Paul Belien analyzes the rise of the new star of Dutch politics, Socialist Party leader Jan Marijnissen. He touches on some very interesting themes, although comparing the former maoist to Pat Buchanan may be somewhat confusing to outsiders. Belien's point is: the left has an equal ability to adopt some of the themes that are usually associated with some of Europe's right. Rejecting the EU, questioning foreign cultures and opting for an outdated form of protectionism can just as well be offered in a 'left' package. And that is also why mainstream parties are losing ground and why a Weimarization of European politics is hardly a far-fetched term.

And yes, religion. One reader - like Belien - has pointed out to me that the Socialist Party cleverly embraced religious themes and that this week's losers all took a secular stance. It may be too early to qualify all this as a decisive anti-establishment vote and a return to more traditional values, but there is a notable shift in attitudes. Depending on the election, it is something that both the new left and the new right are able to successfully plug into.