Animal welfare party founded by jurist and author Marianne Thieme as a 'testimonial party' (a party that focuses on persuading other parties to effect change, rather than adapting the changes themselves through a legislature or government). Party decided to change course in 2021 and remains open to join coalitions. Party has been led by MP and former marketing manager Esther Ouwehand since October 9, 2019 [Partij voor de Dieren (PvdD)]