Euroscepticism in the Netherlands: Implications for referenda, public approval and policies
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2024-08-31
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en
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This thesis examines the rise of Euroscepticism in the Netherlands between 1992 and 2020. It analyses various factors that might have influenced this degree of Euroscepticism during this period. Then these factors are examined on how they have affected public opinion, national referenda, and political policies. The study explores the impact of democratic deficiencies, socio-economic conditions, media coverage, and populist movements on Dutch Euroscepticism. Two major referenda, the 2005 European Constitution and the 2016 Association Agreement with Ukraine, are analyzed in detail, showcasing how various factors might have shaped the outcomes. This research finds that populist parties, like the PVV and Forum for Democracy, are benefitting on anti-EU sentiment, framing European integration as a threat to national sovereignty. This, combined with media influence and lack of representation, contributed to rising skepticism in the Netherlands. Pro-European movements, such as Volt Netherlands, emerged advocating for alternative forms of public participation, such as citizens assemblies. The thesis aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how various factors shape Euroscepticism, because there is not just one factor that causes Euroscepticism among citizens. Instead, there is a combination of factors present that together might influence this process.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen