Els Borst, Dutch physician and politician, Deputy Prime Minister of the Netherlands (b. 1932)

Else "Els" Borst-Eilers, born on 22 March 1932 and passing away on 8 February 2014, was a prominent Dutch politician affiliated with the Democrats 66 (D66) party, distinguished for her career as both a physician and a stateswoman. Her lasting legacy was officially recognized on 21 December 2012 when she was bestowed with the esteemed honorary title of Minister of State, a lifetime appointment acknowledging her exceptional service and contributions to the Netherlands.

Early Life and Distinguished Medical Career

Borst-Eilers initially dedicated herself to the medical field, building a comprehensive and impactful career before transitioning into national politics. Her early professional journey included a period as a medical researcher at the Academic Medical Center from 1958 to 1962, where she contributed to scientific advancements. Following this, she served as a practicing physician from 1962 until 1976, directly engaging in patient care and clinical practice.

Her leadership capabilities in the medical sector quickly became evident. From 1969 to 1976, she held the crucial position of director of the blood bank at the University Medical Center Utrecht, overseeing vital aspects of healthcare infrastructure. Her administrative prowess further blossomed as she served as the hospital administrator for the same University Medical Center Utrecht from 1976 to 1985, where she was responsible for the strategic direction and operational management of a major healthcare institution.

Building on her extensive experience, Borst was appointed Vice Chairwoman of the Health Council on 1 January 1986, a role she held until 22 August 1994. The Health Council is an independent advisory body in the Netherlands that advises the government and parliament on matters of public health and healthcare, reflecting her growing influence in national health policy. Concurrently, from 1 July 1992 to 22 August 1994, she shared her profound knowledge and ethical insights as a professor of medical ethics at the prestigious University of Amsterdam, shaping the next generation of medical professionals and thinkers.

Pivotal Role in Dutch Politics: Minister and Party Leader

Else Borst's foray into national politics marked a significant chapter in her career and for the Netherlands. Following the general election of 1994, she was appointed Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport in the first 'Purple Coalition' cabinet, Cabinet Kok I, officially taking office on 22 August 1994. This groundbreaking coalition, comprising the social-democratic Labour Party (PvdA), the liberal People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), and her own socially liberal Democrats 66 (D66) party, was unprecedented in Dutch politics, as it excluded the long-dominant Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) for the first time in decades. As a D66 minister, Borst was a key proponent of progressive social policies within this government.

Her leadership within D66 was further cemented when, five months before the 1998 general election, the then-Leader of the Democrats 66, Hans van Mierlo, announced his retirement and endorsed Borst as his successor. Upon Van Mierlo's stepping down on 15 February 1998, Else Borst was chosen to succeed him as Leader of the Democrats 66 and became the 'Lijsttrekker' (top candidate) for the party in the 1998 election. Despite her prominent role, the Democrats 66 experienced a notable setback in the election, losing 10 seats and retaining 14 seats in the House of Representatives.

On 19 May 1998, Borst was elected as a Member of the House of Representatives and subsequently became the Parliamentary leader of the Democrats 66 in the House. However, a brief period later, on 30 May 1998, she stepped down from both the leadership of D66 and her role as Parliamentary leader in favour of Thom de Graaf, streamlining party leadership for the new term. The subsequent cabinet formation resulted in a continuation of the 'Purple Coalition' with Cabinet Kok II. In this new administration, which took office on 3 August 1998, Else Borst continued her critical role as Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, and additionally assumed the significant position of Deputy Prime Minister, further solidifying her influence in national policy-making.

During her tenure as Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, Borst-Eilers was instrumental in guiding crucial legislative reforms. Notably, she played a pivotal role in the legislative process that ultimately led to the legalization of euthanasia in the Netherlands in 2002. Her commitment to individual autonomy and patient rights was central to this groundbreaking reform, positioning the Netherlands as the first country to legalize assisted dying under strict conditions. She also laid significant groundwork for the future of the Dutch healthcare system, advocating for reforms aimed at improving accessibility and efficiency.

In 2001, Else Borst announced her decision to retire from national politics, confirming she would not stand for the general election of 2002, marking the end of a remarkable political career.

Post-Political Life and Tragic End

Following her retirement from national politics, Else Borst-Eilers remained an active and influential figure in public life, particularly within the non-profit sector and healthcare advocacy. She occupied numerous seats on the supervisory boards of various non-governmental organizations (NGOs), demonstrating her continued commitment to societal well-being. These roles included leadership positions with the Dutch Cancer Society, the Netherlands Cancer Institute, the Helen Dowling Institute (focused on psychosocial oncology), the Institute for Health Services Research, the National Committee for 4 and 5 May (responsible for national remembrance of World War II victims and celebration of liberation), and the Brain Foundation. She also remained a vocal advocate for cancer research, leveraging her medical expertise and political influence to advance scientific understanding and patient care.

Else Borst continued to offer her insights and comment on political affairs as a respected stateswoman until her untimely death on 8 February 2014. Her life tragically ended when she was murdered by a mentally unstable man in her home, an event that deeply shocked the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Else Borst-Eilers

What were Else Borst-Eilers' key contributions as Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport?
As Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport from 1994 to 2002, Else Borst-Eilers played a central role in the legislative process that led to the legalization of euthanasia in the Netherlands in 2002, a landmark decision making the Netherlands the first country to do so. She also laid significant groundwork for comprehensive reforms of the Dutch healthcare system, aiming to improve its accessibility and efficiency.
What was Else Borst-Eilers' professional background before entering national politics?
Before her distinguished political career, Else Borst-Eilers had an extensive and diverse background in the medical field. She worked as a medical researcher, a practicing physician, the director of a blood bank, and a hospital administrator at the University Medical Center Utrecht. She also served as Vice Chairwoman of the Health Council and as a professor of medical ethics at the University of Amsterdam.
What is the significance of the "Minister of State" title granted to Else Borst-Eilers?
The honorary title of Minister of State in the Netherlands is a lifetime appointment granted by the monarch to former politicians who have held significant public office. It is a prestigious recognition of their exceptional service, wisdom, and continued contribution to public life, often sought for their counsel on important national matters. Else Borst-Eilers received this honor in 2012.