Netherlands government collapses as far-right leader Wilders quits coalition

Far-right Dutch politician Geert Wilders announced Tuesday that his Freedom Party (PVV) is exiting the governing coalition over disputes on immigration policy, effectively collapsing the fragile government and paving the way for snap elections.

Wilders expressed frustration over delays in implementing what had been promised as the "strictest-ever immigration policy," part of the agreement that followed his unexpected election victory in November 2023.

"No signature on our asylum plans... PVV is leaving the coalition," Wilders posted on X (formerly Twitter), citing unmet commitments from coalition partners.

This development plunges the Netherlands—Europe’s fifth-largest economy and a key global exporter—into political uncertainty, just weeks before it is set to host a NATO summit. It also underscores the broader trend of rising far-right influence across Europe.

Crisis talks on Tuesday morning quickly unraveled, lasting only about 30 minutes before party leaders emerged with visible tensions.

“I informed the prime minister that we are withdrawing PVV ministers from the cabinet. We can no longer take responsibility for this government,” Wilders said, accusing the coalition of failing the country. “I agreed to strict asylum measures, not to the downfall of the Netherlands.”

Despite the collapse of the coalition, recent polls show the PVV remains the leading party, though its lead has narrowed. It now faces tight competition from the left-leaning Green/Left alliance led by former European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans, and from the liberal VVD party.

Dilan Yeşilgöz, leader of the VVD, criticized Wilders’ decision as “deeply irresponsible,” expressing concern it could open the door for left-wing parties to gain power. “How can you do this to the Netherlands?” she said.

Wilders had already signaled dissatisfaction in late May, holding a surprise press conference to warn that his patience was wearing thin. He demanded a 10-point plan to drastically curb immigration within weeks or threatened to withdraw from the coalition.

His proposals included shutting borders to asylum seekers, tightening border controls, and deporting dual nationals convicted of crimes. “Close the borders to asylum seekers and family reunifications. No new asylum centers. Close the existing ones,” he declared.

Legal and political analysts widely criticized the plan as either illegal or unfeasible, suggesting that Wilders may have been setting the stage for the government’s collapse.

Often labeled the “Dutch Trump” for his nationalist, anti-immigration rhetoric and distinctive hairstyle, Wilders’ ambition to become prime minister was thwarted by coalition partners, who appointed Dick Schoof as a compromise candidate instead. All four party leaders agreed to remain outside the cabinet, serving as parliamentary leaders.

Known for his sharp parliamentary exchanges—especially with Timmermans—Wilders has repeatedly insisted that only by becoming prime minister could he realize his immigration agenda.

However, the Dutch parliamentary system, with its fragmented political landscape, makes it nearly impossible for any single party to secure an outright majority in the 150-seat legislature. Wilders will need allies.

He is expected to have the support of the BBB (Farmers’ Citizens Movement), but continued backing from the VVD remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the fourth coalition partner, the New Social Contract party, has lost momentum following the resignation of its prominent leader Pieter Omtzigt.

Across Europe, far-right movements are gaining ground. In Portugal, the far-right Chega ("Enough") party recently finished second in national elections. Germany’s anti-immigrant AfD saw its vote share double in February, reaching 20.8%. In the UK, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK is also gaining traction following local election gains.