Dutch government falls as Geert Wilders' far-right PVV quits coalition

Far-right Dutch leader Geert Wilders has withdrawn his Party for Freedom (PVV) from the governing coalition, causing the collapse of the Dutch government. The decision came on Tuesday amidst a heated dispute over immigration policies, which have been a contentious issue within the coalition. Wilders, known for his strong anti-immigration stance, criticized the government's approach as inadequate, leading to his party's dramatic exit. The coalition, already described as fragile, struggled to maintain unity on various issues, with immigration being the most divisive. Prime Minister Mark Rutte's administration had faced increasing pressure to adopt stricter immigration controls, a demand pushed by Wilders' PVV. The inability to reach a consensus on this matter ultimately proved insurmountable, highlighting deep-seated tensions within the coalition. The collapse of the government sets the stage for early elections, throwing the Netherlands into a period of political uncertainty. Analysts suggest that immigration will remain a central theme in the upcoming campaigns, with parties likely to recalibrate their positions in response to the public's concerns. As the political landscape shifts, all eyes will be on how Wilders' PVV and other parties navigate the evolving debate on immigration policy.

— Authored by Next24 Live