THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The stability of the Netherlands’ coalition government, in place for just shy of a year, is under serious threat as political leader Geert Wilders debates exiting the alliance. This uncertainty looms after Wilders, known for his far-right stance, declared he would decide after some reflection whether to withdraw from the fragile agreement among the coalition’s four parties.
Wilders has recently intensified pressure on the government, presenting a radical 10-point agenda focused on drastically cutting migration. His plan includes deploying the military to secure borders and turning away all individuals seeking asylum. Wilders boldly stated his party would no longer participate in the Cabinet unless migration policies are significantly tightened.
The mounting crisis unfolds as the Netherlands prepares to host a significant NATO summit in The Hague in just a few short weeks.
Following a late-night meeting Monday with leaders from the other three coalition members, Wilders told reporters that “we will meet each other tomorrow, but it doesn’t look good,” leaving the future of the coalition in doubt.
The intense focus on migration aligns with Wilders’ longstanding political platform, which has been strongly critical of Islam and migration policies in the country. His party, having secured electoral success last November, stands as the dominant force within the coalition. Wilders’ patience appears to have waned after extensive discussions without substantial action from the coalition regarding migration control.
In reaction to the Monday night discussions, Wilders’ coalition partners demanded concrete suggestions from him to amend the existing agreement. They also voiced annoyance over his frequent threats to destabilize the government. “If your goal is to blow things up, just say so,” remarked Dilan Yesilgöz from the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy after their hour-long meeting.
Caroline van der Plas, leader of the populist Farmers Citizens Movement, expressed her displeasure, highlighting that “The Netherlands does not like quitters.” Earlier in the year, Wilders also threatened to abandon the coalition over bills aimed at limiting asylum, a move he eventually retracted.
This recent political turmoil coincides with conservative Karol Nawrocki winning Poland’s presidential runoff, suggesting a shift towards more populist and nationalist policies in Poland. This change comes with backing from U.S. President Donald Trump, potentially influencing regional dynamics.