Introduction

The Netherlands has a reputation as a progressive and tolerant nation that has embraced progressive politics such as the legalization of soft drugs and same-sex marriage. Historically a progressive frontrunner in migration issues, the Netherlands had prided itself for decades on the alleged success of its policy of “integration with preservation of one’s original culture”. The Netherlands proudly claimed a vanguard position in extending rights to immigrants, such as the right to vote in local elections and dual citizenship. Recently, however, the country has entered into a state of shock with the murders of the politician Pim Fortuyn (in 2002) and the film director Theo van Gogh (in 2004). Both were known for their critical views regarding Islam. Since the murder of Fortuyn, questions have been raised to address the Netherlands’ diversion from multicultural tolerance and acceptance. In this website, we will try to re-create the tensions that arose after the killings of Fortuyn and van Gogh, and will specifically reflect upon the different arguments and views regarding tolerance, migration, multicultural identity and integration that have been brought forth. We also include the Dutch colonial history in this discussion and expand our focus on the Netherlands to the entire Benelux-area, including both Belgium and Luxembourg.

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This page was last modified 02:34, 28 September 2009.