Netherlands Strengthens Efforts to Foster a Welcoming Environment for International Talent

Nuffic Supports Action Plan for Retaining International Graduates Amid Declining Skilled Worker Numbers

The Netherlands is adopting best practices to position itself as a hub for international talent by supporting a motion that urges the government to develop an action plan to encourage international students and skilled individuals to stay in the country post-graduation. Dutch universities, who have long advocated for strategies to retain the valuable contributions of international graduates, are backing this initiative.

In light of recent developments, the Netherlands is taking action to retain international talent and skilled workers in response to a decline in their numbers, as highlighted by recent data from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service. This worrying trend in the declining number of international workers prompted the government to create a more welcoming environment for global talent, ensuring that international graduates and skilled workers continue to contribute to the country's growth and innovation.

Nuffic, the Dutch organization for internationalization in education, expressed approval of the support from three out of four coalition parties for the resolution. They highlighted that it acknowledged the valuable contributions international talent makes to Dutch higher education, labour sectors, and the knowledge economy. A UNL spokesperson criticized the resolution, arguing that it contradicted the coalition parties' legislation and budget cuts. They warned that increasing the retention of international students would be ineffective if fewer students were coming to the Netherlands, even in sectors with labour shortages.

Some see the motion as a logical response to labour market gaps and a decline in international student numbers. A Nuffic spokesperson noted that the government has suggested a reduction in international students may not reduce retention, especially if more Dutch language and culture training is offered to help students secure jobs post-graduation. The government is pushing ahead with the 'Internationalisation in Balance' Bill, which aims to reduce English-taught degrees, potentially causing a sharp drop in international enrollments, according to UNL. A UNL spokesperson warned this could harm the quality of education, research, and the labour market in the Netherlands.

The government's internationalisation approach has faced criticism from border regions and large corporations relying on international talent. However, the passing of a motion proposed by Volt Europa, which received 101 votes in favour, suggests a shift. The resolution was supported by VVD, NSC, and BBB but opposed by the PVV. During the debate, the Dutch minister of employment supported the resolution, emphasizing its focus on retaining international students rather than attracting new ones. Meanwhile, UNL expressed uncertainty about the resolution's impact on the government's overall internationalisation policy.

The Netherlands is determined to retain international talent and skilled workers, aiming to foster a more welcoming environment for global talent and ensuring their continued contributions to the country's growth and innovation.

Editor's Note

The Dutch government is actively working to attract and retain international talent, recognizing the significant economic benefits this brings. International students play a crucial role in strengthening the country’s economy. According to an EP Nuffic study, non-EU students contribute approximately €96,000 each over their lifetime, while EU students contribute around €16,900. Overall, international students add about €1.57 billion annually to the Dutch economy. Furthermore, five years after graduation, around 29% of non-EU HBO students and 31% of non-EU WO students remain in the Netherlands, continuing to support economic growth. Despite some criticisms and challenges, the Netherlands is determined to create a more welcoming environment for global talent. By offering more Dutch language and culture training, the country aims to help international students secure jobs post-graduation. This approach benefits the students by providing them with valuable career opportunities and ensures their continued contributions to the country's growth and innovation.

Skoobuzz believes that the Netherlands remains committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for international talent, ensuring mutual growth and success for both the students and the Dutch economy.