PVV leader Geert Wilders is increasing pressure on his coalition partners with demands for stricter asylum policies, threatening to withdraw his party from the government if his proposals are not met. This ultimatum follows a conference in Budapest where Wilders declared his party’s urgent need for action on asylum.

The other coalition parties, VVD, NSC, and BBB, are wary of Wilders’ motives and are trying to de-escalate the situation. While open to discussions, they insist that Wilders present detailed proposals in Parliament and communicate directly with his own Minister of Asylum, Marjolein Faber.

Concerns are growing within the coalition about whether Wilders is deliberately seeking a reason to collapse the government. His past behavior as a toleration partner in the Rutte I cabinet, where he abruptly withdrew support over austerity measures, raises doubts about his commitment to the current coalition.

Wilders’ current strategy appears to be a short-term tactic to divert attention from unfavorable developments, such as the Council of State’s expected negative assessment of his proposed rent freeze. Additionally, the PVV is less enthusiastic about increased defense spending to meet the new NATO standard, a topic on which they have limited influence.

Prime Minister Dick Schoof has alluded to ongoing negotiations among NATO member states regarding the new standard, suggesting that the Netherlands will find it difficult to refuse once international consensus is reached. VVD leader Dilan Yesilgöz has also criticized Wilders for associating with “Putin friends” in Budapest.

By focusing on asylum policy, Wilders is shifting the focus to an issue that resonates with his base. However, this strategy carries risks. A retreat from his publicly stated ten-point plan could alienate his supporters. Furthermore, triggering a cabinet crisis could backfire, potentially leading to a coalition with his political rivals.

The other coalition parties will primarily try to determine whether Wilders is genuinely seeking a political solution or is primarily focused on leaving the coalition. They seem hesitant to make concessions at this stage.