On Friday, the Netherlands announced strict new measures to combat an out-of-control immigration situation in the nation. In addition, the country will formally request to opt out of the European Union’s lax asylum and immigration policies at a meeting of the European Commission in Brussels next week.
The Immigration Problem
Last year, nearly 50,000 migrants, mostly from Africa and the Middle East, sought asylum in the northwestern European nation, an increase from 35,000 in 2022.
According to an announcement from the Ministry of Asylum and Migration (Google translation):
The Netherlands cannot cope with the large numbers of migrants. Asylum reception is overcrowded, procedures take too long and costs are skyrocketing. In addition, the continuing influx of asylum seekers is causing problems in the areas of public housing, health care and education.
To regain control of the situation, this government is implementing the strictest asylum regime ever. … By limiting inflow, speeding up procedures, taking immediate action against offenders, tightening border control, restricting family reunification options, and focusing heavily on returns, the Netherlands aims to become a leader in Europe regarding admission rules.
“The voters have given a clear mandate. We need to change course and the influx must be reduced immediately. We are taking measures to make the Netherlands as unattractive as possible for asylum seekers. And there is no place here for anyone who abuses our hospitality. I am going for a safer Netherlands,” said Minister of Asylum and Migration Marjolein Faber. […]
— Read More: thenewamerican.com
