Middelburg

In the heart of Zeeland, Middelburg shines as a truly international city where it is not only nice to live, but where a diverse community of expats have also found their home. The fact that expats work in various industries, including hospitality, industry, construction, transport, retail and wholesale, shows the versatility of the local economy. 

Middelburg, especially its monumental centre, is actually one big décor. It inspires artists and attracts lovers of art, culture and heritage to the city. As a result, Middelburg is also a tourist town as well as a shopping town where creative entrepreneurs stand up who know how to surprise people with unique and innovative concepts. This commercial spirit characterises Middelburg. Since the Middle Ages, the city has been internationally oriented with many nationalities. A true trading town with international relations from the world trade of the VOC and the WIC. Today, this trading success also has a downside, namely the slave trade. 

Middelburg is also a city dedicated to a better future for all. With an eye for human rights, Middelburg emphasizes creating an inclusive and tolerant society. This is expressed with activities throughout the year surrounding the focus on the slavery past, the biennial presentation of the Four Freedom Awards, the Shelter City initiative, the establishment of the Etty Hillesum House at the Molenwater Park and the initiative to create a National Knowledge Center on Slavery Past, through which the city is committed to an inclusive and equitable society.   

Middelburg's rich history contributes to its unique atmosphere, making it not only an attractive place to live, but also a fascinating place to study. 

Bilingual education at VO schools CSW and Nehalennia offers young people the chance to develop at an international level. Not only does this enable locals to improve their language skills, but it also ensures that expats can easily integrate into the local education system. In addition, Middelburg has established itself as a thriving student city, with institutions such as University College Roosevelt (UCR) and HZ University of Applied Sciences. These educational institutions attract more than 1,000 international students from all over the world. This contributes to the city's diversity and international atmosphere, where people of different backgrounds and nationalities learn and grow together.  

In short, Middelburg is not only a city of stones and history, but also a vibrant community where human rights are highly valued, where bilingual education flourishes and where international students are welcome. Middelburg proves that a city can be both rich in history and progressive, and that it is possible to create a global community that comes together in a city proud of its diversity.