In the Netherlands, the recent general election victory of Geert Wilders, a controversial right-wing politician, has sparked intense international attention. Wilders, often compared to Donald Trump for his distinctive hair and fiery rhetoric, has gained notoriety for his strong anti-Muslim and anti-immigration stances, leading to his heavy police protection since 2004. Despite past legal challenges and being barred from the UK in 2009, his views resonate with Europe’s far-right, evidenced by the congratulatory rush from nationalist leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orban.
Wilders’ success, unexpected even to himself, was bolstered by a late surge in polls and his toned-down rhetoric closer to the election. His focus on immigration, the housing crisis, and healthcare improvements, coupled with a polished debate performance, attracted Dutch voters. Interestingly, his softened extremist image, partly due to the center-right VVD leader Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius’s openness to coalition, played a role in his party’s rise.
While Wilders leads the largest parliamentary party, he lacks enough seats to govern alone, necessitating compromises and coalition negotiations. His potential leadership could strain EU relations, especially with his stance on a “Nexit” referendum and opposition to further military aid to Ukraine.
Despite Wilders’ success, it’s an oversimplification to declare a far-right takeover in Europe. The political landscape remains complex, with varying electoral outcomes across countries. However, the rise of anti-immigration sentiments is undeniable, influencing mainstream parties and signaling a shift in Europe’s political climate. The European Commission, while outwardly confident, should heed the implications of Wilders’ victory and the broader political trends it signifies.