The Situation of Women of a Refugee and Immigrant Background in the Netherlands

Abstract

The problem of discrimination and unequal treatment of women from culturally diverse backgrounds affects countries such as the Netherlands. The centuries of tolerance and openness to an “alien” seem to be ending. This is evidenced by numerous reports and scientifi c studies, statements from specialists, and experts on the issues of immigrant integration. Increasingly, feeling marginalised and deprived of development opportunities, immigrant or refugee women come to the fore. Some of them (those remaining in isolation) are represented by aid organisations, i.e. foundations, associations, volunteer groups, and the municipalities themselves. This article covers the existing issue of the increasing number of refugees and immigrants in the Netherlands, especially refugee and immigrant women towards whom, according to specialists, integration policy should be redefi ned.