Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

This objection is submitted in strong opposition to the proposed bill that seeks to amend the Kingdom Act on Dutch Citizenship (NWN) by extending the general naturalization period from five to ten years. The bill's stated purpose of implementing a longer path to citizenship is fundamentally flawed, counterproductive to the goals of a cohesive society, and creates unnecessary and unjustifiable barriers for individuals who are already integral members of Dutch society.


*1. The Proposed Extension Hinders, Rather Than Fosters, Integration*

The core premise of this bill, that a longer waiting period is a prerequisite for successful integration, is a dangerous and misguided assumption. True integration is not a waiting game; it is an active and dynamic process of participation and belonging. By extending the naturalization period to a decade, the government is creating a prolonged state of legal and social limbo for thousands of individuals. This not only delays their ability to fully participate in civic life—such as by voting in national elections—but also undermines their long-term security and sense of belonging. A ten-year wait discourages a full commitment to Dutch society and can lead to a feeling of marginalization, thereby slowing down successful participation in the labour market, education, and local communities.

*2. The Bill is Unjust and Disproportionately Punitive*

Extending the waiting period for naturalization unfairly penalizes individuals who are already contributing positively to the Netherlands. Many migrants and residents, after five years of legal residency, are already working, paying taxes, and actively contributing to the Dutch economy and social fabric.

*3. Negative Societal Consequences and Erosion of Trust*

A prolonged and more difficult path to citizenship can have severe negative consequences for social cohesion. By creating a distinct and lengthy category of "non-citizens" who are nonetheless permanent residents, the government risks fostering a sense of "us versus them." This can erode social trust and lead to a more fragmented society.

This bill is a step backward for the Netherlands. It is based on a flawed premise, lacks a compelling justification, and risks creating a more divided and less cohesive society. We urge the government to reject this proposal in its entirety and instead pursue policies that actively promote belonging, trust, and full participation for all members of our communities.