In 2024, the Netherlands continued to commit to security. The Netherlands actively participated in NATO missions and operations both within and outside NATO territory. The Netherlands also continued to support Ukraine unconditionally, militarily with the delivery of F-16s, and financially with € 566 million. Of this, € 218 million is for the EU Ukraine facility, where the EU assistance comes together, and € 58 million to the Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund of the World Bank for recovery projects of Ukrainian infrastructure. The Netherlands pays for repairs to the electricity grid, roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals.
Trade
In 2024, the Netherlands helped over 5000 entrepreneurs start or expand their small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) abroad. This led to additional exports for 1137 companies, totaling over € 270 million extra.
Food Security and Water
The Netherlands also continued to commit to food security and access to clean water. Thanks to Dutch assistance, 3.6 million people gained access to improved water sources and 6.4 million people gained access to sanitation facilities such as toilets. The goal for 2024 has thus been largely achieved. Through programs from Aqua for All and FINISH Mondial, it was possible to realize many more private investments in the water sector with Dutch support.
The Netherlands also ensured that over 1 million people were reached with information to improve their nutrition.
Due to several crises in the world, the Netherlands increased its financial contributions to emergency aid to a total of € 609 million. This also includes an additional contribution of € 44 million for assistance in acute crises, such as in Gaza and Sudan.
Contribution to the European Union
The new cabinet has focused on realizing Dutch interests in the European Union in the areas of asylum and migration, agricultural policy, and EU budget negotiations. The cabinet also wants to play an active role in European decision-making to increase the influence of the Netherlands. EU membership directly contributes to the prosperity, freedom, and security of Dutch citizens and businesses. Membership comes with financial obligations, which in 2024 amounted to a net € 7.2 billion.