Research on the likelihood of reporting criminal discrimination
Everyone in the Netherlands has the right to equal treatment. Yet a significant share of the population experiences discrimination: about 1 in 10 Dutch residents aged 15 and older have encountered discrimination at some point. For specific groups, these percentages are often much higher. Discrimination has direct emotional and psychological consequences, but it also reduces trust in government and weakens social engagement. Despite its serious impact, criminal discrimination is rarely reported. Only 6% of LGBTQIA+ individuals and fewer than 5% of Dutch Muslims who experience discrimination file a police report. To understand and address this issue, we are launching a study into the likelihood of reporting criminal discrimination.
Why does this matter?
Reporting is essential for criminal prosecution and for preventing discrimination. Yet the step from experiencing discrimination to filing a report is complex: not every form of unequal treatment is a criminal offense, and not every criminal incident is recognized as such. Social and institutional barriers also play a role. By gaining a better understanding of how victims, witnesses, and professionals assess discrimination, and which factors influence the likelihood of reporting, we can develop targeted interventions to increase the willingness to report.