Geert Wilders to Take Netherlands Out of EU Migration Rules

The incoming Dutch government, led by Geert Wilders’ nationalist PVV party, plans to opt out of European Union migration rules in response to what it describes as an asylum crisis.

Wilders secured a deal on Wednesday to form the most right-wing government in the Netherlands in decades, nearly six months after a significant election victory.

The new government’s plan, published early on Thursday, outlines intentions to implement the “strictest-ever asylum regime,” featuring enhanced border controls and more stringent regulations for asylum seekers entering the Netherlands.

The coalition aims to submit a request to the European Commission for an opt-out clause from European asylum and migration policies. However, the likelihood of this request being granted remains uncertain.

In addition to tightening asylum policies, the government intends to restrict labour migration and impose stricter criteria for foreign students seeking admission to Dutch universities.

The coalition includes Wilders’ PVV, outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s centre-right VVD, the new NSC party, and the farmers’ protest party BBB, forming a strong majority with 88 seats in the 150-seat Lower House.

Following this agreement, an independent intermediary will be appointed to form the cabinet of ministers, a process expected to take at least another month.

The question of who will serve as Prime Minister remains open. Wilders, known for his outspoken views on Islam, previously stated in March that he would forgo the role to facilitate negotiations with prospective government partners.

He has not yet announced his nominee for the position.

The new government has also committed to maintaining political and military support for Ukraine.

It plans to make it a legal requirement to spend at least 2% of the Dutch gross domestic product on defence, aligning with NATO agreements.

Furthermore, the coalition’s agenda includes the construction of four nuclear power reactors over the next decade and a pledge to ease environmental regulations for farmers.

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