New Research on Class Justice: Harsher Sentences for Suspects with Low Socioeconomic Status

A new report reveals that suspects with lower socioeconomic status in the Netherlands receive harsher sentences than those from more privileged backgrounds. The study, conducted by the Scientific Research and Documentation Centre (WODC), analyzed over 2.5 million criminal cases between 2006 and 2022.

Researchers defined socioeconomic position based on education level, employment status, income, and housing situation. The findings indicate that individuals with the weakest social standing face an average of 18 extra days in prison, 36 extra hours of community service, or a €900 higher fine compared to their more advantaged counterparts.

The WODC report also referenced a 2024 investigation by Investico, De Groene Amsterdammer, and NOS Op 3, which found that suspects with lower education and a migration background were nearly three times more likely to receive a prison sentence for the same offense as individuals without a migration background and with higher education.

While socioeconomic factors play a larger role for adult suspects, the WODC researchers noted that individuals with a second-generation migration background have a higher chance of being tried in court and receiving harsher sentences, even when socioeconomic status is considered. The report warns that consistently imposing heavier sentences on disadvantaged suspects could increase stigmatization and erode trust in the justice system and the sense of fairness among this group.

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If structurally heavier and more visible sentences are imposed on suspects with a less favorable starting position, this can contribute to the stigmatization of this group. Also, the trust in the rule of law and the sense of justice of this group can be affected.