Abstract

This case covers the evolution of economic and social policies in the Netherlands. The country seems to have mastered the art of combining high growth rate, low unemployment and low inflation. The social policies adopted by the country in dealing with issues such as drugs, prostitution, abortion and euthanasia have been highly innovative. A consensus approach towards decision-making, with the involvement of the government, businessmen and the unions has stood the country in good stead. The Dutch have also introduced various policy measures to make labour markets more flexible. But in recent times, the Dutch society seems to have become sharply divided over the issue of immigrants. The case can be used to explain the linkages among political, social and economic policies and how they influence economic development.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

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Keywords

Country case study of the Netherlands, Macroeconomics, Dutch, Dutch polder model, Economic policies in the Netherlands, Social policies in the Netherlands, Euthanasia, Low unemployment, Legalised abortion, ABN-Amro, Royal Dutch, Shell, Dutch foreign trade, Wassenaar Agreement, Pim Fortuyn