In a dramatic turn of events, the Dutch coalition government has crumbled following the exit of Geert Wilders' far-right Freedom Party (PVV). Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced his resignation and that of his cabinet to King Willem-Alexander after a contentious standoff over immigration policies. Schoof described Wilders' departure as "irresponsible and unnecessary," revealing the fragility of the coalition formed less than a year ago.
The breakdown was precipitated by Wilders' demand for ten additional asylum measures, which included halting new applications and constructing reception centres, significantly rattling the coalition's stability. Despite Schoof's last-ditch appeal to coalition leaders during an emergency meeting, Wilders left moments after, effectively dissolving the partnership. "No signature for our asylum plans. PVV leaves the coalition," he declared on social media platform X.
Political leaders have expressed shock and discontent, noting that many of Wilders’ demands had already been included in existing coalition agreements. The coalition, which began in July 2024 after extended negotiations, included the conservative VVD, the Farmers' Citizen Movement (BBB), and the centrist New Social Contract alongside Wilders’ PVV.
In the wake of the split, Wilders seems emboldened, asserting his goal of becoming the next Prime Minister and expanding his party's influence ahead of the forthcoming elections. However, accusations of recklessness have surfaced, with critics claiming he prioritizes personal ambition over national stability. Economists have observed that the economic fallout appears limited for now, given that the government was slow to enact substantial policies during its term.
With NATO’s summit approaching in The Hague, Schoof's ministers will remain in caretaker roles as the country prepares for a likely autumn election. The immediate future looks uncertain, as Wilders’ decision to collapse the government poses risks to his political capital and potential alliances post-election, particularly concerning the volatile topics of migration and economic instability sweeping across Europe.
The breakdown was precipitated by Wilders' demand for ten additional asylum measures, which included halting new applications and constructing reception centres, significantly rattling the coalition's stability. Despite Schoof's last-ditch appeal to coalition leaders during an emergency meeting, Wilders left moments after, effectively dissolving the partnership. "No signature for our asylum plans. PVV leaves the coalition," he declared on social media platform X.
Political leaders have expressed shock and discontent, noting that many of Wilders’ demands had already been included in existing coalition agreements. The coalition, which began in July 2024 after extended negotiations, included the conservative VVD, the Farmers' Citizen Movement (BBB), and the centrist New Social Contract alongside Wilders’ PVV.
In the wake of the split, Wilders seems emboldened, asserting his goal of becoming the next Prime Minister and expanding his party's influence ahead of the forthcoming elections. However, accusations of recklessness have surfaced, with critics claiming he prioritizes personal ambition over national stability. Economists have observed that the economic fallout appears limited for now, given that the government was slow to enact substantial policies during its term.
With NATO’s summit approaching in The Hague, Schoof's ministers will remain in caretaker roles as the country prepares for a likely autumn election. The immediate future looks uncertain, as Wilders’ decision to collapse the government poses risks to his political capital and potential alliances post-election, particularly concerning the volatile topics of migration and economic instability sweeping across Europe.
