The Dutch government is under a crisis of politics following the sudden withdrawal of far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) led by Geert Wilders from the ruling coalition on Tuesday. Wilders’ action risks bringing down the weak right-wing government and almost certainly precipitating snap elections.
This came at a moment when far-right parties are making inroads into the Continent’s political fabric, challenging the unity of the continent on issues such as migration, security, and its relations with Russia.
Wilders Quits Over Asylum Policy Row
Wilders explained his party withdrew from the coalition as coalition allies declined to support his hardline asylum migration plans. On a post to X, he stated, “No signature under our asylum plans. The PVV leaves the coalition.” He notified PM Dick Schoof that every one of the PVV ministers will step down. Schoof has not yet replied.
The four-party coalition, which was established a year ago in July, had grappled with internal conflicts since the beginning. Wilders’ departure formalizes the already weak coalition, boosting political instability in the Netherlands, the fifth-biggest economy in Europe.
Political Fallout and Concerns at NATO
The impending collapse risks to push back on critical decisions, such as proposals to hike defense expenditure to the level of NATO goals. The Netherlands will enter the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague with a caretaker administration if snap elections go ahead.
Coalition allies were shocked and outraged. VVD leader Dilan Yesilgoz censured Wilders, stating, “There is a war on our continent. Rather than confront the challenge, Wilders is demonstrating he is not prepared to take responsibility.” Centrist NSC leader Nicolien van Vroonhoven branded the action as “irresponsible.”
Increasing Far-Right Influence in Europe
Wilders’ action is one of a larger European trend. Poland’s recent presidential election was narrowly won by nationalist candidate Karol Nawrocki, and Czech eurosceptic Andrej Babis is currently leading in polls before October elections. Romania’s centrist mayor Nicusor Dan, on the other hand, beat out a hard-right opponent last month.
Wilders’ Political Position and Demands
Wilders won the November 2023 election on 23% but has lost votes since entering the government. The polls now place PVV at about 20%, close to the Labour/Green coalition.
The previous week, Wilders insisted on urgent support for his ten-point asylum strategy. It proposed shutting borders to asylum seekers, repatriating Syrian refugees, deporting migrants convicted of serious offences, and employing the military in border control.
Although not in the cabinet as prime minister or minister, Wilders negotiated the coalition agreement with three right-wing parties. The cabinet is headed by independent, non-elected PM Schoof, a professional bureaucrat and former director of Dutch intelligence.
Political Uncertainty Ahead
As PVV walked away, the other parties might attempt to rule as a minority, but snap elections are anticipated by most. Opposition leader Frans Timmermans stated that elections are the sole route to a stable government. The future of Dutch politics is now on hold, mirroring broader tensions across Europe regarding migration and national identity.
