Dealing with undesirable foreign interference

Forms of foreign interference

Undesirable foreign interference can occur in a variety of ways. Some countries will approach their citizens (or former citizens) who are now living in the Netherlands, or Dutch nationals who have relatives in that country. For example, they may:

• threaten political opponents living in the Netherlands or their family members in the country of origin, sometimes with violence;
• put pressure on their citizens or, conversely, offer them money to serve the interests of their country;
• threaten journalists who cover certain subjects.

Undesirable foreign interference causes people to feel unsafe

Some people living in the Netherlands do not feel safe on account of undesirable foreign interference. This interference can cause problems in their lives. Here are a few examples:

• They may be afraid to say or do what they want;
• A community may find itself more divided;
• Some undesirable activities can cast doubt on the loyalty of certain groups. This can sometimes lead to distrust within Dutch society more broadly. For the countries behind this interference, creating this doubt is a deliberate strategy.

Measures to oppose undesirable foreign interference

Central government has taken various measures to combat undesirable foreign interference. For example:

• Using diplomatic channels to engage in dialogue with countries that interfere in the Netherlands’ affairs. The government clearly states that these actions are unwanted and explains what has to change. Many countries are sensitive to the prospect of reputational damage, or they are afraid that commercial or sociocultural relationships could be harmed. This is why calling countries to account for their actions in a targeted and proportional way is an effective strategy.
• Educating people (such as certain groups of migrants) about undesirable foreign interference.
  • The government wants these groups to know more about undesirable foreign interference, including who is behind it and why.
  • Local government staff. They need to understand what undesirable foreign interference is and to know that some local residents are experiencing it.
• The Dutch government is in contact with groups of migrants who have family in countries that are exerting unwanted influence in the Netherlands. It is looking into whether these people are encountering problems due to their ties to these countries. The government believes that everyone in the Netherlands should be able to live in safety, whatever their background. With that in mind, it works with local authorities, communities and experts to strictly enforce laws.
• Various forms of espionage are punishable by law. For example, when foreign governments gather secret or sensitive information about people living in the Netherlands. Undesirable foreign interference can be difficult to prove. But if someone breaks the law, the police will conduct an investigation, under the guidance of the Public Prosecution Service. The police will then gather evidence, for example by interviewing witnesses and victims, conducting an investigation, and arresting suspects. Sometimes these investigations reveal that a person is in danger. The Public Prosecution Service or the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV) can then decide, for example, to offer that person additional protection.