The Dutch government has experienced a dramatic collapse after Geert Wilders, the head of the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), withdrew his party from the ruling coalition. This unexpected decision comes less than a year following the coalition’s formation, indicating significant instability within the Dutch political landscape. Prime Minister Dick Schoof has confirmed his resignation and is expected to officially tender the cabinet’s resignation to King Willem-Alexander.
In a brief but impactful statement after an emergency cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Schoof expressed his disappointment regarding Wilders’ decision, labeling it “irresponsible and unnecessary.” He stated, “As far as I’m concerned, this shouldn’t have happened,” highlighting the unexpected breakdown of cooperation among coalition partners that initially formed in July 2024 after lengthy negotiations following the previous year’s elections.
Earlier on the same day, Wilders publicly declared his intention to become prime minister and emphasized his goal of expanding the support for his PVV party, aiming for even greater success in the forthcoming elections. He indicated that the current coalition’s disarray was part of a broader political strategy, especially with the upcoming NATO summit planned in The Hague at the end of the month. This raises the likelihood of Schoof’s remaining ministers serving in a caretaker capacity until new elections are scheduled.
Wilders’ withdrawal from the coalition reportedly stemmed from his demand for stricter asylum measures, which included halting new asylum applications, freezing the construction of reception centers, and tightening family reunification laws for asylum seekers. His abrupt action was a culmination of tense discussions, where coalition leaders, including Schoof, attempted to reconcile differences. However, the coalition leaders found Wilders’ demands excessive, especially since several proposals he presented had already been addressed in initial coalition talks.
Political reactions to Wilders’ exit varied significantly. Other coalition members expressed outrage, suggesting that his actions were self-serving rather than in the nation’s best interest. Dilan Yesilgoz, leader of the liberal VVD party, branded the decision as “super irresponsible,” while Mona Keijzer, deputy Prime Minister from the Farmers Citizen Movement (BBB), accused Wilders of betraying the Netherlands. In addition, the opposition Socialist Party described the situation as a liberation from a “political hostage” situation, with their leader Jimmy Dijk criticizing the coalition as ineffective.
Economically, experts are suggesting that the immediate impact of the government’s collapse might be minimal. Sandra Phlippen, the chief economist for ABN AMRO, commented that the cabinet had not initiated substantial economic reforms or policies during its short tenure. Dutch media also expressed skepticism regarding the political developments, with one publication articulating that the coalition—intended to be an effective governance structure—was ultimately dismantled due to amateurish leadership.
The political dynamics in the Netherlands are turbulent, and Wilders’ bid to leverage the collapse for political gain is evident. While asylum and immigration were central issues during his time in the coalition, with the next election on the horizon, it remains uncertain whether this gambit will prove beneficial for his party, particularly given that the PVV had been part of governing discussions regarding these very matters.
This situation continues to evolve, with further developments expected as political parties strategize their responses to the collapse of the coalition. The implications of Wilders’ actions could have significant repercussions for both Dutch politics and Europe’s broader political landscape as the far-right continues to gain momentum.