Dutch Parties Prioritize limiting Migration Over social Cohesion, Planning Agency finds
The Hague - A new analysis by the Netherlands Institute for Social Research (SCP) reveals that Dutch political parties are heavily focused on restricting migration, while largely neglecting detailed plans for fostering social cohesion in an already diverse society. The SCP assessed the election manifestos of ten parties – BBB, CDA, D66, GroenLinks-PvdA, JA21, NSC, Party for the Animals, PVV, SP and VVD – based on their representation in the House of Representatives or prominence in the Peilingwijzer polling data as of August 31, 2025.
The report highlights a disconnect between public concern regarding social interaction in a diverse Netherlands and the attention given to this issue by the parties. “The diverse society requires investments in good coexistence and to combat polarization,” stated SCP director Karen van Oudenhoven, urging parties to address “how we want to live together in a diverse society, while also paying attention to the interests of people from minority groups.” Van Oudenhoven emphasized that diversity is a current reality, stating, “Even if we close the borders, that is still the case.”
while all ten parties express support for greater social cohesion, their approaches differ. PVV, JA21, and VVD prioritize Dutch culture, while SP, groenlinks-PvdA, and the Party for the Animals emphasize solidarity. CDA, BBB, and NSC focus on local communities, and D66 centers on individual rights and freedoms. Despite these differing approaches, all parties acknowledge the importance of good neighborly relations, community gatherings, and proficiency in the dutch language.
The SCP also noted a lack of planning for societal preparedness for crises – such as war, power outages, or natural disasters – despite significant attention given to these potential events in party manifestos. the agency advocates for investment in social infrastructure like community centers, libraries, and welfare programs to bolster solidarity and support during emergencies, referencing lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Echoing a previous assessment from the 2023 elections, the SCP cautioned parties against overpromising and avoiding difficult choices, warning that this erodes public trust in politics.
