Wed Sep 18 15:23:00 UTC 2024: ## Netherlands Seeks EU Asylum Opt-Out, Plans Strictest-Ever Immigration Regime
**Amsterdam, Netherlands:** The Netherlands has announced its intention to seek an exemption from the EU’s common migration and asylum policy, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to immigration. This move follows the formation of a right-wing coalition government and its introduction of the country’s most stringent asylum regime yet.
Asylum and Migration Minister Marjolein Faber, a member of the far-right Freedom Party (PVV), announced the exemption request on social media, stating, “We have to handle our own asylum policy once more!” The PVV, led by Geert Wilders, emerged as the largest party in parliament during the July elections, and now holds a dominant position within the coalition government.
The planned opt-out would require unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states, a challenging prospect. Denmark has already secured an exemption from the EU’s common asylum policy.
The new asylum regime, which includes stricter border checks and harsh rules for asylum seekers, has drawn criticism from legal experts. The government also plans to declare a state of emergency to temporarily suspend parts of the asylum law without parliamentary approval, a move that has raised concerns about its legality.
While the coalition government comprises four parties – the PVV, the liberal-conservative VVD, the anti-corruption NSC, and the agrarian BBB – the PVV’s influence on the new immigration policies is evident. The government’s decision to seek an exemption from EU migration rules reflects a growing trend in Europe, where right-wing parties are gaining influence and pushing for stricter immigration policies.
The Netherlands’ move has sparked debate within the EU, with some questioning the feasibility and legality of the opt-out request. The European Commission is expected to respond to the Netherlands’ proposal in the coming weeks.
First Piper 