While primarily focused on promoting the integration of migrants and refugees into Dutch society, this law acknowledges the role of cultural heritage in identity formation and social inclusion by promoting respect for cultural diversity, particularly in the “integration exams”.
The “Wet inburgering 2021” is the Civic Integration Act of 2021 in the Netherlands. This legislation outlines the requirements and processes for newcomers to integrate into Dutch society. The law places a greater emphasis on individual responsibility and participation in integration programs. It introduces changes such as personalized integration pathways, mandatory participation in integration courses for certain groups, and increased focus on language proficiency and societal orientation. The aim is to ensure that newcomers acquire the necessary language skills, knowledge, and abilities to participate fully in Dutch society, including in the job market. Additionally, the law includes measures to monitor and enforce compliance with integration obligations. Overall, the Integration Act of 2021 represents an effort to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of integration policies in the Netherlands.
The act pertains to Pillar 1 (Cultural heritage for an inclusive Europe: participation and access for all). The act pertains to the social aspect of the triple transformation.