Netherlands expands espionage laws to include cyber activities

The Dutch government has adopted new legislation expanding the scope of its espionage laws to include digital espionage and other activities carried out on behalf of foreign states that may harm Dutch national interests. The updated law complements existing provisions that criminalise the disclosure of state secrets by adding penalties for leaking sensitive, but not classified, information and for conducting harmful activities linked to foreign entities.

Under the revised legal framework, penalties for computer-related offenses associated with espionage have been increased. Individuals found guilty of such offences could face up to eight years in prison, or up to twelve years in particularly severe cases. Netherlands Justice and Security Minister David van Weel stated that the measures aim to enhance national resilience against foreign threats.

In parallel, the government is moving forward with plans to implement vetting procedures for researchers and students seeking access to sensitive technologies at Dutch academic institutions. This follows growing concern over foreign interest in strategic research, particularly from China, as noted by Dutch intelligence services.

In recent assessments, Dutch authorities have reported both Chinese cyber activities targeting intellectual property and Russian state-linked attempts to disrupt national infrastructure. Incidents include reported efforts to infiltrate institutions based in The Hague, such as the International Criminal Court and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

Key changes in dutch espionage law