The PVV warned Thursday it will not back a watered-down version of the proposed asylum legislation, including the controversial two-tier status system, unless the strict original measures remain intact. “We will not agree to a weak imitation,” PVV Tweede Kamer member Marina Vondeling said during a heated debate in the Tweede Kamer.
The right-wing party’s stance adds pressure to coalition talks over the strict asylum laws, which still need approval in the Eerste Kamer. In the PVV’s view, amendments from coalition partner CDA—meant to align the legislation with the new European migration pact—would water down the measures.
“Only after the votes on the amendments will we decide whether to support the asylum laws,” Vondeling said. Her remarks came in response to a growing number of amendment proposals from both coalition and opposition lawmakers, many of which could allegedly significantly alter the scope and timing of the legislation.
Parties vote first on amendments—small changes—before voting on the full law. This process often occurs on the same day but not always, adding uncertainty to the timeline.
CDA leader Henri Bontenbal has proposed delaying implementation of the laws until the new European migration rules come into effect. This would align Dutch policies with broader EU standards and respond to concerns from the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), which has warned of excessive pressure on its staff.
Bontenbal criticized the PVV sharply, accusing the party of cynical politics. “The PVV is only posturing ‘voor de bühne’ [for show] by demanding stricter asylum measures, without any interest in their feasibility,” he said. His comments highlighted the growing political tension around the legislation.
Vondeling responded to Bontenbal’s proposal with contempt. “I think this is just weak nonsense from Mr. Bontenbal of the CDA,” she said. “It simply looks like he doesn’t want strict measures at all.”
The outcome of the amendment votes will determine whether the PVV remains on board. Without the support of the CDA, securing a majority in the Eerste Kamer will be difficult.