Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

This proposed change would have negative social, economic, and moral consequences for both immigrants and Dutch society as a whole.

1. Integration should be encouraged, not delayed

Citizenship is one of the most powerful tools for integration. It gives residents a real stake in their communities and strengthens their sense of belonging. Doubling the waiting period risks alienating long-term residents who already contribute to the economy, pay taxes, and abide by Dutch laws.
Instead of motivating integration, this measure would delay it, keeping people in a state of uncertainty and partial participation for an unnecessarily long period.

2. The current five-year requirement already ensures commitment

Five years of legal residence is a substantial period during which individuals demonstrate stability, respect for Dutch laws, and connection to the country. Extending this to ten years does not necessarily prove greater commitment—it merely creates additional barriers for those who are already part of Dutch society.

3. Economic and demographic needs

The Netherlands, like many European countries, faces labor shortages and needs skilled, stable, and invested residents. Making citizenship harder to obtain could discourage talented workers, entrepreneurs, and international students from choosing the Netherlands, thereby weakening its global competitiveness.

4. Equality and fairness

This change would create a two-tier society: people who live, work, and pay taxes but are denied full participation in democracy for a decade. Denying them voting rights and security for such an extended time is inconsistent with the Netherlands’ values of fairness, inclusion, and democracy.

5. Social cohesion and long-term stability

Citizenship fosters a sense of unity and shared identity. Prolonging the path to citizenship risks creating divisions between citizens and long-term residents, which could undermine trust and social cohesion rather than strengthen it.

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For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Dutch Parliament to reject the proposed extension and maintain the five-year requirement for naturalization.
This balanced and reasonable standard supports integration, stability, and fairness—values that reflect the best traditions of Dutch democracy.