Dutch government requests opt-out from EU asylum rules

The Netherlands’ new coalition government, led by Geert Wilders’ far-right Party For Freedom (PVV), has requested an opt-out from the European Union’s asylum rules, just days after Germany unilaterally tightened its own border restrictions. In a letter to the European Commission, Dutch Migration Minister Marjolein Faber emphasized the need to "take back control of asylum policy."

The European Commission quickly rejected the request, stating that such an opt-out is impossible without significant amendments to existing EU legislation. Faber’s call for reform is part of the PVV’s campaign promise to curb migration, aimed at reducing the strain on social services like housing, healthcare, and education.

Despite the coalition’s push, EU officials have deemed the request unlikely to succeed, warning it could create a ripple effect, causing neighboring countries to face increased pressure from asylum seekers. The Dutch move has underscored ongoing tensions over migration within the EU, which continues to grapple with implementing its new Migration and Asylum Pact set to be fully adopted by 2026. Until then, individual member states are expected to continue seeking unilateral solutions.