Changes in multicultural, Muslim and acculturation attitudes in the Netherlands armed forces

The present study examined changes in multicultural, Muslim and acculturation attitudes in the Dutch military. In 2008 and 2006 two large quantitative surveys were conducted within the Dutch military. The results of the survey in 2006 showed a slightly negative attitude of Dutch Defense employees towards multiculturalism and a strong preference for assimilation in the public context. Interestingly, in 2008 attitudes towards Multiculturalism had become more positive as compared to 2006. Although in 2008 a higher rate of employees preferred the integration strategy, the majority still favored migrants to adopt an assimilation strategy.

► We conducted two quantitative surveys in the Dutch armed forces in 2006 and 2008. ► We study changes in changes in multicultural, Muslim and acculturation attitudes. ► Attitudes towards Multiculturalism had become more positive in 2008 compared to 2006. ► High educated and women show more positive attitudes than lower educated and men. ► The majority favored pressure cooker in public and segregation in private context.