13.1    General information 

The Netherlands is aware of its special duty towards international organisations and has customised its security policy to take that responsibility into account. The Protocol Department is the front office for requests and questions concerning security issues.

The office of the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV), through its Surveillance and Protection Department, is responsible for security policy and security matters concerning international organisations and maintains direct contact with some of these organisations.

13.2    Protection of persons

In exceptional cases it may be necessary to take specific protection measures for specific persons. Usually, the Dutch authorities take the initiative in providing such protection. International organisations themselves can play a role in providing the host country authorities informed at all times of any possible threats or other relevant developments. However, the ultimate responsibility for protection measures remains with the Dutch authorities. The cooperation of those receiving protection with security agencies is essential.

13.3    Protection of buildings

If an international organisation has information that its peace is likely to be disturbed, it should inform the Ministry’s Protocol Department by calling +31 (0)70 348 4905 during office hours (09.00 – 17.00) or +31 (0)6 5114 3634 outside office hours. 
If police assistance is required, the following procedures are recommended:
•    in the event of an emergency (including accidents), international organisations can call the national emergency number 112; (ask for the police, medical assistance or the fire service, as required);
•    for less urgent matters requiring police assistance, please call 0900 8844.

The Haaglanden regional police have a special surveillance unit for diplomatic premises and international organisations, the Mobile Diplomatic Protection Squad (Dynamische Diplomatieke Surveillance, DDS). It can be reached via the general, non-urgent national police telephone number 0900 8844 or by calling the Diplomatic Front Office of the Haaglanden police on +31 (0)88 964 9649. 

13.4    Measures to prevent burglary, vandalism and fire

International organisations should make it standard practice to take the necessary measures for the protection of their premises and for the basic protection of the homes of their staff members against burglary, vandalism and fire. It is recommended that staff members take out adequate insurance cover against fire and burglary. At the request of an international organisation through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the regional police can provide advice on protective measures. Damage to the premises or vehicles of an international organisation or its staff as a result of burglary or vandalism should be reported immediately to the Ministry. If there is evidence that the damage was politically motivated or occurred during a demonstration, the international organisation may apply to the Ministry for compensation. Damage to flags and coats of arms will always be compensated.

13.5    Demonstrations

The freedom to hold demonstrations is a long tradition in the Netherlands and a constitutional right. The Netherlands has clearly defined limits within which these rights may be exercised and within which the competent authorities may impose restrictions on demonstrations. It is recommended, but not obligatory, to notify the municipal authorities in writing in advance of demonstrations. 

Once a demonstration has been announced, the police are responsible for ensuring that it takes place in an orderly manner. Impeding the normal course of business of international organisations is prohibited. The mayor is therefore empowered to issue instructions to be followed by demonstrators and, if necessary, order a demonstration to end if these instructions are not complied with. The police will contact the international organisation to make appropriate security arrangements and ensure that it can continue to operate. 

Police contact numbers: +31 (0)88 964 9649 (Diplomatic Front Office) // +31 (0)900 8844 (general) // 112 (emergency)

13.6    Firearms

Permission
The possession of firearms without a licence is prohibited in the Netherlands. The Dutch authorities are responsible for protecting the staff of international organisations. Applications for licences to carry firearms must be made to the local police.

Foreign security personnel
Separate regulations apply to foreign visitors wishing to be accompanied during their stay in the Netherlands by their own armed security personnel. These regulations state the categories of persons (or posts) eligible for a firearm permit and the maximum number of firearms that may be carried.

Separate permission for each armed security officer and each weapon must be obtained from the NCTV. Each request for permission must be made in writing via the Protocol Department at least two weeks before the arrival of the visitor(s). Only heads of state and government, ministers of foreign affairs and military officers whose visit is covered by the NATO Status of Forces Agreement can obtain permission. Other dignitaries may be eligible in the event of a threat substantiated by an NCTV threat assessment.

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