Dutch citizens organized a public gathering to monitor the border with Germany and prevent the entry of asylum seekers into the Netherlands. They assembled at the border areas of Ter Apel and Rütenbrock, with German and Dutch police present on either side. The Dutch participants carried lighted batons and wore reflective vests, stopping cars on the Federal Highway 408 to inspect for asylum seekers. According to De Gelderlander newspaper, a participant in the initiative remarked, “Nothing is happening, so we will handle it.” Additionally, calls have circulated on social media to expand the initiative to cover all border areas.
These actions have sparked mixed reactions. The municipality of Westerwolde described the measure as extremely dangerous, arguing that stopping and searching cars—and preventing asylum seekers from applying for asylum—violates the law. This concern was echoed in a report issued a few days ago by the Court of Audit, evaluating the first four months of the government’s border control measures. The Dutch police also warned that citizens conducting car searches is illegal. In a joint statement with the municipality of Westerwolde, the police emphasized that “such actions create extremely dangerous situations on and along the roads.”
On the other hand, Geert Wilders, leader of the right-wing Party for Freedom (PVV), expressed strong support for the citizens’ initiative to take border control into their own hands. He described the effort as “wonderful” and called for it to be implemented across all border areas.
“Let’s do it ourselves, and I’d be happy to join the next border inspection,” Wilders said.
Wilders notably withdrew from the government due to its failure to implement a strict immigration policy. In the wake of his departure, the three remaining parties are now competing to demonstrate their ability to tighten immigration measures and take over the immigration agenda previously held by the Freedom Party.
Justice Minister David van Weel, who is currently handling the asylum portfolio on an interim basis, urged citizens to respect the rule of law. Speaking on behalf of the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), Van Weel acknowledged public frustration but cautioned against taking matters into their own hands.
“The influx of asylum seekers must be reduced, which is why we are advocating for stricter asylum laws and stronger border controls,” he said. “Frustration is understandable, but do not enforce the law yourselves. Let the police and border authorities do their jobs. Respect the law.”
