Dutch society has traditionally been structured along religious, political, and ideological lines rather than along class-based divisions. Ethnic diversity has been characteristic of Dutch society since the 17th century. However, fewer than 10 percent of the population are foreign-born or of foreign descent. Immigrant groups differ in background and social integration. Discrimination against ethnic minorities has become more widespread since 1985 due to increasing numbers of refugees and decreasing confidence in the economy. The police have not recorded ethnic background of persons arrested since 1974. However persons of foreign ethnic backgrounds are disproportionately represented in inmate populations. Other data focus on juvenile delinquency, organized crime, undocumented illegal foreigners, and employment in the criminal justice system. The limited available data indicate that minorities are disproportionately represented as victims of crime, but differences do not appear to exist for those living in the same types of neighborhood. However, differences exist in racial harassment. Concerns about refugees, asylum seekers, and the presence of illegal foreigners for economic reasons have affected policy proposals. Current research is being done mostly for political purposes, to address prejudice or prove the urgency of policy measures to benefit minorities. However, research tends to overlook the reality that ethnic differences in crime are essentially socially constructed. Issues that go beyond the bounds of conventional criminology need attention. Notes and 57 references