INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Following his unexpected victory in the election, Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders initiated the official procedure to form a government
He faces the challenge of persuading hesitant opposition parties to join his administration as prime minister.Wilders's PVV Freedom Party's
significant triumph in Wednesday's election has drawn attention from Europe and beyond, as it caused a major political upheaval in the
Netherlands.Who is Geert Wilders?Wilders is the founder and leader of the Party for Freedom (Partij voor de Vrijheid, PVV), a right-wing
populist and anti-immigration party in the Netherlands.Early Life: He was born on September 6, 1963, in Venlo, the Netherlands.Political
Career Start: Wilders began his political career in the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), a liberal party, before breaking
away to form his own party.Formation of PVV: He established the PVV in 2006, focusing on issues such as anti-immigration, particularly
against non-Western immigrants, and criticism of Islam.Controversial views on Islam: Wilders is known for his controversial views on Islam,
which he has often described as a threat to Dutch culture and Western values.Legal issues: His outspoken views have led to legal challenges,
including a conviction for hate speech in 2016, which was later overturned on appeal.International attention: Wilders has gained
international attention for his stance on Islam and immigration, making him a polarizing figure both in the Netherlands and abroad.Security
concerns: Due to his controversial statements, Wilders has been under constant security protection for several years.Geert Wilders, known
for his anti-Islam, anti-immigrant views, could be the next PM of NetherlandsWilders' political stance and rhetoric against MuslimsWilders
has been outspoken in his criticism of Islam, often conflating the religion with extremism
He has made numerous statements that portray Islam as incompatible with Western values, contributing to a narrative that marginalizes and
communities, such as banning the Quran, closing mosques, and stopping immigration from Muslim countries
These proposals, if implemented, would directly impact the Muslim population in the Netherlands.Freedom Party's Platform: As the leader of
the Party for Freedom (PVV), Wilders has shaped its platform to reflect his views
The party's anti-immigration and anti-Islam policies have been central to its agenda, leading to concerns about institutionalized
discrimination and the erosion of multiculturalism.Impact on Dutch MuslimsFear of discrimination and marginalization: Wilders' rhetoric and
policies have the potential to legitimize and exacerbate discrimination against Muslims
There is a palpable fear that his election could lead to increased marginalization of Muslim communities in the Netherlands.Concerns over
personal safety: The rhetoric employed by Wilders can incite or justify hostility towards Muslims
This creates an environment where Dutch Muslims may fear for their personal safety and the safety of their families.Psychological Impact:
The constant negative portrayal of Islam and Muslims in political discourse can have a profound psychological impact on the Muslim
community, leading to feelings of alienation and a sense of not belonging in their own country.What Muslims are sayingSome Dutch Muslims
have reported feeling unwelcome, unwanted, and alienated in their own country
They have also faced increased hostility and hate speech from some segments of the society, especially on social media
Some have even considered leaving the Netherlands or renouncing their faith to avoid persecution."These election results are shocking for
We did not expect such a party with a programme that is against the basic principles of the rule of law to be so big," said Muhsin Koktas of
Muslim organization CMO."It was a blow I have to process," Abdessamad Taheri, a 45-year old community worker in the multi-ethnic
Schilderswijk neighbourhood in The Hague told Reuters.Habib El Kaddouri, who leads an organisation representing Dutch Moroccans, told
They have also sought to engage with other Dutch citizens and parties to promote dialogue, tolerance, and cooperation
of lawBroader European ContextWilders is part of a broader European trend of right-wing populism, which often targets Muslim communities
His success could embolden similar movements across Europe, affecting Muslims beyond the Netherlands.Impact on Multiculturalism: Europe has
long grappled with the concept of multiculturalism
A win for Wilders could be seen as a rejection of this idea, impacting the broader European approach to diversity and
integration.International relations: Wilders' stance on Islam and immigration could strain the Netherlands' relations with Muslim-majority
countries, affecting Dutch Muslims' connections with their countries of origin or heritage.(With inputs from agencies)
