Dutch Far-Right Leader Wilders Ends Coalition, Triggers Snap Election

Far-right Dutch leader Geert Wilders has dissolved the Netherlands' coalition government, triggering snap elections focused on his hardline immigration policies. Wilders, who aims to become prime minister, has long been a polarizing figure known for his anti-Islam rhetoric and has previously walked away from coalitions when political challenges arose. Despite his party's surprise election win in 2023 and his promise to soften rhetoric to secure power, his coalition partners refused to let him lead, instead appointing a technocrat, Dick Schoof, as caretaker prime minister. Wilders' decision to pull out over disagreements on asylum policy risks alienating potential coalition allies in the fragmented Dutch political landscape, where consensus is key. Analysts warn that his gamble may backfire, as immigration is no longer the top voter concern and his reputation for instability undermines his chances of forming future alliances. The upcoming snap elections will test whether Wilders can convert his provocative style into sustainable political power or if he remains a divisive outsider.