Bill to Promote Integrity in Decentralized Government to the House of Representatives

Minister Rijkaart: “The functioning of public administration depends on integrity. To strengthen trust in politics, it is important that the integrity of officials is considered prior to every appointment. This bill makes this procedure mandatory and establishes clear rules for implementation.”

Most provinces, municipalities, and water boards already conduct a risk analysis before appointing a new official. They examine matters such as current or previously held secondary positions or financial interests. This identifies potential risks and vulnerabilities. The bill specifies which types of integrity aspects may be considered, such as incompatible secondary positions and prohibited actions. It also sets out which sources may be used, like questionnaires and public sources. Furthermore, the bill provides candidate officials with clarity on how personal information is handled and who has which role in this process. This way, candidates better understand what to expect.

The proposal also clarifies how decentralized officials must handle their possible financial interests. An official is expected to serve the public interest in their role. Having certain financial interests may create conflicts with proper performance of duties. Therefore, the proposal states that officials must not have financial interests conflicting with their role.

On March 18, 2026, municipal elections will be held. The bill will not yet be in effect when the screening of candidate aldermen takes place. Therefore, all municipalities were urged by letter in September 2025 to conduct an integrity risk analysis. More information about how to shape the integrity risk analysis and how candidate officials can apply for a Certificate of Conduct (mandatory since January 1, 2023) can be found at www.politiekeambtsdragers.nl/screening.