Regulating Migration in Europe: The Dutch Experience, 1960-92

Abstract

Like other West European countries, the Netherlands has become an immigration country against its will. Since 1960, three migration flows in particular have contributed to the migration surplus: labor migration from the Mediterranean area, migration from former Dutch colonies, and migration of international refugees. In each case, the measures taken by the Dutch government to regulate the migration have not been successful. This article analyzes why it is so difficult, if not impossible, to effectively implement migration regulations. A very important reason seems to be the contradictory aims of the welfare state that, on the one hand, tries to keep immigrants out but, on the other hand, seeks to ensure full civil rights for the immigrant population settled in the country.