Amsterdam city councillors are set to vote on a motion to enhance the integration of international workers in the city. The proposal, titled “Make Amsterdam Your Home,” is a revised plan from the local Labour and PvdA party. The plan aims to foster a stronger connection between international workers and the local community.

The revised plan encourages collaboration between the council, companies employing foreign workers, community groups, and educational organizations. The goal is to develop a program for new arrivals, offering language and city history lessons. Additionally, the program will provide an overview of clubs, societies, and volunteer organizations, and facilitate meetings between newcomers and long-term residents.

The plan also encourages discussions with companies about their potential contributions to alleviate the city’s housing shortage, following the example of ASML’s investment in social housing in the Eindhoven region. Lian Heinhuis, leader of the local Labour and PvdA party, emphasized the need for companies to contribute to the city’s liveability and the well-being of their employees and neighbors.

However, not all city councillors agree with the plan’s approach. Erik Schmit, a D66 councillor, cautioned against placing the responsibility for affordable housing and social cohesion solely on knowledge migrants, who constitute a small percentage of Amsterdam’s population. He stressed that social cohesion issues are not solely attributable to expats.

A 2022 study by the International Community Advisory Panel revealed that discrimination is a significant challenge for the international community in the Netherlands. Only one-third of the respondents reported not experiencing discrimination. The study also highlighted key factors for feeling at home, including friendly neighbors, access to help, Dutch language skills, and Dutch friends.