With the local elections just over two weeks away, DutchNews.nl has launched a special section on its website featuring news, information and a focus on five issues of particular interest to internationals.

The 2014 local election pages include links to political websites – particularly those in English – plus information about who can vote.

Based on the responses to a readers poll, DutchNews.nl asked the main parties in Amsterdam and The Hague to state their position on five big issues picked by its international readership.

Their replies have been compiled into special pages focusing on the two main cities. The website section also includes summaries of the political situation in several other cities including Rotterdam, Eindhoven and Utrecht.

Answers

‘Unfortunately, we don’t have the resources to cover the entire country, but the responses we have had give a good indication of where the parties stand on key issues such as housing, job creation and integration,’ said DutchNews.nl editor Robin Pascoe.

‘Hundreds of thousands of non-Dutch nationals will be able to vote in these elections, so it is crucial that people make their voices heard.’

One issue which shows how divided the parties are is that of the ‘particpation declaration‘ which social affairs minister Lodewijk Asscher wants to introduce for all foreigners.

For example, D66 in Amsterdam says it is strongly opposed to the city taking part in the pilot scheme. The VVD, by contrast, states it is ‘not against signing a declaration which clarifies the rights, obligations and fundamental values of Dutch society’.

Both Amsterdam and The Hague city councils are organising special election debates with internationals and expats in mind.

If you have any suggestions for election resources and information targeting international voters, please email editor@dutchnews.nl.