Dutch integration prize awarded for the last time

It should have been celebration, marked by optimism about the future of the Netherlands’ multicultural society. But instead, there was a cloud hanging over the presentation of this year’s annual ‘Inspiration for Integration’ prize.

At a formal ceremony in The Hague, Princess Maxima announced the winner before a hall filled with politicians, entertainers and people from the business community. European Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes was the keynote speaker.

The Inspiration for Integration prize is meant to promote the deeper integration of people from minority backgrounds into Dutch society, but after four years, the organiser of the award has decided to abandon ship.

Yesim Candan is frustrated by a lack of crucial support from the business community. Of the 50 large companies Ms Candan approached this year, only one agreed to participate in the competition. Ms Candan, a Dutchwoman of Turkish background, admits that integration presents challenges.

Read full article: Radio Netherlands, 19 May 2008