CDA at a Glance

Flag of Netherlands

Christen Democratisch Appèl

Christian Democratic Appeal

Political Compass
Conservative
Social
Market-oriented
Progressive
Stance on the EU
Anti-EU
Pro-EU
The Christen Democratisch Appèl (CDA) is a Christian democratic party in the Netherlands that sees itself as a bridge-builder of the political center. It is founded on Christian social values and emphasizes the importance of communities over purely state or individual action.

Values and Worldview

The foundation of the CDA rests on four pillars: public responsibility, social justice, solidarity, and responsible financial stewardship. Its understanding of humanity is shaped by the Christian belief that individuals are embedded in relationships with others. The party believes that the state and market should allow space for civil society engagement rather than dominating it. This 'principle of subsidiarity' views the family and local communities as the fundamental building blocks of society.

Policy Priorities

The CDA's agenda primarily targets the political center, families, and rural communities. The party advocates for strong support for voluntary associations, sustainable agriculture in harmony with nature, and sound fiscal policies. In social policy, it adheres to the principle of 'rights and responsibilities,' while maintaining traditionally conservative stances on ethical issues. Its target audience comprises voters who prioritize stability, security, and social cohesion.

Role in the Political System

Strategically, the CDA operates as a classic 'hinge party' in Dutch politics. Due to its centrist positioning, it often serves as the crucial link for forming coalitions across the political spectrum, from left to right. The party operates strictly within the institutions of the rule of law and is considered a responsible governing force. Its strategic challenge lies in balancing the preservation of Christian traditions with the necessary modernization in an increasingly secular society.

Key Policy Areas & Ideological Alignment

This chart illustrates the key issues for the party. Points further from the center indicate higher significance.

Core Positions & Policy Platforms

Stance 2024
Stance 2019

Economy & State

Wealth Redistribution
Pro-Redistribution
Market-Driven
Fiscal Policy
Public Investment
Austerity & Tax Cuts
Trade Policy
Free Trade
Protectionism

Society & Values

Civil Liberties vs. Security
Civil Liberties
Law & Order
Gender Equality Measures
Pro-Promotion
Against Promotion
LGBTQ+ Equality
Pro-Equality
Traditional Values
Same-Sex Marriage
Pro-Marriage
Against
Religion in Politics
Secularism
Religious Influence
Urban vs. Rural Priority
Focus on Urban Areas
Focus on Rural Areas

Environment & Climate

Environment vs. Economy: What's More Important?
Environmental Protection Over Economic Growth
Economic Growth Over Environmental Protection
Climate Action vs. Economic Growth
Climate Protection First
Economic Growth First

Migration & Integration

Immigration Policy
Open
Restrictive
Integration & Culture
Multiculturalism
Assimilation
Rights for Ethnic Minorities
Expand Rights
Equal Treatment Only
National Sovereignty
Cosmopolitan
Nationalist

Democracy & Institutions

Executive Power Distribution
Decentralized
Strong Executive
Judicial Independence
Independent
Executive Oversight
State Organization
Federalism
Centralism

Historical Election Results

CDA: Election Result Trends in Netherlands

History of Government Participation since 1945

Power Dynamics: Historical Government Roles
Leading Government
In Government
12

Total Cabinet Participations

Total Duration: 36 years • 10 months • 3 weeks • 5 days

8

Cabinets Led

Total Duration: 27 years • 3 weeks • 3 days

4

Coalition Participations

Total Duration: 9 years • 10 months • 2 days

42%

Time in Government

The party participated in government for 42% of the legislative period.

Jetten
2026
D66
VVD
CDA
Rutte VII
2022
VVD
D66
CDA
CU
Rutte V
2017
VVD
CDA
D66
CU
Rutte I
2010
VVD
CDA
Balkenende V
2007
CDA
PvdA
CU
Balkenende III
2003
CDA
VVD
D66
Balkenende I
2002
CDA
LPF
VVD
Lubbers III
1989
CDA
PvdA
Lubbers II
1986
CDA
VVD
Lubbers I
1982
CDA
VVD
Van Agt II
1981
CDA
PvdA
D66
Van Agt I
1977
CDA
VVD

Data Sources and Methodology

PolitPro

PolitPro bridges the gap between scientific research and current polling. We supplement leading datasets with our own proprietary research and algorithms to make complex political contexts tangible and accessible. Powered by AI.

Help Us Stay Independent

Your support helps shield PolitPro from the influence of lobbyists and political parties.

Give Feedback

Tell us how we can make PolitPro even better for you!

Found a Mistake?

Political data is constantly evolving. If you spot an error, please let us know. A brief reference to your source will help us verify and update the information.

ParlGov – Parliamentary Democracy Data

A comprehensive research database from the University of Bremen, documenting parties, elections, and governments for comparative analysis.

Additional Sources

Döring, Holger and Philip Manow. 2024. Parliaments and governments database (ParlGov).

CHES – Chapel Hill Expert Survey

The leading expert survey on party positions in Europe. Over 400 political scientists document party stances based on rigorous scientific criteria.

Additional Sources

Rovny, Jan, et al. “25 Years of Political Party Positions in Europe: The Chapel Hill Expert Survey, 1999-2024.”