Centre Democrats (Netherlands)

The Centre Democrats (Dutch: Centrum Democraten, CD) were a far-right political party in the Netherlands. Founded in 1986 as a splinter group from the Centre Party (CP), the CD was led by Hans Janmaat. The party advocated for restrictive immigration policies, the preservation of Dutch culture, and a strong stance against multiculturalism.

The CD gained parliamentary representation in the 1989 general election, winning one seat. Its support peaked in the 1994 election with three seats in the House of Representatives. However, the party was consistently plagued by internal conflicts and controversies surrounding Janmaat's outspoken views and the party's association with extremist elements.

Throughout its existence, the Centre Democrats were often ostracized by other political parties and faced accusations of racism and xenophobia. Janmaat's speeches and publications were frequently criticized for inciting hatred and promoting discriminatory ideologies.

The party's support gradually declined in subsequent elections, and it ultimately lost its parliamentary representation in the 1998 general election. Following further internal struggles and declining support, the Centre Democrats were dissolved in 2002. The party's legacy remains controversial, representing a significant, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, expression of anti-immigration sentiment within Dutch politics.