The Rebirth of F lemish Nationalism: Assessing the Impact of N‐VA Chairman B art D e W ever's Charisma

F lemish nationalism is back on the scene. The N ieuw‐ V laamse A lliantie ( N‐VA ), the political voice of democratic F lemish nationalism, emerged as the big winner of B elgium's 7 J une 2009 regional elections. To a significant extent, the N‐VA owes its success to the charismatic leadership of its chairman, B art D e W ever. This article investigates the nature of D e W ever's charismatic authority, as well as its tenability. As the N‐VA becomes a more prominent participant in the F lemish government, will the effect of D e W ever's charisma wane? If the success of the N‐VA is not structural but tied to the charisma of its chairman, will the party lose its prominence if D e W ever fades?