In a significant development regarding migration policy, the Netherlands is considering relocating rejected asylum seekers to Uganda, according to Dutch media reports on Wednesday. This initiative is part of the far-right government’s broader strategy to limit immigration.
During a recent visit to Uganda, Dutch Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Minister Reinette Klever engaged in discussions with Ugandan officials concerning migration issues. Klever, a member of the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders, emphasized the government’s goal of reducing overall migration. “Our priority is ensuring that rejected asylum seekers return to their countries of origin, which can sometimes be a challenge,” she stated.
Highlighting the long-standing relationship between the Netherlands and Uganda, Klever described Uganda as a hospitable country. She indicated that Asylum and Migration Minister Marjolein Faber would further investigate the potential for collaboration on this issue.
In response to inquiries about Klever’s comments, a spokesperson for the ministry revealed that the discussions included various options for accommodating migrants in the region, including Uganda. “This plan is still in its initial phases,” noted Jeroen van Dommelen in an email, stressing the need for the Dutch cabinet to assess the interests of both Uganda and the Netherlands and consider legal possibilities.
The PVV’s victory in last year’s elections has propelled migration policy to the forefront of national discourse, with Wilders promising to implement “the strictest migration policy ever” to address what he calls an “asylum crisis” in the Netherlands.
Additionally, last week, EU countries convened to discuss innovative methods for enhancing the deportation of irregular migrants and rejected asylum seekers. This includes controversial proposals to establish dedicated return centers outside the EU. The rise of far-right political parties across Europe has elevated migration issues as home affairs ministers from the EU’s 27 member states met in Luxembourg ahead of an upcoming summit of EU leaders.
These discussions follow the EU’s recent adoption of a sweeping reform of its asylum policies, set to take effect in June 2026. This reform aims to tighten border procedures and requires member states to either accept asylum seekers from frontline countries or provide financial and logistical support.
