Ani Zalinyan Becomes the First Armenian Elected to the Dutch Parliament

Ani Zalinyan has made history by becoming the first Armenian member of the Dutch Parliament following the parliamentary elections in the Netherlands held on October 29. She won a seat as part of the GroenLinks–PvdA alliance, marking an important moment for both Dutch politics and the Armenian community in Europe.

Born on June 3, 1993, Zalinyan is an Armenian-born Dutch politician who has been active in local governance before entering national politics. Since 2022, she has served as a wethouder (alderman) in the municipality of Heemskerk, where she has been responsible for housing, spatial planning, climate adaptation, and environmental policy.

Her victory is a milestone not only for Armenians in the Netherlands but also for the broader Armenian diaspora. It shows the growing participation of Armenians in European political life and reflects their continued contributions to civic and community development across the continent.

Originally from Hoofddorp, Zalinyan has a professional background in law and public administration. She is known for her leadership and her commitment to making complex policy issues understandable and accessible to citizens.

Explaining her motivation to enter politics, Zalinyan said, “What drives me is the desire to build a society where everyone has the space to move forward. It starts with a solid foundation: an affordable home. That is why I entered politics and what I dedicate myself to every day as an alderman.”

Zalinyan’s election to the House of Representatives in 2025 stands as a powerful symbol of inclusion and representation, demonstrating how members of diverse backgrounds continue to shape Europe’s political landscape. Her work and presence in the Dutch Parliament are expected to strengthen both the connection between communities and the values of equality and opportunity that define modern Dutch society.

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