Tight race in Dutch election as anti-Islam populist Wilders' hope of power declines

Wilders was the clear winner last time Dutch voters went to the polls in November 2023, but this time the race is far tighter.

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Wilders was the clear winner last time Dutch voters went to the polls in November 2023, but final opinion polls ahead of voting suggest a fall in his support.

Dutch voters are grappling with a series of crises, from a chronic housing shortage to overcrowded asylum centres. The cost of living is rising with sky-high rents and healthcare costs.

Unlike last time, Wilders' rivals are refusing to work with him after he brought down his own coalition government last June.

Voting at most of the country's more than 10,000 polling stations continues until 21:00 (20:00 GMT) on Wednesday.