Hague - Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's resignation has triggered the need for a general election later this year. Rutte and his government will continue in a caretaker capacity until a new ruling coalition is formed. The collapse of the Dutch government was a result of irreconcilable differences within the four-party coalition regarding migration policies, which have been a divisive issue across Europe.

The ideological divisions became apparent during late-night meetings held by Rutte on migration policy, which ultimately failed to reach a consensus. The coalition partners could not reconcile their differing views, leading to the decision that they could not continue together in the coalition.

The issue of migration has been prominent in the Netherlands, a nation caught between its welcoming international outreach and growing resistance to foreign influences. The coalition had been working for months to find a solution to reduce the influx of new migrants. Proposed measures included creating two categories of asylum and limiting family reunification for asylum-seekers.

The strain caused by the high number of arrivals has impacted housing availability in the densely populated country. In 2022, over 21,500 individuals from outside Europe sought asylum in the Netherlands, with tens of thousands more moving to the country for work and study.

The resignation of Rutte and the subsequent general election will take place in a polarized political landscape, with a splintered political scene comprising 20 parties in the lower house of parliament. The outcome of the election will shape the future direction of migration policies in the Netherlands.