INVC NEWS
Amsterdam — : The mounting pressure on the Dutch coalition government has sparked fears of political instability after far-right leader Geert Wilders threatened to withdraw support if stricter immigration controls are not enforced. Wilders, whose party holds the largest number of seats in the ruling coalition, has issued a clear ultimatum: tighten immigration policy or face collapse.
The coalition, formed just 11 months ago, is now at risk of breaking apart. Comprising four parties, the government relies heavily on the support of Wilders’ Party for Freedom (PVV). Wilders has introduced a 10-point immigration crackdown plan, demanding immediate legislative and military action to reduce the number of migrants entering the country. His proposals include deploying military forces at the borders and rapidly curbing both legal and illegal immigration.
Sources within the government suggest internal discussions have intensified after Wilders made his stance public during a high-level alliance meeting on Monday night. Following the talks, Wilders remarked, “There will be a meeting again tomorrow, but the situation does not seem to be right.” These comments have fueled speculation that an agreement is unlikely and that Wilders could pull the plug on the coalition.
This political crisis unfolds just weeks before the Netherlands is scheduled to host a key NATO summit in The Hague, placing additional diplomatic stress on Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s government. The timing could not be more critical, as the Dutch administration juggles both domestic discord and its responsibilities on the international stage.
Wilders has long maintained a controversial position on immigration. Known for his hardline anti-Islam and anti-immigration views, he has frequently challenged mainstream Dutch policies. After years in opposition, his Party for Freedom emerged victorious in the November 2023 elections, securing the most seats and leading coalition negotiations. Though not Prime Minister himself, Wilders’ role in government formation gave him significant influence over national policy.
Earlier in February 2025, Wilders had already tested the stability of the coalition by threatening to walk out due to disagreements on refugee caps. He ultimately remained after tentative concessions were made. However, his latest demands indicate a rapidly shortening fuse, and this time, the possibility of a full government breakdown is real.
The proposed immigration reform plan includes measures such as stricter asylum limits, faster deportation processes, and halting certain categories of family reunification. It also seeks enhanced powers for border police and reductions in legal migration through work and student visa programs.
Analysts argue that if Wilders carries through on his threat, the coalition could lose its parliamentary majority, forcing either a snap election or the formation of a new alliance. Some observers believe Wilders may be leveraging the situation to pressure for a Prime Ministership or even trigger a policy reset in line with his far-right agenda.
The Dutch political landscape has grown increasingly polarized in recent years, with migration policy becoming a flashpoint issue. A growing number of voters have expressed concern about integration, housing shortages, and national identity—topics that Wilders has repeatedly amplified in his campaigns and public addresses.
Reports from The Hague suggest that coalition leaders are engaged in late-night talks to find common ground before the looming government deadline. With Wilders’ influence at its peak and his demands growing more uncompromising, the future of the Netherlands government hangs in the balance.
