Hans Spekman

About Hans Spekman

Hans Spekman is a former PvdA politician. He is committed to equal opportunities for all children.

Hans Spekman grew up in a poor but warm family. After the early death of his father, his mother was left alone with four young children. His oldest sister Barbara entered psychiatry at a young age and struggled with addiction. His childhood has shaped him. To this day, he works for equal opportunities for all children.

Hans has been politically active since the 1990s. He made a name for himself with homeless shelters by putting an end to ‘the hell’ of Hoog Catharijne. The homeless were given a dignified existence, and safety in the city improved. He is also known in Utrecht as the savior of FC Utrecht. He collaborated with Leefbaar Utrecht and served in the municipal council alongside Halbe Zijlstra and Geert Wilders. As a member of parliament, he was the spokesperson for Social Affairs and Asylum. Together with Joël Voordewind, he was the initiator of the Children’s pardon.

As chairman, he ensured more internal democracy and ideological renewal. He operated at the center of power. As party chairman, Spekman personally decided to have the succession of Job Cohen in 2012 take place through a member consultation. Diederik Samsom was elected, and the party achieved significant gains in the elections. He felt responsible for the heavy electoral defeat in 2017. Therefore, he stepped down in October 2017.

Hans has remained true to himself in all his roles. With a unique style. He stood out for his colorful sweaters and clear language.

Since 2018, he has been the first director of the newly established Youth Education Fund, which is dedicated to equal developmental opportunities for children growing up in poverty. He works there with the teachers from schools where many children grow up in poverty. He sees the division up close.

Hans is an inspiring and passionate speaker. His most important life lesson, ‘persevere, hold on, do not give up,’ was instilled in him at a young age by his mother. He speaks with conviction and evidence that we can make a difference together.