While a "yes" vote would not mean an immediate end to the association agreement, it would nevertheless force the Dutch government to consider the motion and its popular support. If the Netherlands does reject the association agreement, however, it would effectively mean the end for Ukraine`s EU association aspirations until the deal is again reconsidered.
"The Association Treaty with Ukraine, which has led to deteriorating relations between the West and Russia, is only an instrument to address a wider problem: the democratic deficit of the European Union," the referendum campaign website said.
The Dutch government now has six months to hold the referendum, as required by the country`s law.
The signature campaign for the referendum was initiated by the GeenPeil ("No Level") Eurosceptic group. GeenPeil states that the association agreement would cost Dutch taxpayers billions in aid packages and other initiatives.
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