Tue, 9 February 2010
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The author of the second article praised and admired Dutch achievements, culture and ways, and briefly touched on what seems to be the favourite Dutch hobby of all times: complaining and bickering.
It is true that a majority of the Dutch people like to complain about almost everything. It is also true that most Dutch people are not openly proud of their country. Nationalistic tendencies are usually frowned upon.
Maybe this has to do with the German occupation during the Second World War. Or, maybe with the fact that the Dutch living in a very small country located between the British Empire, the German Reich and the French, and in the meanwhile defying a dangerous and unpredictable sea, instinctively felt (and feel) that it pays to be inconspicuous. In that respect, moderate self-loathing and a bit of sarcasm and complaining paved the way.
In general though, most Dutch people are proud of who and what they are. The current prosperity, Dutch history and international stature of the Netherlands are items most Dutch citizens are particularly proud of.
These days the Dutch government is not too timid about making its voice heard. Recently, it was reported that the Dutch government remains in favour of setting up refugee camps outside of the European Union (EU), even though a vast majority of other EU states does not approve. And this brings me to the actual subject of this column: new developments within the EU and related EU policy.
A guide to telephone, internet and television along with utility services water, electricity and gas in the Netherlands.
Lost in the Dutch immigration system? Look no further than this guide compiled for our Survival Guide 2009.
Some basic facts and figures about living and working in the Netherlands.
The challenges and benefits of the maternity system in the Netherlands and how it differs to other countries.
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