The Netherlands Takes Drastic Measures to Curb Influx of Asylum Seekers
The Netherlands is implementing crisis laws in an effort to reduce the number of asylum seekers entering the country. The new government, led by nationalist Geert Wilders’ anti-Islam PVV party, plans to declare a national asylum crisis to roll back existing laws. Asylum Minister Marjolein Faber stated that measures are being taken to make the country less attractive to asylum seekers, with around 40,000 arriving annually.
Key Changes Being Made
The Dutch government will no longer grant open-end asylum permits and will restrict options for asylum recipients to reunite with their families. Emergency powers, similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic, will be enacted through a royal decree to bypass parliamentary approval. However, some experts question the justification for declaring a crisis when the number of asylum seekers has remained stable.
The European Union is expected to challenge these measures, as member states have already agreed on a migration pact. EU spokesperson Eric Mamer emphasized that opt-outs are not typically granted for adopted legislation. The situation is likely to escalate as the Netherlands moves forward with its controversial plans.
Source: dpa, Reuters