The Power of Dissent: Understanding Voter Concerns Ahead of the Elections
June 7, 2024
As the elections approach rapidly, it is worth noting the importance of understanding and engaging with the democratic process. Which elections are we talking about? The United States will hold its presidential elections in November 2024, and Curaçao will have its elections in March 2025. However, I think most people are not focused on the upcoming elections. They seem too far away for many, especially when about 70% of the population struggles to survive daily.
However, a small group, including myself, begins to ponder: who will people vote for and why? In the Vrij Nederland, there is an article about how Dutch voters cast their ballots on November 22, 2022, at least according to analysts. There is an opinion that the PVV (Partij voor de Vrijheid) voter is angry and scared and needs attention and care (van Keken & Lebbing, 2024). The article states that commentators and analysts are myopic, fixating on political cynicism as a new phenomenon after each election.
There is a perception that the left-wing political elite has alienated the commoner. However, this perception is an echo from twenty years ago. Almost a quarter of the working middle group floats between parties, and it is on this floating vote that the PVV focussed. The PVV is an anti-Islam and anti-immigration party! However, PVV voters want to tell us something different, say researchers in unison. However, it is patronizing to think the PVV voter wants something else, as if a quarter of the Dutch population wanted to vote for another party. PVV voters are everywhere, in cities and rural areas, rich and poor, often with more practical education, defying any stereotype.
Understanding and engaging with the concerns of diverse voter bases is not just important; it is crucial. Democracy thrives on dissent and diverse opinions. As the elections draw near, we must shift our focus to listening and addressing the real issues that hold significance for people.
Miguel Goede
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