Antwerp has officially welcomed its new mayor, Els van Doesburg, marking her as the first Dutch individual to hold this significant position. Van Doesburg, who made her way through the political ranks, takes over the role from Bart De Wever, who recently ascended to the position of Prime Minister. With this transition, Antwerp not only gains new leadership but also embraces the potential changes it might bring to the city.
Born and raised near Utrecht, the 35-year-old Van Doesburg spent the early years of her life living in Soest before moving to Schilde, where her parents established a chocolate factory. She pursued her education at the University of Antwerp, graduating with a degree in political science, and chose to remain in the city she now leads. Her political career began when she joined the N-VA party, initially serving as a parliamentary assistant before rising to the municipal council.
Since 2018, Van Doesburg has been actively involved as part of the N-VA faction within the Antwerp city council. Her notable political engagement led to her appointment as Alderman for Housing, Urban Maintenance, and Health, where she made headlines for her proactive stance on local issues, including orchestrations surrounding the significant hospital merger, which took place on July 1, 2024. "Those fat sacks think the little elves will come clean up their waste," she previously remarked, shining light on the serious concerns of littering within the city. This passionate approach conveyed her commitment to making Antwerp cleaner and more livable.
During the municipal elections held on October 13, 2024, van Doesburg demonstrated her voter appeal. Although trailing behind De Wever, who garnered 59,309 preference votes, she secured 13,045 votes, the third most of any politician, surpassing her party colleagues. This impressive support signaled her readiness for the mayoral role. Following De Wever's elevation, it was seen as only logical for her to step up to lead the city.
Officially sworn in as the new 'burgermoeder' of Antwerp, Van Doesburg is now one of only three women to ascend to this role, following the legacies of Mathilde Schroyens and Leona Detiège. Her partner, Peter De Roover, currently serves as the President of the Chamber and is expecting their first child. Their personal and professional paths have intertwined significantly, showcasing the dynamic nature of their relationship within the political sphere.
With her previous role focusing on healthcare issues, Van Doesburg retains oversight of the hospital group ZAS, which is integral to Antwerp's health services. Meanwhile, other responsibilities are delegated to fellow party member Nathalie van Baren, taking over social affairs and senior care, whilst Ken Casier will manage Urban and Neighborhood Maintenance.
Van Doesburg's elevation to mayor signifies not just personal achievement but also symbolically reflects on change within the close-knit political fabric of Antwerp where foundational traditions meet new beginnings. The citizens of Antwerp await her initiatives carefully planned to navigate the city through both challenges and opportunities, strengthening community ties and enhancing local governance under her guidance.
Reflecting on her new responsibilities, Van Doesburg has openly stated, "I always believed our city needs someone who can bridge the past and the future of Antwerp," emphasizing her intention to unite the diverse aspects of the community and propel it forward. Undoubtedly, her leadership will be watched closely as she embarks on this significant chapter for herself and for the city.
Pledging to prioritize the city's welfare and continuous improvement, Van Doesburg's tenure opens opportunities for innovative policies and community engagement, aiming to both address pressing issues and celebrate Antwerp's unique culture and heritage. The road may be filled with both challenges and triumphs, but with her commanding responsibilities now firmly instilled, the city of Antwerp stands at the brink of change under her new administration.