A new study by the Netherlands Institute for Social Research (SCP) indicates that social class is a more significant determinant of an individual’s position in society than their geographic location within the Netherlands. The research, titled “Divided Across the Country,” challenges the notion that regional disparities are the primary driver of inequality.

While some regional differences exist, such as the concentration of wealth in Utrecht and the vulnerability of residents in Oost-Groningen and Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, the study emphasizes that these contrasts are relatively minor compared to the disparities between social classes. The SCP identified seven distinct social classes based on economic, cultural, social, and personal capital, and found that individuals within the same social class share more similarities regardless of their location.

The research also examined subjective perceptions and beliefs, revealing that geographical differences are less pronounced than those between social classes. For instance, individuals from lower classes tend to perceive their social standing similarly across the country, while those in the working upper class report comparable levels of well-being, irrespective of their location.

One notable exception is resentment towards national politics in The Hague, which shows a strong correlation with geographic location. Residents of areas like Delfzijl, Oost-Groningen, and North Drenthe, even those in higher social classes, often feel that their needs are overlooked by national policies.

Cok Vrooman, an SCP researcher, highlights that the study aims to address the misconception that regional contrasts are the most critical dimension of inequality in the Netherlands. Despite the relatively compact and densely populated nature of the country, with good infrastructure and a well-developed welfare state, this idea prevails.

Although the study doesn’t provide strong statistical evidence of significant structural inequality between regions, the feeling of being left behind is real and often stems from issues like earthquakes, nitrogen problems, and a lack of affordable housing. Vrooman suggests that these problems require national-level solutions, as they often result from national policies. The SCP hopes that their research will contribute to a more informed public debate and help to address structural inequality effectively.