Research
To take quicker and targeted actions against disruptive actions that break the law while preserving societal support for demonstrations, the cabinet wants to distinguish more clearly between peaceful protests and disorderly actions. The previously announced research conducted by the Scientific Research and Documentation Center (WODC) is expected to help create this distinction. The results are anticipated in summer 2025.
Exploration of a Ban on Face-Covering Clothing
Parallel to this research, the cabinet will take steps to address problems with demonstrations. For example, in the first quarter of 2025, a legal ban on face-covering clothing at demonstrations will be explored. There have been instances where rioters with face-covering clothing violated the law, such as vandalizing property or committing violence. Face-covering clothing can make it difficult to identify these rioters.
Pressure on Police and Public Prosecution Service
The number of demonstrations in the Netherlands has more than tripled between 2015 and 2022. Police deployment at demonstrations has also increased by 84% since 2017. The Chief of Police has signaled that this deployment is placing heavy burdens on the police organization. The Public Prosecution Service (OM) is also making stricter choices to relieve the criminal justice system.
In principle, there will be prosecution for crimes such as vandalism, threats, (group) defamation, discrimination, or arson. Multiple consecutive violations can also be prosecuted. However, this can only occur if arrested demonstrators are registered. This is currently limited, as demonstrators sometimes do not carry identification, and registration costs a lot of police resources. The cabinet will discuss with the police and the OM whether additional actions are needed to prosecute unlawful behavior more effectively.
Online Incitement
Online provoked disturbances are a relatively new issue. This includes (threatening) physical disturbances that begin or are amplified online, like the online calls to revolt during curfew riots and an out-of-control giveaway in a shopping center, as well as calls to block highways.
Tackling these expressions affects the constitutional freedom of expression (prohibition of censorship). Reactive measures due to the content of an expression are possible, such as prosecution for incitement. Additionally, there is an effort to remove such expressions as quickly as possible and to penalize the individuals who make them more frequently and swiftly.
The Minister of Justice and Security is therefore preparing a bill to improve the polices information position regarding public order enforcement. A proposal will be consulted in the first half of this year that will regulate systematic information gathering in publicly accessible online sources. At the same time, work is being done to allow police access to closed groups on apps and chats, as requested by MP Yeşilgöz-Zegerius in her motion.
Continuing Conversations
Furthermore, the Ministries of the Interior and Kingdom Relations and Justice and Security will continue to engage with various stakeholders, such as municipalities, police, social organizations, and advocacy groups for demonstrators. This dialogue is essential for finding a balance between protecting the right to demonstrate and addressing the small group that misbehaves. By collaborating with all involved, the cabinet aims to develop a widely supported approach that supports peaceful demonstrations while contributing to a safe and orderly society.