plans." A copy can be requested by emailing [email protected].

"Eemsdelta is so much more than Appingedam and Delfzijl"

Volt also emphasises that Eemsdelta is more than just its urban centres. Frederiek Wierenga (20), number 4 on the list and raised in Bierum, has seen this difference her entire life.

"For a long time, I noticed that villages like Bierum received less attention than the larger towns. That feeling still exists. Many residents feel distant from the administration and do not see their own lives reflected in the choices that are made. With Volt, we want to show that it is precisely the less visible voices that deserve a place at the table: to discuss housing, accessibility, opportunities and having a say in their own village."

The full election programme is available in two languages at voltnederland.org/groningen/ver…amma-eemsdelta.