Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s leadership of the Dutch coalition government, comprised of PVV, VVD, NSC, and BBB, faced insurmountable challenges leading to its collapse. Distrust among party leaders, a lack of administrative experience within the coalition, and the absence of a clear common mission ultimately undermined his authority.

Schoof, a non-partisan figure, assumed the role of Prime Minister in what many considered an impossible situation. The deep-seated distrust among the party leaders of the coalition had been evident since the formation process, particularly regarding Geert Wilders’ exclusion from the premiership. This poisoned atmosphere set the stage for a turbulent term. Schoof’s appointment was seen as a compromise, a way to bring Pieter Omtzigt back into the fold and to establish an extra-parliamentary cabinet.

Unlike his predecessors, Schoof lacked a direct electoral mandate, which further complicated his position. He also struggled to establish authority and build public support. Comparisons were drawn to Mario Draghi, but Schoof lacked the same level of pre-existing public confidence. He failed to connect with the Dutch people and capitalize on opportunities to present himself effectively.

Distrust arose among the coalition partners, with some suspecting that Schoof favored the VVD due to his prior working relationships. The PVV, NSC, and BBB, relatively new to governing, felt overshadowed by the more experienced VVD. This suspicion intensified when Schoof announced additional support for Ukraine, a move that caught some coalition members off guard.

Ultimately, Schoof struggled to enforce his authority. He adopted a strategy of absorbing pressure from Wilders rather than confronting him directly, which was perceived as weakness. His role was often reduced to executing the main lines agreement without having been involved in its creation. In the end, Wilders initiated talks about migration without Schoof’s involvement, leading to the collapse of the cabinet.