Incoming Dutch Coalition Unveils Migration Framework as Rights Groups Express Concern

The incoming Dutch coalition of D66, VVD, and CDA presented its migration policy framework this week, revealing how the new government plans to handle one of the country's most contentious issues when it takes office on 23 February. Human rights organizations expressed concern over what they described as a continuation of restrictive policies despite changes in coalition composition.

The coalition agreement, finalized in late January, maintains many of the emergency measures implemented by the outgoing Schoof government while promising a shift in rhetorical tone. Asylum and migration policy proved one of the more difficult issues during coalition negotiations, with D66 pushing for a more rights-based approach while the VVD sought to preserve the strict measures that defined the previous administration.

Policy Continuity and Change

The incoming coalition has committed to maintaining the asylum crisis declaration first issued by the Schoof government, which enables expedited procedures and expanded detention capacity. The new government will also continue the policy of not granting automatic permanent residence permits to recognized refugees, requiring renewed applications after temporary protection periods.

However, the coalition agreement signals departures in several areas. The incoming government has abandoned the previous coalition's attempt to secure an opt-out from EU asylum rules, recognizing this as legally and politically unachievable. Instead, it will focus on implementing the EU Migration Pact while seeking maximum flexibility within its provisions.

The agreement also promises improved processing times at the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), addressing a backlog that has left thousands of asylum seekers in legal limbo. Additional funding for the IND was one of D66's key demands during negotiations.

Rights Groups Sound Alarm

Amnesty International Netherlands described the coalition's migration framework as "deeply concerning," warning that it perpetuates policies that undermine refugee protections. The organization pointed specifically to provisions for expanded detention, reduced procedural safeguards, and proposed amendments to the Netherlands' interpretation of the UN Refugee Convention.

"While the rhetoric may have softened, the substance remains problematic," said Dagmar Oudshoorn, director of Amnesty Netherlands. "We see continued erosion of the rights that should protect people fleeing persecution. The incoming government has an opportunity to change course, but this agreement suggests they will not take it."

The Dutch Red Cross offered a more mixed assessment. The organization welcomed commitments to improve reception conditions and reduce processing times, but expressed concern about detention policies and the potential impact on vulnerable groups including unaccompanied minors.

Current Situation Under Schoof Cabinet

The outgoing Schoof cabinet, now in caretaker status following the PVV's departure in June 2025 and NSC's exit in August, continues to manage day-to-day asylum operations. Foreign Minister David van Weel, who also holds the asylum and migration portfolio, has maintained border checks with Germany and Belgium that were implemented last year.

The Ter Apel application center remains overcrowded despite the dispersal law requiring municipalities to accept their share of asylum seekers. Of the 103,000 reception beds theoretically available under the dispersal system, only approximately 80,000 are actually operational. The mismatch between capacity and demand has created persistent humanitarian concerns.

Syrian asylum applications have collapsed following the fall of the Assad regime in December 2025. Applications from Syrian nationals dropped 97% from the previous year, and approval rates for those who did apply fell from 95% to 28%. The Dutch government has argued that changed circumstances in Syria mean many refugees no longer need protection.

Community Perspectives

The Muslim Platform Netherlands, representing various Islamic organizations, welcomed the incoming coalition's willingness to engage in dialogue after what it described as an adversarial relationship with the Schoof government. However, the organization expressed concern about provisions in the coalition agreement emphasizing cultural conformity and Dutch values.

"We hope for a more constructive relationship," said platform spokesperson Muhsin Koktas. "But we remain watchful. Integration should be a two-way process, not simply demands for assimilation."

Business groups have emphasized the need for labor migration to address workforce shortages, particularly in healthcare, technology, and agriculture. The coalition agreement acknowledges these needs but provides few specifics on how labor migration will be managed alongside asylum policy.

Looking Ahead

The new cabinet's swearing-in on 23 February will mark the formal transition from the Schoof caretaker government to the Jetten administration. CDA's Bart van den Brink will become Minister for Asylum and Migration, while Tom Berendsen takes over Foreign Affairs. The minority coalition will need to build majorities in parliament for any significant policy changes.

For asylum seekers and migrants already in the Netherlands, the practical impact of the government change may be limited. Processing backlogs, housing shortages, and integration challenges will persist regardless of which parties hold power. What changes is the frame through which policy is discussed and the priorities that guide decision-making.

The coming months will reveal whether the D66-VVD-CDA coalition can maintain its unity on migration issues while governing as a minority. With the PVV under Geert Wilders remaining the largest party in parliament, any perception that the government is softening asylum policy could provide political ammunition for the opposition. The coalition will need to balance humanitarian concerns, European obligations, and domestic political pressures in one of the most challenging policy areas facing the Netherlands.