The Netherlands, long known for its tolerant and open society, is taking a drastic turn in its immigration policies. The government has launched a crackdown on illegal aliens because of their drain on the economy as well as their potential threat to national security. Not surprisingly, human rights organization and EU officials have condemned the new policy saying it violates the rights of asylum seekers (even the fake ones).

During the first press conference Wilders announced he’ll be introducing the “toughest immigration policy the nation has ever seen”. His party, the PVV, and 3 other centrist and moderately right-wing parties have reached an agreement that includes the abolishment of indefinite asylum permits.

Another big promise is that asylum seekers who have been rejected will be “deported as much as possible, including by force.” Also, status holders will no longer be given priority in the allocation of social housing. Automatic family reunification will also be scrapped. Furthermore, the government will fight to opt out from the European Union’s asylum and migration policy. 

For the Dutch government, protection of its citizens, its national soverignty, and cultural identity remains paramount even if it means facing criticism and/or sanctions by the EU.