The Dutch government has collapsed following the withdrawal of Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) from the ruling coalition, citing disagreements over immigration and asylum policies. Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced his resignation shortly after, transitioning the government into a caretaker role until new elections are held.
Wilders, whose PVV was the largest party in the coalition, demanded the implementation of stringent immigration measures, including military border enforcement and the deportation of Syrian refugees. His coalition partners—the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), New Social Contract (NSC), and the Farmer-Citizen Movement (BBB)—rejected these proposals, leading to the PVV’s exit.
Prime Minister Schoof criticized the move as “irresponsible and unnecessary,” expressing disappointment over the breakdown of the 11-month-old coalition. Opposition leader Frans Timmermans called for immediate elections, emphasizing the need for a stable government.
The collapse comes just weeks before the Netherlands is set to host a NATO summit, adding to the political uncertainty. New elections are expected to be scheduled in the coming months.
