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Housing Shortage in Dutch Cities: Does the Equation Still Add Up?

man standing in front of brown concrete building

Introduction: A Growing Housing Crisis in the NetherlandsThe Netherlands faces a critical housing shortage, with a deficit of over 401,000 homes as of 2025. The Dutch government aims to build 900,000 new homes by 2030, targeting 100,000 homes annually. However, project developers encounter significant hurdles. Government and municipal policies mandating a mix of social, mid-range, …

Obedience to Authority, the Peter Principle, and Diploma Culture in the Netherlands

photo of man and woman talking to each other

In the Netherlands, obedience to authority, the Peter Principle, and the diploma culture play significant roles in shaping organizational dynamics across both private and public sectors. These three elements influence career progression, promotion practices, and the acceptance or challenge of authority. This article explores the interplay between these concepts, identifies the sectors where they are …

The Rising Threat of Child Exploitation in the EU and Netherlands: A Complex Web of Immigration, Policy Failures, and Societal Neglect

brown teddy bear on brown wooden bench outside

The European Union (EU), and particularly the Netherlands, faces a growing crisis of child exploitation and trafficking, exacerbated by a combination of increasing not-skilled and immigration for illicit purposes, the lingering effects of disastrous COVID-19 policies, and the open-border Schengen Agreement. This article delves into the interconnected factors fueling this alarming trend, drawing on insights …

Growth of Central Government and Complexity: A Vicious Cycle of Problematic Policy Files

european commission flags on poles

The Dutch government faces a growing number of complex and persistent policy challenges, from the childcare benefits scandal to systemic debt issues. This trend correlates with three interconnected factors: institutional expansion, fragmented legislation, and the rise of politically aligned NGOs acting as buffers between the state and citizens.

War, Propaganda, and Heroes: A Deep Dive into Dutch Involvement in Conflicts and the Perception of War Heroes

soldier on the ground holding a rifle

War is a complex and often misunderstood subject, steeped in layers of propaganda, societal perceptions, and hidden narratives. While it is a topic many shy away from due to its intricacies, understanding the historical and psychological dimensions of conflict is crucial. This article explores the Netherlands’ involvement in lesser-known wars and conflicts since 1900, the …

Understanding France’s Social Challenges: Insights for Dutch Travelers

France remains a beloved destination for Dutch travelers, offering rich cultural experiences, diverse landscapes, and culinary excellence. However, beneath its iconic charm, the country faces significant social and economic challenges that shape daily life. Drawing from the 2024 Annual Report on the State of France by the Conseil économique, social et environnemental (CESE), this article …

Fueling Mind and Body: How Modern Diets Contribute to Burnout and Mental Stress”

cooked food

Introduction In a world driven by convenience, we increasingly reach for ready-made meals, snacks, and soft drinks. These products are often ultra-processed, nutrient-poor, yet packed with sugar, refined carbohydrates, trans fats, and artificial additives. At the same time, we are witnessing a dramatic rise in mental exhaustion, concentration issues, and burnout. Is this mere coincidence? …

Criminal Payments in the Netherlands and the EU: Cash vs. Cryptocurrency. An analysis of financial flows, policy, and the call for a crypto ban

Introduction: Halsema’s Call for a Crypto Ban In April 2025, Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema sparked political controversy by advocating for a nationwide ban on cryptocurrency payments. Her argument: cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin enable organized crime through anonymity and cross-border transactions. But does this align with the reality of criminal financial flows? This article analyzes data from …