3 million for increased safety in council meetings

The cabinet invests in the safety of local democracy, enabling representatives to perform their duties effectively. Therefore, €3 million is made available to keep council and provincial meetings both publicly accessible and safe, for example by adjusting room layouts. Additionally, a learning network will start where local governments can share experiences and knowledge.

Minister Rijkaart (Interior and Kingdom Relations):
“Our representatives do important work. They are deeply connected to the community and directly engaged with society. This must continue. They deserve an environment where they can work safely and express themselves freely. Therefore, this cabinet invests in safety by sharing knowledge and experiences and allocates €3 million for additional measures.

Launch of national learning network

At the end of November 2025, the national learning network Safe Meetings will start. Municipalities, provinces, and supporting organizations exchange experiences, knowledge, and best practices. The first group of 28 participating authorities will also receive financial support to implement appropriate safety measures. These can range from spatial adjustments in the layout and exits of meeting rooms to improving incident follow-up.

Insights from the project will be shared so that other government organizations can benefit and strengthen their own approaches.

Broad collaboration

The project is carried out under the resilient governance program in close cooperation with the Dutch Association of Mayors (NGB), the Association of Clerks (VvG), StatenlidNu, and the Dutch Association for Council Members. Together, we work towards a local democracy where representatives can continue their work freely, safely, and independently for their citizens.