11. One city for everyone

Eindhoven is rapidly attracting people from near and far. We are one city, and everyone must be able to feel at home here, whether you were born here or have just arrived. Polarization does not arise from differences themselves, but from people living past one another. That is something we do not accept. EVE chooses encounter instead of division, living together instead of existing side by side. Integration is not something you do alone; you do it together by meeting, celebrating, talking, and building the city collectively.

1. A Central International Meeting Hub

We will establish a central and recognizable place where international communities can gather and organize events. This space will be open and welcoming to all residents of Eindhoven and will actively stimulate interaction between different groups in the city.

2. Accessible Support for International Initiatives

We encourage and facilitate international cultural and social activities through simple subsidies for small and medium-sized initiatives. Activities can take place in community centers and locations throughout the city, ensuring that integration happens close to home.

3. Connection Through Language and Mutual Learning

In neighborhoods and districts, we support initiatives where residents help one another learn Dutch, English, and, where relevant, other languages. Language becomes a tool for connection, faster integration, and equal interaction.

4. Helping Partners of International Residents Find Work More Quickly

We actively support partners of international residents in finding employment that matches their skills and addresses shortages in the city. Together with businesses and social organizations, we make it easier to enter the labor market, including outside the high-tech sector. We collaborate with existing initiatives and ensure effective coordination.

5. Employer Responsibility in International Recruitment

Companies bear responsibility for the proper guidance and integration of international employees. This includes support with housing, language, navigating the city, and family integration. For new international employers, responsible employment practices are a prerequisite. Companies that fail to cooperate may be excluded from municipal partnerships, subsidies, or facilities.

6. A Firm Approach to Labor Exploitation

We do not accept exploitation. The municipality works actively with the province, inspection authorities, and enforcement agencies to address abuses in employment and housing. We strengthen reporting mechanisms, provide clear information to labor migrants, and examine the use of maximum fines and exclusion from municipal contracts for offenders.

7. Dialogue in Times of International Tension

International conflicts resonate within our city. We facilitate dialogue that allows space for emotions and expression, always connected to respectful conversation and mutual understanding. Initiatives align with Eindhoven’s core values of freedom and equality, for example through art, commemorations, and public discussions.

8. Unconditional Support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian Community

The attack on Ukraine affects our shared values. Eindhoven will continue to actively support Ukraine and the Ukrainian community. We will realize a permanent monument, support shelter, housing, and employment, and actively involve Ukrainians in social initiatives within the city.

9. Using Knowledge and Talent for the City

We will more actively engage the knowledge and experience of international knowledge workers in social initiatives, such as tutoring, coaching, and volunteer work. This can take place through companies or through accessible pathways for individuals who wish to contribute.

10. Integration and Identity

We will strengthen integration from the moment people arrive in Eindhoven. The city takes an active lead and expects companies to properly guide new employees, including beyond the workplace. Integration will have a permanent place in neighborhoods and districts, where encounter and participation take place. At the same time, Eindhoven’s identity becomes part of integration, with attention to the city’s history, values, and culture through dialogue, meeting, and meaningful places.

11. Addressing Sensitive History and International Tensions

International tensions and complex historical legacies, such as global conflicts, the history of slavery, and the Second World War, also affect Eindhoven and its residents. Not everyone is equally informed about these histories, which can lead to polarization and misunderstanding. That is why we invest in explanation, education, and dialogue. Inspiring initiatives such as those of the Hornemann House, as well as neighborhood-based efforts, are strong examples. New residents are actively informed about the city’s values and history. On sensitive topics, we choose dialogue and context within the framework of freedom, equality, and democracy. In this way, we prevent polarization and strengthen shared understanding and responsibility.