Criticism is mounting against the Dutch government following the release of a report detailing a rise in reported discrimination incidents in 2024. The report, compiled from data gathered by municipal anti-discrimination agencies, the police, Meld.Online Discriminatie, the Human Rights College, the National Ombudsman, and the Children’s Ombudsman, has prompted questions about the government’s approach to addressing bias and inequality.

The concerns were publicly voiced by Kamran Ullah, a commentator for De Telegraaf, who, in his column “De Krant van Kamran” on February 13, 2026, criticized what he described as a tendency for the government to overstep its bounds. Ullah specifically referenced a recent instance involving athlete Jutta Leerdam, arguing that initial criticism leveled against her prior to her Olympic success was excessive. He suggested her subsequent gold medal validated her independent approach.

Ullah’s commentary too addressed controversy surrounding a cartoon depicting FvD-leader Lidewij de Vos published in De Telegraaf, and focused on the newly released government report on discrimination. According to De Telegraaf, the newspaper’s editor-in-chief has raised concerns about the report’s methodology and conclusions.

The report itself indicates an increase in the number of registered discrimination incidents. Although, authorities acknowledge that these figures do not represent the full extent of discrimination within the Netherlands, as many instances go unreported to official channels like the police or dedicated reporting organizations. Discriminatie.nl, a key reporting organization, published its own report detailing the 2024 statistics, offering downloadable regional breakdowns for areas including Amsterdam, Limburg, and Noord-Holland.

The Staatscommissie tegen Discriminatie en Racisme (State Commission against Discrimination and Racism) is tasked with investigating discrimination and racism across all sectors of Dutch society, including within governmental bodies. The commission’s mandate includes examining instances of ethnic profiling by law enforcement and other state actors, and providing advice to the government on policy improvements.

The release of the discrimination report coincides with broader discussions about societal trends and potential increases in intolerance. The report was presented to the Tweede Kamer (Dutch Parliament) on April 2, 2025, by Ministers Uitermark (BZK) and Van Weel (JenV), accompanied by a supplementary briefing document. As of February 14, 2026, no public response from the Ministers has been issued following the commentary in De Telegraaf.

How do Vietnam’s multilateral engagements, such as its participation in the WTO and CPTPP, contribute to its broader economic diplomacy strategy?

Vietnam’s Economic Diplomacy Navigates Global Challenges and Drives Growth

Vietnam’s ascent as a dynamic economy in Southeast Asia is intrinsically linked to its increasingly sophisticated approach to economic diplomacy. Facing a complex global landscape marked by trade tensions, geopolitical shifts, and evolving supply chains, Vietnam has strategically leveraged international partnerships to foster growth and resilience. This article examines the key facets of Vietnam’s economic diplomacy, its successes, and the challenges it continues to address.

The Pillars of Vietnam’s Economic Diplomacy

Vietnam’s strategy isn’t simply about securing trade deals; it’s a multi-pronged approach built on several core pillars:

* Multilateral Engagement: Active participation in organizations like the World Trade Association (WTO), ASEAN, and the Complete and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) provides Vietnam with a platform to shape regional and global economic norms.

* Bilateral Trade agreements: A network of Free Trade agreements (FTAs) – including those with the EU (EVFTA) and the UK (UKVFTA) – diversifies markets and attracts foreign investment. These agreements aren’t just about tariff reductions; they also address non-tariff barriers and promote regulatory cooperation.

* Regional Integration: Vietnam’s commitment to ASEAN integration is paramount.It actively promotes initiatives like the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) to enhance regional economic cooperation and competitiveness.

* Proactive Investment promotion: Beyond simply attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Vietnam actively targets strategic investments in high-value sectors like technology, renewable energy, and sustainable manufacturing.

* Economic Security Focus: Increasingly, Vietnam is factoring economic security considerations into its diplomatic efforts, aiming to diversify supply chains and reduce reliance on single markets.

Navigating Global Challenges: A Case Study in Resilience

The past few years have presented notable global economic headwinds. Vietnam, however, has demonstrated remarkable resilience, largely due to its proactive economic diplomacy.

Consider the impact of the US-China trade war. While many economies suffered, Vietnam benefited from a shift in manufacturing as companies sought alternative production locations.This wasn’t accidental. Vietnam had already been actively courting investors and improving its infrastructure, making it an attractive destination.

Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of global supply chains. Vietnam responded by:

1. Strengthening Regional Ties: Focusing on bolstering trade within ASEAN.
2. diversifying Export Markets: Reducing dependence on customary partners.
3. Promoting Domestic Production: Encouraging local businesses to enhance their capabilities.

The EVFTA and UKVFTA: Deepening Trade Relationships

the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) represent significant milestones in Vietnam’s economic diplomacy. These agreements offer considerable benefits:

* Tariff elimination: Significant reduction and eventual elimination of tariffs on a wide range of goods.

* Improved Market Access: Enhanced access for Vietnamese exports to European markets.

* investment Liberalization: Easier conditions for European investors in Vietnam and vice versa.

* Sustainable Advancement Commitments: Provisions related to labor rights, environmental protection, and good governance.

Early data suggests the EVFTA has already boosted Vietnam’s exports to the EU, especially in sectors like footwear, textiles, and agricultural products. The UKVFTA is expected to yield similar benefits, mitigating the potential disruptions caused by Brexit.

FDI Trends and sectoral Focus

vietnam remains a magnet for Foreign Direct Investment. In 2025, FDI inflows reached a record high, driven by several factors:

* Political Stability: A stable political surroundings provides investors with confidence.

* Competitive Labor Costs: Vietnam offers a relatively low-cost labor force.

* Strategic Location: Its location in Southeast Asia provides access to key markets.

* Government Incentives: attractive incentives for foreign investors, particularly in priority sectors.

Key sectors attracting FDI include:

* Manufacturing: Electronics, textiles, footwear, and automotive components.

* Renewable Energy: Solar and wind power projects are gaining momentum.

* Technology: Growing interest in vietnam’s burgeoning tech sector.

* Infrastructure: Investments in ports, roads, and logistics facilities.

Challenges and Future Directions