One in five Dutch adjusted their commute over high fuel prices

High fuel prices driven by unrest in the Middle East and tensions surrounding Iran are now affecting daily life in the Netherlands, with 1 in 5 working adults changing their commute in recent weeks, according to a Hart van Nederland Panel survey.

The representative study found that 20 percent of working Dutch residents have made different choices to reduce commuting costs. Among them, 9 percent said they are working from home more often than usual to avoid expensive trips, while 10 percent are choosing alternatives such as public transportation, cycling or carpooling more frequently.

Employers have so far taken little action to support workers facing higher fuel costs. Just 2 percent of respondents said their company, organization or institution introduced new measures this month, such as expanding remote work options or increasing travel reimbursements.

A small group — 5 percent — said employees at their workplace can approach their employer if they run into financial difficulties due to the higher prices. However, most companies remain inactive: 85 percent of respondents said their employer has taken no action and is not discussing possible measures.

The survey was conducted among the Hart van Nederland Panel, designed to reflect the adult population of the Netherlands based on factors including gender, age, region, education and political preference.