The Dutch government, led by Geert Wilders' nationalist Party for Freedom (PVV), is set to declare a national asylum crisis, marking a major shift in its approach to managing migration. This declaration will enable the government to impose stricter measures to control the flow of asylum seekers without needing parliamentary approval. This move follows a similar trend in Europe, as seen with recent developments in Germany, which has also tightened border controls in response to migration pressures.
Under the new policy, the Dutch government plans to halt all new asylum applications temporarily. This drastic step is part of a broader strategy to make the Netherlands a less attractive destination for asylum seekers. Marjolein Faber, the migration minister from the PVV, has stated that these measures are within the scope of existing Dutch migration laws, even though they are facing scrutiny and criticism from opposition parties who question both their necessity and legality.
The Netherlands, while receiving asylum applications at a rate comparable to the EU average in 2023, has been struggling with its registration system. The sole registration center has been overwhelmed, leading to inadequate conditions for refugees, including cases where they have had to sleep in the open. This strain on the system has prompted the government to take more drastic measures to manage the situation.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof, who is leading the cabinet as an unelected bureaucrat, has argued that controlling migration is essential to address other pressing issues, such as pressures on the housing market, healthcare system, and educational infrastructure. Although the Netherlands' asylum numbers are relatively moderate compared to other European countries, Schoof and Wilders believe that migration exacerbates these existing problems.
The Dutch government also aims to seek an exemption from EU asylum rules to implement its stricter policies. However, this is likely to face significant resistance from Brussels, as the EU has already established migration agreements that member states are expected to follow. EU spokesman Eric Mamer has pointed out that opting out of agreed EU legislation is not straightforward, highlighting the challenges the Dutch government will face in pursuing its policy changes.
Among the proposed measures are the cessation of open-ended asylum permits and significant restrictions on family reunification for those granted asylum. The government also plans to introduce a law that would suspend decisions on new asylum applications for up to two years and limit the facilities available to asylum seekers. Additionally, stricter border controls will be put in place to combat human trafficking and curb irregular migration.
Geert Wilders' rise to prominence was marked by his promises to implement some of the strictest migration rules in the EU. Although he did not become Prime Minister himself, his influence is evident in the current government's policies. The coalition formed in May 2024, which includes three right-wing partners, reflects Wilders' commitment to overhauling the Netherlands' migration policies.
As the Netherlands embarks on these new policies, the impact on both the domestic situation and its relationship with the broader European Union remains to be seen. The government’s approach could set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar migration issues and could influence the ongoing debate about asylum policies across Europe.
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