# Dutch municipalities appointing child mayors

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20261006-dutch-municipalities-appointing-child-mayors
> Updated: 2026-10-20T22:53:13.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Dutch municipalities have been appointing child mayors to promote youth involvement in local democracy and represent youth interests.

In late September 2026, Nieuwegein appointed 10-year-old Aliya Asad, who aims to advocate for outdoor play and improved sports facilities. Simultaneously, Rozendaal installed 10-year-old Emma de Haan to foster inclusivity and connections between children and the elderly.

By early October 2026, further appointments were made in Waalre and Oldambt. In Waalre, 10-year-old Bex Welvaart was appointed following an election involving 14 candidates. In Oldambt, 10-year-old Liam Oldenburger was installed alongside the municipality’s first official children’s council, with a focus on advocating for school breakfasts, free fruit, and affordable sports.

In late October 2026, new initiatives emerged in Amstelveen and Aalsmeer, where children mayors Emy and Julyanah are focusing on combating bullying and raising awareness regarding online risks. Julyanah intends to organize a compliment competition for students in grades 7 and 8 to promote positive social interactions, with winning entries to be displayed at the town hall.

Additionally, in Waddinxveen, the children’s mayor, Nick, and a committee of 13 children are working to improve local amenities. Their efforts include advocating for healthier food options and more accessible playgrounds, specifically ensuring that children with disabilities can use local play areas.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-20: Dutch children mayors advocate for youth improvements

Children mayors in Amstelveen, Aalsmeer, and Waddinxveen are campaigning for anti-bullying measures, online safety, improved playground accessibility, and healthier food options.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dutch-children-mayors-advocate-for-youth-improvements

### 2026-10-06: Dutch municipalities appoint new child mayors

New child mayors Bex Welvaart in Waalre and Liam Oldenburger in Oldambt have been appointed to represent youth interests in their respective Dutch municipalities.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dutch-municipalities-appoint-new-child-mayors

### 2026-09-29: New child mayors appointed in Nieuwegein and Rozendaal

New child mayors Aliya Asad and Emma de Haan have been appointed in Nieuwegein and Rozendaal, respectively, to advocate for youth interests and community connection.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-child-mayors-appointed-in-nieuwegein-and-rozendaal

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Cite as: Dutch municipalities appointing child mayors. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20261006-dutch-municipalities-appointing-child-mayors