On Wednesday evening 11 March 2026, the election debate De Stad Kiest took place in the Maassilo. In the run-up to the municipal elections, 16 political parties eligible for election debated three themes that directly affect daily life in Rotterdam: (night)culture, housing and safety. The debate was organised by N8W8 R'dam, Lokaal, Operator and Maassilo and attracted around 600 visitors. This made the Maassilo for an evening not only a place for music and nightlife, but also for political conversation and urban reflection.

The initiators organised the debate based on the belief that political engagement grows when politics is made visible, concrete and accessible. By organising the debate in the Maassilo - a location with strong ties to Rotterdam's nightlife and cultural landscape - politics was literally brought to the places where the city comes together.

During the evening, representatives of the various parties debated with each other using sharp statements and concrete dilemmas. Topics such as space for (night-time) culture, affordability of housing, safety in the city and proposals such as the 24-hour metro were discussed at length.

Audience and debate
Besides political confrontation, the programme also provided space for audience questions and reactions from the audience. This made the debate not only an exchange between parties, but also a moment in which visitors could make their voices heard and form their own positions. The combination of substantive discussion, an engaged audience and the special setting made for an energetic evening in which differences between parties became visible and political choices were made tangible.

Large turnout
With almost 600 visitors, De Stad Kiest showed that there is a clear need in Rotterdam for accessible political discussions on the future of the city. In the week leading up to the elections, the debate provided a moment for Rotterdammers to learn about parties' positions and engage in conversation.

The organisers look back on a successful evening and thank all participating parties, visitors and partners who contributed to making the debate possible!

Watch the entire registration of The City Chooses here: