Verwey-Jonker Institute

Research into social issues

Social science research that really matters!

The Verwey-Jonker Institute is an independent national organisation for social scientific research, based in Utrecht, the Netherlands. We focus specifically on topical issues in the public and social/societal spheres. We aspire to social relevance, and work in an ethical, enthusiastic, solution-oriented and independent scientifically-sound manner. The results of our research are widely available to all interested parties in society. As an institute we operate on a non-profit basis, and our main objective is to be instrumental in improving governance, enhancing the effectiveness of policy, and encouraging more citizen involvement. In short, the aim of the Verwey-Jonker Institute is to make a difference!

The Executive Director of the institute is Hans Boutellier; the chairman of the supervisory board is Johan Remkes.

Feeling for policy and implementation

Every member of the thirty-five staff of the Verwey-Jonker Institute has a specific field of knowledge and expertise in a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research techniques. We are particularly expert at accessing hard to reach population groups. Our researchers focus on new developments, evidence-based policymaking and effective implementation, with a sensitivity for current social dilemmas and problems. In addition to this, the Institute has strong expertise in the area of reaching out to vulnerable groups.

Five domains

Our research into social problems and opportunities focuses on a number of social domains:

  1. Social Vitality, Security and Safety (dr. Freek de Meere)
  2. Youth, Child Rearing and Education (dr. Rob Gilsing)
  3. Participation in Society (dr. Monique Stavenuiter)
  4. Diversity (drs. Marjan de Gruijter)
  5. International Policy Dimensions (drs. Eliane Smits van Waesberghe). 

Research programme

Our financiers and commissioning parties determine the focus of our research programme. This programme is established annually. However, we take an active part in determining our direction and goals, with a view to making a worthwhile contribution to society as a whole. Our most important clients are the Ministries of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK), Social Affairs and Employment (SZW), Education Security and Justice, Infrastructure and the Environment (I&M), provincial governments and municipalities, social entrepreneurs and social partners, as well as other individuals and groups.

Through an ongoing stream of European and International research projects, the Institute maintains an international network for social and societal research.

General information

If you would like additional information on our activities, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Manager International affairs and Researcher: Drs. Eliane Smits van Waesberghe, E: Esmits@verwey-jonker.nl
Or visit the Verwey-Jonker Institute website: www.verwey-jonker.nl.

Verwey-Jonker Institute
Kromme Nieuwegracht 6
3512 HG Utrecht
T: +31 (0)30 230 07 99

 

Verwey-Jonker Institute

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