New Dutch government sworn in as sector braces for more curbs

The new Dutch coalition government, led by the far-right PVV, VVD, populist BBB, and center-right NSC, has sparked controversy with its stance on internationalization in higher education. Minister for Education Eppo Bruins, who has a history of switching political parties, has prioritized curbing "excessive internationalization" through the Internationalisation in Balance bill. This move has been met with opposition from the education sector, with concerns that it will lead to job losses and hinder scientific progress. The Universities of the Netherlands (UNL) has warned that the proposed austerity measures could make the Netherlands less attractive to international talent and reduce its competitiveness in securing research funding. The sector remains uneasy despite Bruins' assurances of safeguarding academic freedoms, anticipating significant pushback against the government's plans.