ABSTRACT
Despite being conventionally depicted as an example of corporate pluralism, the Netherlands is currently closer to a cultural homogeneity or assimilationist regime (Entzinger 2003, Penninx 2006, Vasta 2007, Duyvendak et al. 2005). The most prominent goals pursued by national policies in the period of this study (2004‐2006) were strict migration control, return, and cultural adaptation of immigrants. The three main legislative efforts carried out in that period by Minister Verdonk are a clear illustration of these objectives: the Policy of Return (Terugkeerbeleid 2003), the Policy Proposal on Illegal Migration (Illegalennota 2004), and the modification of the Law of Civic Integration (Wet Inburgering 2006). Policy measures reflect the same priorities. On the external front, additional measures reinforce border surveillance and impose stricter rules of admission, particularly concerning family migration and asylum seekers. New measures seek not only to punish those who stay illegally in the country, but also those who assist them or benefit from them. On the internal front, compulsory civic integration tests have become the principle instrument for preserving national identity. These developments converge with a broader trend found in many European countries in recent years (Joppke & Morawska 2003, Joppke 2007).
