Motives of Voters and Non-Voters Investigated

Researchers explore why residents do or do not vote in municipal elections and how differences in turnout and representation between neighbourhoods can be reduced.

Motieven van stemmers en niet-stemmers onderzocht

If we want to understand why people lack trust in local politics, we need to literally enter neighbourhoods and listen to their stories. It is precisely there that insights emerge for a more inclusive democracy.

– Marianne van Bochove

Introduction

In this project, the research groups Urban Development and Public Governance collaborate with Utrecht University and Experts in Media en Maatschappij (EMMA) to investigate why residents do or do not vote in municipal elections in The Hague, Almere, Weert and Oldambt.

Project Background

Turnout in municipal elections has been consistently lower than in national elections. Major differences also exist between neighbourhoods. The project builds on earlier research after the 2022 elections and examines what has changed , or remained the same , between 2022 and 2026 regarding voting behaviour, trust, and representation.

Objective

To gain insight into voting behaviour and develop perspectives for action to reduce differences in turnout and representation.

Target Group

The research is aimed at municipalities, policymakers, researchers, and civil society organisations working on local democracy and inclusive representation. Residents and local key figures are important participants in the study.

Method

Researchers conduct comparative qualitative research in neighbourhoods across four municipalities. Through street interviews and in-depth conversations with residents and local key figures, experiences and perspectives are collected.

Results

The project will produce a report covering four municipalities, presentations for each municipality, and a chapter in the Local Voter Research report. The study also builds on earlier publications about low turnout, non-voters, and representation.

Impact

The research contributes to a better understanding of differences in political participation between neighbourhoods. The insights support municipalities and organisations in developing interventions that strengthen engagement with local democracy.

More Information

Earlier publications from this research programme include:

Start and End Date

March 2026 – November 2026

Funding

The research is funded by the Dutch Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. Additional local research is funded by the municipalities of The Hague, Almere, and Oldambt.

Collaboration

  • Utrecht University 
  • Experts in Media en Maatschappij (EMMA) 
  • The Hague University of Applied Sciences 

Team

The Hague University for Applied Sciences 

  • Marianne van Bochove 
  • Christine Bleijenberg 
  • Arjan Hoeblal 
  • Isa Huizinga 
  • Selin Ergin 
  • Hanar Sabir 

EMMA

  • Merel van Rees 
  • Hans Moors 
  • Ton Baetens 
  • Koen Gruijters 

Universiteit Utrecht

  • Hans Vollaard 

Contact

Marianne van Bochove
[email protected]