RUTTE, the longest-serving premier in Dutch history, has announced the resignation of his government.
The decision came as a result of the coalition’s inability to resolve their differences on migration policy, which has been a divisive issue across Europe.
In line with this, the opposition swiftly called for fresh elections, seeing an opportunity for a change in direction.
Geert Wilders, leader of the Anti-Immigration Party for Freedom, and Jesse Klaver, leader of the Green Left Party, expressed their support for prompt elections.
However, while the government has resigned, Rutte and his team will continue to serve in a caretaker capacity until a new ruling coalition is formed.
The collapse of the Dutch government highlights the ideological divisions that have plagued the coalition since its formation 18 months ago.
Rutte’s People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy and the Christian democrats, who advocate for stricter migration measures, clashed with the Centrist Parties D66 and Christenunie, which have more lenient views on migration.
This issue extends beyond the Netherlands, as migration remains a central topic of debate across Europe and is likely to have an impact on the upcoming European Union parliamentary elections.
