Dutch PM calls election after coalition collapse

The Netherlands will hold new elections after Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s coalition government collapsed when far-right leader Geert Wilders withdrew his Party for Freedom (PVV) ministers over disputes on migration policy.

Wilders demanded stricter asylum controls, including border closures and deportations, which coalition partners rejected.

Schoof’s government will continue in a caretaker role, but a snap election is expected in several months.

The collapse comes just weeks before the Netherlands hosts a NATO summit, complicating security commitments.

Opposition leaders say new elections are needed to form a stable government, while coalition partners criticized Wilders for irresponsibility, the DW has reported.

Wilders’ PVV remains a major political force, reflecting ongoing voter concern over immigration and economic issues.

Written by B.C. Begley