Dutch border checks begin on Monday: Decision criticized by dozens of mayors, experts
The Netherlands will begin implementing new border checks on Monday in an effort to curb migration and human trafficking, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from dozens of mayors and members of the Tweede Kamer. Concerns have been raised about the feasibility and transparency of the plan.
The decision, spearheaded by Asylum and Migration Minister Marjolein Faber, aims to empower the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar) to conduct targeted border inspections based on risk analyses. These checks will take place at selected crossings rather than setting up broad checkpoints, which the government says will help avoid long delays.
Minister Faber defended the measure during a cabinet meeting on Friday, stating, "We must start somewhere. These checks will stop people who have no right to be here." She expressed confidence in the enhanced capabilities of the Marechaussee, which will be supported by an additional 150 million euros allocated for personnel, cameras, and other resources.
However, concerns over limited capacity remain. "The Marechaussee can only monitor a fraction of the crossings," admitted Faber. Despite this, she assured that the allocated funds and new technologies would enable more efficient inspections.
The announcement has sparked discontent among local governments, particularly in border municipalities. Forty-six mayors, led by Marjon de Hoon-Veelenturf of Baarle-Nassau, submitted a letter outlining their objections. Key issues include the potential disruption to daily cross-border commutes and a lack of clarity surrounding the implementation of the checks.
Following the letter, Faber met with representatives from border regions, including mayors from Oldambt and Winterswijk. While the minister promised to involve local leaders in evaluations after three and six months, she acknowledged that earlier consultation would have been beneficial.
"She has committed to better communication moving forward," said a spokesperson for Baarle-Nassau. The meeting was described as constructive.
The implementation plan has also faced intense scrutiny in the Tweede Kamer. Lawmakers have accused Faber of failing to provide adequate details about the operation, despite questions dating back to July. "Monday these checks will begin, and the chamber has zero information on how this will be managed," said D66 MP Anne-Marijke Podt during a heated debate on Thursday.
Minister Faber responded dismissively, claiming there is "nothing secretive" about the operation. However, opposition leaders expressed frustration at her perceived unwillingness to address concerns. "I find it unacceptable that you show so little motivation to properly inform us," Podt said.
Other parties, including Volt, NSC, and the Socialist Party (SP), echoed these criticisms, with SP leader Jimmy Dijk calling the government’s asylum policy short-sighted. The tension escalated when Faber rebuked Dijk, prompting criticism from GroenLinks-PvdA leader Frans Timmermans, who described her conduct as unbecoming of a government minister.
Minister Faber maintained that the measure is a necessary step to address unauthorized migration and smuggling. "This is about ensuring the safety and integrity of our borders," she said, adding that the Marechaussee has systems in place to prioritize high-risk areas for inspections.
