A recent dissertation by criminologist Ruben Timmerman sheds light on the harsh realities faced by foreign workers in the Netherlands, revealing systemic issues of exploitation and substandard working conditions across various sectors. Timmerman’s year-long undercover investigation, detailed in his book “Through Invisible Hands,” exposes the vulnerabilities of labor migrants in construction, food processing, and logistics.

Timmerman’s research highlights that labor migrants are often subjected to dangerous and exploitative conditions due to an economic necessity that forces them to accept substandard employment. He recounts an incident where he and a colleague, both inexperienced, were tasked with removing ceiling supports on a construction site. After an accident where his colleague injured his hand, the worker was afraid to report it, fearing job loss. This is but one of many instances of abuse Timmerman observed, showcasing the lack of regard for worker safety and well-being.

The criminologist argues that the system is rotten, with companies strategically delegating responsibilities to employment agencies to minimize costs and avoid direct involvement in unethical practices. He points out that the pressure to keep costs down leads employment agencies to cut corners, often resulting in wage theft, unpaid overtime, and a general disregard for labor laws. Companies are aware of these issues but choose to remain ignorant as long as the costs remain low.

Timmerman emphasizes the dehumanization of labor migrants, who are often seen as mere ‘hands’ to fill labor shortages. This is evident in the discriminatory treatment they face, including lower wages, worse working conditions, and derogatory remarks from Dutch workers.

Timmerman advocates for restricting the employment sector and ensuring temporary work is used solely for its intended purpose: peak periods, illnesses, and connecting job seekers to employers. He also suggests the need to redefine what constitutes fair and decent work, addressing issues such as uncertain contracts, inadequate housing, and the vulnerability of labor migrants to poverty.

The study reveals labor market polarization, with Dutch workers increasingly filling high-skilled positions, while labor migrants are relegated to low-paid, often dangerous jobs. Timmerman believes that the Netherlands has the potential to lead in improving working conditions, even in the lowest-paid jobs.

According to DenkWerk, labor migrants constitute a significant portion of the workforce in certain sectors, with one in eight employees in greenhouse horticulture and slaughterhouses, seven in ten in distribution centers, and at least one in five in construction being foreign workers. Timmerman’s research brings attention to the urgent need for systemic change to protect labor migrants and ensure fair and ethical working conditions for all.