Criminalization of espionage
Espionage, such as sharing state secrets with foreign governments, is already a crime.
But the forms and use of espionage are changing. The cabinet wants to protect the Netherlands against this and the threat
of espionage more effectively. It is therefore important to amend the Criminal Code.
What? Better protection of national security
- Protecting specific knowledge and technology in vital sectors, such as telecom, biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals.
- Guarantee unique know-how of educational institutions and knowledge institutes.
- Protecting persons who are victims of foreign espionage activities.
Why? More effective approach to espionage necessary
- The Netherlands wants to better protect national security, vital infrastructure and high-quality technologies.
- Digital espionage is on the rise; the risk of ‘classic’ espionage remains.
- The Netherlands is a highly developed country with an open economy and society. That makes us an attractive target.
- Foreign powers are also increasingly trying to exert influence within communities in the Netherlands that originate from those countries.
How? Expansion of the Penal Code improves instruments
- You are punishable by performing espionage activities for a foreign government and thereby endangering important Dutch interests, such as national security and the safety of persons. A prison sentence of up to six years can be imposed for this.
- Persons who encourage others to perform such acts for another country are also punishable by law.
- The penalty for a number of computer crimes is being increased.
guarantees
- It goes without saying that in many cases contact, cooperation or the exchange of information with foreign governments is not punishable. After all, the Netherlands is an open society, in which contact with foreign governments, companies, scientists and between citizens is and must remain possible.
- Espionage activities are carried out on behalf of foreign governments that damage important Dutch interests, such as national security and the safety of persons.
More information?
Look at https://www.nctv.nl.