In Rotterdam, there are several explosions every week targeting homes or commercial buildings, with far-reaching consequences for local residents. The winning thesis research, conducted by criminology student Meike van Mierlo, offers the first scientific insight into the experiences of those involved in this form of excessive violence targeting buildings. The prize was awarded during the Opening of the Academic Year at Erasmus University Rotterdam by Said Kasmi, Alderman for Education, Culture and Events at the Municipality of Rotterdam.
The numerous explosions in Rotterdam have had a profound impact on local residents. For her thesis, commissioned by the Municipality of Rotterdam, Meike mapped out how Rotterdam and other cities in the Netherlands and Sweden deal with this issue. For the first time, there is scientific insight into the experiences of those affected by this form of excessive violence directed at buildings. The analyses show that exposure to excessive violence, also known as indirect victimisation, creates a need for safety, practical help and psychological support. These needs are fuelled by an increased sense of fear and insecurity, which can result in long-term psychological damage.
Explosions in Rotterdam: social impact investigated
In addition, the study provides insight into how these incidents influence neighbourhood dynamics. It appears that the shared experiences of this excessive violence serve as a connecting element for Rotterdam neighbourhood residents.
This study contributes to the understanding of the complex dynamics of excessive violence targeting buildings in Rotterdam. It emphasises the need for adequate policy aimed at providing support tailored to the needs of those involved and strengthening future social processes in neighbourhoods. Providing appropriate support to those involved in the incident can reduce the adverse effects of fear of this type of crime. This support can be improved by responding to the need for information and psychological assistance in order to prevent lasting psychological damage.
From the jury report: 'From the very first page, the connection with the city of Rotterdam is palpable. The subject matter is urgent, socially relevant and is examined with integrity. The thesis manages to respectfully map out the complex experiences of various target groups, such as residents and professionals.'
Social and scientific relevance come together
Chair of the jury, Prof. Martijn van der Steen: 'The jury was impressed by the sharp analysis, the fine writing style and the convincing way in which recommendations were formulated. The thesis is a textbook example of how social and scientific relevance come together in a single piece of research: scientifically strong and practically super relevant and topical. The author demonstrates a strong capacity for reflection and handles the sensitivity of the subject with care. This results in an exciting and surprising thesis that offers deep insights into a sensitive but important urban issue.'
The thesis entitled: De schok achter de voordeur: Een exploratief onderzoek naar de beleving van Rotterdammers van excessief geweld gericht op panden (The shock behind the front door: An exploratory study into the experiences of Rotterdam residents with excessive violence directed at buildings) was written by Meike van Mierlo for her specialisation in Organisational Crime and Organised Crime in the Master's programme in Criminology at Erasmus School of Law. She was supervised by Dr Gijs Custers.
After completing her master's degree, Meike started working as a policy officer at the Safety Department of the Municipality of Rotterdam.
About the Rotterdam Thesis Award 2025
To encourage students to apply their scientific knowledge to Rotterdam, the municipality of Rotterdam and EUR have created the Rotterdam Thesis Award. The jury assesses the relevance to Rotterdam and the scientific quality. The prize consists of a certificate, a work of art by a Rotterdam artist and a cash prize of 1,500 euros.
An honourable mention
In addition to this year's winner, there is an honourable mention for the thesis: "Towards Self-Regulation in Cities: A Holistic Approach to Urban Digital Twin Design: insights from Design Science Research", written by Pelle Knegjes for the master's programme in Business Administration.
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Questions?
Please contact Marjolein Kooistra, Communications Rotterdam Thesis Award by email or telephone on +31 (0)6 83 67 60 38.
For further information, please contact Ronald de Groot, Media & Public Relations Officer at Erasmus School of Law: degroot@law.eur.nl, mobile: +31 (0)6 53 64 18 46.
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