Christian Union (Netherlands)
The Christian Union (ChristenUnie, CU) is a Christian-democratic political party in the Netherlands. It was formed in 2000 through the merger of two smaller Protestant parties: the Reformed Political League (Gereformeerd Politiek Verbond, GPV) and the Reformatory Political Federation (Reformatorische Politieke Federatie, RPF).
The party's ideology is rooted in Reformed Protestantism and emphasizes biblical principles in public life. Key policy positions include strong family values, social justice, environmental stewardship, and international development. The Christian Union advocates for a sustainable economy, improved healthcare, and a fair distribution of wealth. They often stress the importance of ethical considerations in technological advancements and societal changes.
In the Dutch political landscape, the Christian Union is generally considered a centrist party with a strong social conscience. They often seek to bridge the gap between more secular and more conservative viewpoints. The party has participated in various coalition governments, including the fourth Rutte cabinet (2022-2023). Their political influence often lies in their ability to negotiate compromises on ethical and social issues.