Introduction: A Political Earthquake in The Hague
In a stunning turn of events, the Dutch government collapsed in June 2025 after far-right leader Geert Wilders withdrew his Freedom Party (PVV) from the ruling coalition. Prime Minister Dick Schoof formally resigned and submitted the cabinet’s resignation to King Willem-Alexander, just 11 months after the coalition government was formed.
The political crisis, triggered by a heated disagreement over new asylum policies, has left the Netherlands reeling and set the stage for a highly polarized and contentious snap election expected later this year.
What Triggered the Collapse? Wilders’ Asylum Demands
Wilders demanded 10 new measures on asylum and immigration, including:
- A freeze on asylum applications
- A ban on new refugee reception centers
- Severe restrictions on family reunification
Although many of his proposals Dutch government collapse mirrored policies already within the coalition agreement, others were considered legally risky and had previously been rejected during negotiations. When it became clear that coalition partners would not sign off on the full list, Wilders walked out of a scheduled cabinet meeting and announced on social media: “No signature for our asylum plans. PVV leaves the coalition.”
Fallout: Political Finger-Pointing and Resignations
The fallout was immediate and severe. Prime Minister Schoof condemned the move as “irresponsible and unnecessary.” Other coalition leaders, like VVD’s Dilan Yeşilgöz and BBB’s Mona Keijzer, accused Wilders of sabotaging the government for political gain Dutch government collapse.
The coalition was a fragile alliance of four ideologically diverse parties: the far-right PVV, conservative-liberal VVD, agrarian BBB, and centrist New Social Contract. From the beginning, it appeared more like a political marriage of convenience than a stable governing force.
Geert Wilders: Playing a Dangerous Political Game
Wilders’ strategy appears aimed at positioning himself for a stronger showing in the upcoming elections. On Tuesday, he told reporters that he intended to become the next Prime Minister of the Netherlands, claiming the PVV would “become bigger than ever.”
However, analysts warn that this move may backfire. Chatham House analyst Armida van Rij noted that Wilders’ support has been waning, and collapsing the government may be viewed by voters as reckless rather than bold.
Domestic and International Implications
This crisis occurs just weeks ahead of the NATO summit in The Hague. The political vacuum raises concerns about the Netherlands’ ability to lead diplomatically at a time of rising geopolitical tensions, especially given its role in NATO and the EU.
At home, the issue of asylum and immigration is now firmly at the center of political discourse. The question remains: can Wilders capitalize on this moment, or will he face resistance from voters who see this as a power grab at the cost of national stability?
Economic Reaction and What Comes Next
According to ABN AMRO’s chief economist Sandra Phlippen, the economic impact is limited for now. The short-lived government hadn’t implemented major fiscal plans, so markets remained relatively calm. However, continued instability could shake investor confidence as the election nears.
New elections are likely to be held in autumn 2025. Until then, Schoof and his ministers will remain in caretaker roles. But with Wilders now seen as the instigator of this collapse, forming a new coalition—should he win again—may prove even more difficult.
Conclusion: A Divided Nation at a Crossroads
The 2025 Dutch government collapse underscores deep divisions within Dutch politics and the growing volatility around migration and asylum issues. As voters prepare to return to the polls, the question is whether Geert Wilders’ gamble will pay off—or whether it marks a turning point against populist politics in the Netherlands.
Will Dutch voters reward Wilders’ hardline stance, or punish him for political instability? The next few months will define the future of the Netherlands—and possibly, the future of Europe’s far-right momentum.