After World War II, the Netherlands faced significant economic and labor shortages due to the devastation of the war. To rebuild its economy and support industrial growth, the Dutch government implemented various labor migration policies, bringing in foreign workers, particularly from Southern Europe and later from North Africa and Turkey. Here are the key aspects of these schemes:
Post-War Economic Recovery and Labor Shortages

The Netherlands needed workers for industries like construction, manufacturing, and mining.
The Dutch economy was rapidly growing during the post-war period, leading to a high demand for low-skilled labor.
Dutch nationals were reluctant to take on certain physically demanding jobs, leading to the need for migrant labor.

Guest Worker Programs (1950s–1970s)

Southern European Migration: In the 1950s, workers were recruited from Italy and Spain.
Turkish and Moroccan Migration: In the 1960s and 1970s, agreements were signed with Turkey (1964) and Morocco (1969), leading to an influx of workers.
These agreements allowed foreign workers to enter the Netherlands on temporary contracts to fill labor gaps.
The initial expectation was that these workers would return to their home countries after a few years.

Shift from Temporary to Permanent Migration

Many guest workers stayed in the Netherlands permanently due to economic instability in their home countries.
Family reunification policies in the 1970s allowed workers to bring their families, leading to long-term settlement.
The Dutch government had to adjust its policies, offering integration programs and Dutch language education for migrants and their children.

Impact on Dutch Society

The presence of migrant workers contributed to the Netherlands' economic boom.
However, challenges arose regarding integration, housing shortages, and cultural differences.
Over time, migration policies became stricter, especially during economic downturns in the late 20th century.

its morbidly fascinating what is happening in Ukraine. The sheer audacity of the EU is astounding. Also i thought Ukraine only lost 40,000, what are they on about ? im so despondent about this conflict right now.

This post was edited by ferdia on Mar 21 2025 05:25am

what a hilariously quick turnaround. UK now also saying they'll send zero security troops without US backing.

isn't it funny how NATO is SO IMPORTANT, and NATO troops from any member magically create a do not strike zone. but then push comes to shove and its US troops or nothing. so they can pull out sooner and leave us with the long term occupation.

EU ready to fill US gaps, until the tab comes. then it's back to begging the nation they want to give up their guns to play world police.

So all of Europe's problems really are caused by Europeans refusing to do real work

This is why America and Russia are so powerful while Europe is so gay - work ethic

the point i am making is that ukraine has under reported its losses. if they dont have the men they have to get men, from somewhere. just like holland had to.

This post was edited by ferdia on Mar 21 2025 09:12am

Diversity is never the strength when gearing up for war. Where's Muhammad or Tyrone in the ad? Why is it filled with a bunch of Henrik's and Friedrich's?

just take a page out of the US book. irish straight off the boats were drafted for the civil war. just take in syrian refugees and send them to Ukraine.

FAB-9000 on the left