Eindhoven is changing at high speed. It has transformed into the engine of the Brainport region, one of Europe’s most innovative tech hubs. The city attracts thousands of newcomers each year: engineers, students, researchers, migrant workers, and families who choose Eindhoven as their new home. With that growth comes pressure, opportunity, and a political debate about how to keep the city livable and cohesive.
D66 Eindhoven argues that the city must embrace its international character while addressing the challenges posed by rapid expansion. “Eindhoven is dynamic and forward‑looking” the party says. “The task now is to keep it open, inclusive, and sustainable.”
The international population has grown sharply over the past decade. Highly skilled workers still form a large share, but they are now joined by international students, partners, migrant workers, and long‑term residents who settle permanently.
English is heard in supermarkets, cafés, and playgrounds. International schools are full. Companies depend on global talent to fill vacancies. And yet, many internationals still struggle to find their place in the city. According to D66, this diversity is an asset, but only if the city invests in integration, community building, and accessible services. “
Housing, mobility, and the importance of culture
The biggest challenge is housing. Eindhoven’s shortage affects everyone, but internationals often face additional hurdles: temporary contracts, unclear rental rules, and a lack of affordable options. D66 wants to speed up construction, especially of sustainable and mid‑priced homes, while ensuring that new neighbourhoods remain green and well‑connected. Mobility is another pressure point. As the city grows, so does congestion. The party argues for major investments in public transport, cycling routes, and walkable streets to keep the city accessible.
Culture, too, is part of the equation. Eindhoven spends significantly less on culture than other major Dutch cities. D66 sees this as a missed opportunity. Cultural spaces, events and institutions help bring people together, they argue, because they create shared experiences and strengthen social cohesion among residents, including internationals.
What D66 proposes for Internationals
In its election manifesto, D66 includes a dedicated chapter for internationals. The party outlines several concrete measures to make Eindhoven easier to navigate for newcomers.
- Clear information in English. Essential municipal information, on healthcare, education, housing, taxes, and participation, should be available in clear English. According to D66, too many internationals now rely on employers or informal networks for basic guidance.
- Better access to Dutch language learning. The party wants to expand free or affordable Dutch courses through libraries and community centres, and encourages companies to integrate language lessons into onboarding. Flexible options are crucial for partners and students.
- Support against loneliness. Many internationals, from expats to migrant workers, experience isolation. D66 calls for stronger neighbourhood initiatives, community events, and cultural activities that help people build connections.
- Protection against exploitation, Migrant workers and students are particularly vulnerable to poor housing and unfair labour practices. The party argues for stricter enforcement and better support systems.
- Support for international cultural initiatives, such as festivals, community events, and cultural collaborations, should be easier to organise. These activities, D66 says, enrich the city and help bridge communities.
- Better coordination between institutions. Because internationals often deal with multiple layers of government, the party wants clearer cooperation between the municipality, national authorities, educational institutions, and employers.
D66 emphasises that internationals are not a separate group but part of Eindhoven’s community. Those who live and work in the city should feel welcome and have the opportunity to participate. But participation also comes with responsibilities: learning about Dutch society, engaging with neighbours, and contributing to the city’s social fabric.
Reaching international voters
EU citizens and many other internationals have the right to vote in municipal elections, yet awareness remains low. D66 campaigns in English and works with international networks to reach eligible voters. The party also highlights representation: several candidates on the list have international backgrounds.
Among the candidates are people with roots in Romania, Kurdistan, Turkey, and Ukraine. Their experiences reflect the city’s international reality and, according to D66, help ensure that newcomers feel represented in local politics. Their presence on the list signals a broader shift: Eindhoven’s political landscape is slowly becoming as diverse as its population.
Eindhoven’s growth is a success story, but also a stress test. The city must build homes, expand infrastructure, strengthen culture, and ensure that newcomers can find their way. For D66, the message is clear: Eindhoven’s international future is already here.
