Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

As someone who has chosen to build a life in the Netherlands, I deeply value the country's commitment to inclusivity, democratic values, and social cohesion. The current five-year naturalization period reflects a fair balance between integration and recognition of long-term commitment to Dutch society.

Extending this period to ten years may unintentionally discourage integration rather than promote it. Many expats actively participate in their communities, learn the language, and contribute economically and socially well before the five-year mark. Delaying access to citizenship could create a sense of prolonged exclusion, making it harder for individuals to fully engage in civic life, including voting and public service.

Moreover, such a change might disproportionately affect families, especially children who grow up here and feel Dutch in every way. Stretching the timeline risks sending the message that full inclusion is being postponed.

I believe that strengthening integration efforts—through education, language support, and community engagement—is a more constructive path than extending the waiting period. A five-year framework encourages people to invest in their future here, knowing that their efforts will be recognized in a reasonable time.