Far-right Surge Fuels Anxiety Among Dutch Muslims Ahead of Snap election
The Hague, Netherlands – As the Netherlands prepares for a snap general election, a growing sense of unease is gripping the Muslim community, fueled by what observers describe as a normalization of open hostility and increasingly prominent far-right rhetoric. Concerns center on the scapegoating of asylum-seekers and a hardening of anti-immigrant sentiment spilling from politics into public life,prompting a surge in activism and a renewed push for political engagement within the community.
The escalating tensions come amid a campaign largely focused on blaming asylum-seekers – who represent a small percentage of the country’s migrant population – for societal problems like the housing crisis and strains on the welfare state,according to Imane Lauret,of the Dutch Council for Refugees. “Asylum seekers and residence permit holders have wrongly been stigmatised as being responsible for all kinds of problems in society,” Lauret stated in an email. “Refugees come here seeking safety; thay are fleeing war and violence. Thes people deserve humanity, not politicians blaming them for everything that goes wrong.”
The rise in far-right discourse is visible in increased protests against new asylum centers and violent demonstrations, Lauret noted. Simultaneously, this climate has unexpectedly bolstered support for organizations advocating for migrants’ rights, with a noticeable increase in volunteer numbers.
“Some in the Islamic community, they are asking whether we belong here. And they’re worried about it,” said Muhsin Drenth, reflecting anxieties within the community. ”But on the other hand, we see that yes, we do belong here. And that’s why we are stepping up for our rights.”
This sentiment is echoed by Fatima Kendir, who emphasizes a growing determination among Dutch Muslims – many of whom are second or third-generation citizens – to actively shape the country’s future. “There’s a strong sense now that silence is not an option,” Kendir said. “So we see more young Muslims getting politically active,informed and engaged.We want a Netherlands that takes equality seriously. Not just as a slogan, but in real policy and daily life.”
