The far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), led by Geert Wilders, has withdrawn its support from the Netherlands’ governing coalition due to disagreements over asylum-seeker policies. Wilders expressed his frustration, stating that the coalition failed to fulfill its promises of strict immigration controls. His decision effectively ends the support for Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s administration, triggering political instability in the country.
Caretaker Government Takes Over as Coalition Collapses, Opposition Demands Immediate New Elections
Prime Minister Dick Schoof labeled the PVV’s departure as “unnecessary and irresponsible.” Following a cabinet meeting, Schoof confirmed that without PVV’s backing, the government lacks the majority needed to function, holding only 51 out of 150 parliamentary seats. As a result, Schoof will lead a caretaker government until a new coalition is formed, marking the collapse of the most right-leaning government in Dutch history.

Opposition parties have promptly demanded fresh elections in response to the crisis. Current polling indicates that the PVV would remain the largest party if elections were held, though it might lose some seats. However, Dutch politics is highly fragmented, and forming a new government could remain a challenge, as no single party has ever secured a majority.
Wilders’ Ultimatum and Controversial Views Spark Collapse of Dutch Coalition Government
Geert Wilders is known for his strong anti-immigration and anti-Islam views. Though his PVV party won the most seats in the November 2023 election, coalition negotiations kept him from holding a cabinet position. His controversial past includes a conviction for discrimination following derogatory comments about Moroccan immigrants. Wilders’ policy goals include banning Islamic institutions and drastically limiting asylum intake.
The final breaking point came after Wilders issued an ultimatum demanding extreme restrictions on asylum seekers, including border closures and the shutdown of asylum centers. Despite the minister for asylum and migration being from his own party, Wilders claimed the coalition refused to adopt his proposals. Convinced that his policy goals could not be achieved within the coalition, he formally withdrew PVV’s support, leading to the government’s collapse.