Setback for the D66 party after its senators opposed strict asylum laws
D66 senators are set to oppose strict new asylum laws, even though the coalition government of D66, VVD, and CDA included the measures in its programme. The proposals aim to limit residency permits, create a two-tier asylum system, and criminalize living in the Netherlands without legal status.
While D66 previously criticized the plans under far-right PVV asylum minister Marjolein Faber, the party now faces a dilemma as coalition members want the laws enacted to avoid delays in reforming the asylum system. Leader and prospective prime minister Rob Jetten called the measures necessary for clarity in policy.
However, D66 senator and asylum spokesperson بوريس ديتريخ emphasized that the party’s seven members in the Senate are not bound by the coalition agreement. He objected to criminalizing illegal residence, calling it “inhumane,” and argued that existing laws are sufficient to handle problematic cases.
One contentious aspect, the so-called “soup clause,” would have criminalized helping undocumented asylum seekers, including acts of charity. A compromise guidance note, or novelle, was introduced to ensure aid like providing food would not be punished. D66 senators also oppose the two-status model, which assigns different asylum chances based on the threat level from an applicant’s home country, citing its previous legal complications.
If D66 votes against the laws in the Senate, coalition partners VVD and CDA could rely on support from BBB and JA21, but would still need at least nine additional votes. Potential backing could come from PVV, FVD, and CU, leaving the legislation’s future uncertain.