Mass deportations of migrants from Germany to the Netherlands, the Dutch government’s inability to respond effectively, and growing public frustration have created the backdrop for the emergence of civilian patrols along the Dutch-German border. Although these actions are illegal, they have received support from Geert Wilders, the leader of the conservative Party for Freedom (PVV), who is calling for the deployment of the military to the border and accuses the Prime Minister of inaction.
Civic Response to the Migration Crisis
On Saturday, June 7, a group of individuals wearing reflective vests and carrying flashlights began inspecting vehicles along national road 408, which connects the German town of Haren (Ems) with the Dutch asylum center in Ter Apel. While not a formally organized movement, the operation was reportedly coordinated via social media, according to De Gelderlander.
“Such activities may only be carried out by the police. These kinds of actions pose significant dangers on public roads,” warned the municipality of Westerwolde and local police in a joint statement.
Despite the prohibition, social media platforms have seen growing calls to continue the patrols in the days to come.
Government Under Pressure, Wilders Declares Political War
The Dutch government has already shown signs of strain. On May 3, the four-party coalition—of which Wilders’ Party for Freedom held the most seats—collapsed, largely due to disagreements over adopting stricter asylum policies.
Acting Minister for Migration David van Weel issued a public appeal, urging citizens not to take matters into their own hands, emphasizing that border enforcement is the responsibility of the proper authorities.
“The influx of asylum seekers must be reduced. That’s why we are striving for stricter asylum regulations and better border control. Public frustration is understandable, but individuals must not take the law into their own hands. Let the police and border guard do their job. Obey the law,” van Weel stressed.
In contrast, Geert Wilders praised the civilian patrols, calling them a “fantastic initiative.”
“Such actions should take place along the entire border,” he stated.
He also criticized the minister’s inaction, addressing him directly.
“You weakling. You’re doing absolutely nothing. You could have deployed the military long ago and sent all asylum seekers back under Article 72 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union—just as Germany is doing,” Wilders wrote on X (formerly Twitter), referring to van Weel.
Wilders announced that he would personally participate in the next civilian patrol unless the government takes decisive action.
Background to the Crisis: German Hypocrisy and the EU Migration Pact
The current tensions have deeper roots. Germany’s left-liberal migration policies—long encouraging migrant arrivals—are now causing turmoil across Europe. Under the framework of the so-called Migration Pact, Germany has begun returning migrants to neighboring countries, including the Netherlands. This has triggered frustration and political backlash, ultimately leading to the collapse of the Dutch government.
Citing Article 72 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), Geert Wilders argues that the Netherlands should follow Germany’s example and take independent measures to secure its borders.
A similar situation has recently been unfolding in Poland, where government inaction has likewise sparked civic responses. In reaction, Robert Bąkiewicz has launched the Border Defense Movement, whose members have also begun monitoring the Polish-German border over the past week.