1.6 Methodology

Several research methods are used in this research. Outlining an overview of the historical and actual status of statutory exit rights is performed in a descriptive and argumentative mannet As the research question ultimately includes questions of reasonableness and fürness, this research also has a normative element.

On the basis of the aforementioned methods, this study aims to provide a better understanding of the notions underlying exit rights, the actual scope of exit rights, the functioning of exit rights in practice and shortcomings of the current Dutch exit rights regime. In order to reach this objective, statutes and proposed statutes, the legislative history of statutes, legal literature, case law, and other more or less traditional legal sources are investigated.

This study is based on a comparative approach, both externally and internally. The purpose of a comparison between several countries is to draw inspiration from other legal systems for improvement of the Dutch exit rights regime. It is interesting to observe both contrasts and similarities.

By comparing the exit rights inside the Dutch law system, the consistency of the present exit rights regime can be examined. Based on this interaal and external comparative research, conclusions will be drawn and recommendations will be provided.