Geert Wilders pulls PVV from Dutch coalition government

Dutch politics was thrown into turmoil on Tuesday when Geert Wilders, leader of the right-wing, pro-Israel Party for Freedom (PVV), abruptly withdrew from the coalition government, effectively collapsing the administration and setting the stage for new elections.

Wilders, a vocal advocate for Israel and a staunch critic of mass immigration, announced the PVV’s departure over the refusal of his coalition partners to back his hardline asylum policies. “No signature under our asylum plans. The PVV leaves the coalition,” Wilders wrote on X. He confirmed that all PVV ministers had tendered their resignations to Prime Minister Dick Schoof.

The sudden move has sent shockwaves through The Hague. Wilders' coalition had always been fragile, stitched together just last July after months of negotiation. Its collapse now threatens to delay critical decisions, including a planned boost in defense spending ahead of a major NATO summit this month.

The fallout was immediate. Leaders of other coalition parties condemned Wilders’ decision. Dilan Yesilgoz of the VVD party called it a betrayal in the face of continental conflict, while Nicolien van Vroonhoven of the NSC party labeled it “irresponsible” given the stakes at hand.

Wilders had demanded immediate legislative support for policies including a full halt to asylum migration, the closure of refugee shelters, and the repatriation of Syrian asylum seekers. His partners resisted, insisting these issues needed ministerial input rather than ultimatums. Despite leading the largest party in parliament, Wilders had chosen not to serve as prime minister, appointing the non-partisan Dick Schoof to head the government.

Now, the Netherlands faces an extended period of political limbo. The country will likely be run by a caretaker administration as it hosts NATO leaders in The Hague and heads toward another national vote. Recent polls show Wilders’ popularity has declined since his party entered government, placing him in a tight race with the Labour-Green alliance.

While Wilders' political style remains polarizing, his unwavering support for Israel and outspoken stance against antisemitism continue to resonate with many Dutch Jews and pro-Israel supporters across Europe. His departure from government may complicate domestic politics, but his influence on the national debate is far from over.

Israel’s supporters will be watching closely as the Netherlands navigates its next chapter. Share this article to keep others informed on key developments in global politics, and subscribe to our newsletter for timely updates.