Story perspectives

Violent Protests Erupt in The Hague Over Immigration Policies

9/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

On September 20, 2025, thousands protested in The Hague against immigration policies, resulting in violent clashes with police.
Police used water cannons and tear gas after protesters blocked a highway and attacked vehicles.
Right-wing activist Els Rechts organized the protest, opposing asylum seekers and advocating for housing reforms.
Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), condemned the violence but did not attend.
The unrest precedes the October 29 snap elections after the right-wing coalition collapsed.

History

Historical Context

The European migrant crisis escalated in 2015, with over 90,000 asylum applications in the Netherlands, sparking protests in cities like The Hague. Right-wing groups, including the Party for Freedom (PVV), opposed these developments, reflecting deepening political polarization. As tensions rise ahead of the October 29 snap elections, activists like Els Rechts mobilize against asylum seekers, highlighting ongoing immigration policy debates.

1 of 2

Story summary

On September 20, 2025, thousands protested in The Hague against immigration policies, resulting in violent clashes with police.
Police used water cannons and tear gas after protesters blocked a highway and attacked vehicles.
Right-wing activist Els Rechts organized the protest, opposing asylum seekers and advocating for housing reforms.
Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), condemned the violence but did not attend.
The unrest precedes the October 29 snap elections after the right-wing coalition collapsed.

1 / 2