Dutch overestimate the number of Muslims living in the Netherlands

Dutch people overestimate the number of Muslims living in the Netherlands, revealed a new study conducted by the Perils of Perception.

The survey conducted in 37 countries, indicate that Dutch people think that 26% of the Netherlands’ population is born abroad, while the real number is 12%. They also believe that 20% of the population is Muslim, while the real figure is 5%.

While the unemployment rate in the Netherlands is steadily declining and is now below 4%, respondents believe that the unemployment rate is 18%. The survey highlights that in the 37 countries surveyed, the general population tends to overestimate the number of Muslims living in the country.

In South Africa and Belgium, for example, respondents believe that a quarter of the population is Muslim, compared with only 2% and 5%, respectively.