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On this page we address some questions about our new party and its uniqueness as part of a pan-European movement.
Why is MERA25 launched now in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands needs a new political force that dares to connect democracy, social justice, and climate justice beyond national borders. Across Europe, citizens are losing trust in ‘politics as usual’. MERA25 wants to bring hope and participation back into democracy, by giving people a real voice again in their cities, in their countries, and in Europe.
What is the relationship between MERA25 and DiEM25?
DiEM25 is a pan-European movement founded by economist and former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis and others in 2016. Its mission: to democratize Europe before it disintegrates.
MERA25 is the electoral wing of DiEM25. Since European law does not allow transnational parties, MERA25 is being established in each country as a national branch of one common European project.
MERA25 Netherlands is therefore the Dutch branch of this pan-European democratic movement.
Do I have to become a member of DiEM25 to join MERA25 Netherlands?
When you join MERA25 Netherlands, you automatically become part of the DiEM25 movement. DiEM25 provides the European framework — ideas, policies, and cooperation with our sister parties in Germany, Greece, Italy, and other countries.
So, in short: one movement, one membership, two levels; European and national. Join MERA25 Netherlands here.
I’m already a member of DiEM25. Do I automatically become a member of MERA25 Netherlands?
No. If you are already a DiEM25 member, you can join MERA25 Netherlands easily at mera25.nl/join. Membership is open to all DiEM25 members.
Do I have to pay separate membership fees for DiEM25 and MERA25?
Yes. The MERA25s are national and have their own bank accounts on which they do their fundraising. MERA25 is the electoral wing of DiEM25 but legally a separate entity.
However, you can request an exception for the DiEM25 membership fee, if your budget requires.
What does MERA25 stand for?
“MERA” means “day” in Greek, just as “DIEM” means “day” in Latin (as in Carpe diem – “seize the day”).
All DiEM25 parties carry the name MERA25 to symbolize that together we form one pan-European movement for a new day in European politics.
What does it mean that MERA25 is a pan-European party?
It means that MERA25 is not just a collection of national parties, but a coordinated political project across Europe. Our national branches share the same values, principles, and core policies; from democracy and transparency to social and climate justice.
We act locally, but we think and decide collectively at the European level.
Do I need to speak Dutch to become a member?
No. MERA25 Netherlands is an inclusive and multilingual community.
We hold meetings and online sessions in both Dutch and English, and switch flexibly depending on who is present. Everyone who supports our values – regardless of language or background – is welcome to participate.
How is MERA25 funded?
We believe political independence begins with financial independence.
MERA25 is financed through small member contributions and donations, not through large corporate sponsors or opaque lobbying networks.
What are MERA25’s core values?
Our compass is built around five principles:
Democracy: real participation, not just representation.
Justice: social, economic, gender, and climate justice
Transparency: in government, corporations, and media.
Solidarity: with people across borders.
Freedom: from fear, poverty, and authoritarianism.
How can I get involved?
You can:
- Become a member and participate in national and local meetings.
- Join and start a local collective near you.
- Take part in MERA Engage, our monthly online gatherings for members and supporters.
- Contribute to working groups on topics such as climate, democracy, economy, or culture.
Visit www.mera25.nl/join to get started.
Do you have more questions? Send us an email to info@mera25.nl and we’ll be happy to answer.