Many Dutch people take a more nuanced view of asylum seekers and foreign workers than the political debate would suggest, the government’s socio-cultural think tank SCP said in a new report on Tuesday.

While one-third think the Netherlands should close its borders to asylum seekers, one in 10 believe the country should take in more people. Meanwhile, 58% say the Netherlands has a moral obligation to accept “real refugees” fleeing war and violence.

When it comes to migrant labour, most people recognise that the Netherlands cannot do without its foreign workforce, who often take on jobs that locals are unwilling to do, the survey shows.

The debate around migration has become polarised because of the emotions it provokes, the SCP said. “It impacts on fundamental discussions about what it means to be Dutch and about belonging and being included,” the agency said.

“This study indicates that the solution to concerns about migration should not be sought only in migration policy. It is important not only to shape migration policy but also to pay attention to the deeper concerns people have—such as the housing shortage and the lack of trust in politics.”

Younger people are more positive about migration than older generations, the SCP noted, as they are more accustomed to living in a diverse society than their parents and grandparents.

The emergence of political parties that base their campaigns on migration and integration has made it easier for dissatisfied citizens to express their views publicly. As a result, that dissatisfaction has become more visible and more central to how people define their political identity.

“It seems that supporters and opponents are increasingly polarised and no longer open to each other’s arguments or perspectives,” the SCP said.

For example, the research shows that 46% of the population would not want a refugee centre housing up to 50 people in their neighbourhood, while 43% would have no problem with it. Opposition increases as the proposed size of a centre grows.

Cultural diversity

At the same time, 40% of people think cultural diversity benefits society, while 25% disagree. And 75% believe that immigration has made it more difficult for people to find somewhere to live.

Researcher Jaco Dagevos told broadcaster NOS he hoped the report would draw more attention to the large group of people in the middle ground, who see both positive and negative aspects to migration.

A report by the government’s demographic development commission last year recommended setting a population ceiling of 19 to 20 million inhabitants as the best way to ensure future economic prosperity, given the ageing population.

The Dutch population currently stands at 18 million, with recent growth largely driven by immigration, mostly from other EU countries.

“A limit on growth means decisions have to be taken now about which sectors are essential to our future,” Dagevos said. “If we can do that, then hopefully the Dutch will feel that politicians have a grip on migration.”