Dutch government collapses as far right leader withdraws support from coalition

The Dutch governing coalition has collapsed less than a year after its formation, following far-right leader Geert Wilders' decision to withdraw his PVV party’s support, triggering the resignation of Prime Minister Dick Schoof.

In a televised statement on June 3 following an emergency cabinet meeting, Schoof confirmed he would step down and is expected to submit the cabinet’s resignation to King Willem-Alexander by the end of the day, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

“As far as I'm concerned, this shouldn't have happened,” Schoof said. He called Wilders’ decision “irresponsible and unnecessary.”

Earlier, Wilders told reporters he intends to become the next prime minister and vowed to make the PVV “bigger than ever in the next elections.” His departure came after a failed last-minute meeting with coalition partners where he demanded 10 new asylum measures, including a freeze on applications, halting construction of reception centres, and limiting family reunification. The meeting lasted just one minute before Wilders walked out. “No signature for our asylum plans. PVV leaves the coalition,” he declared on X.

The governing coalition had been formed in July 2024 after months of negotiations following elections the previous year. Wilders' PVV was the largest party in the coalition, which also included the conservative-liberal VVD, the Farmers’ Citizen Movement (BBB), and the centrist New Social Contract (NSC).

Political leaders reacted with shock and anger. Many said Wilders’ asylum demands were already largely reflected in the coalition agreement, while others had been dismissed earlier for legal reasons. VVD leader Dilan Yesilgoz called the move “super irresponsible,” adding, “This wasn’t about asylum at all.” Deputy Prime Minister Mona Keijzer of the BBB accused Wilders of “betraying the Netherlands.”

Opposition leader Jimmy Dijk of the Socialist Party welcomed the collapse, stating the country had been “liberated from a political hostage situation.” Dutch media also criticized the government’s performance, with NRC describing it as “destroyed by amateurism and incompetence.”

Analysts suggest Wilders orchestrated the collapse to refocus public attention on asylum policy amid declining support for his party. However, having led asylum and immigration policy for nearly a year, the political gamble may not deliver the gains he expects.

By Vafa Guliyeva