Netherlands Proposes Expanded Intelligence Powers to Counter Cyberattacks

The Dutch government is proposing new legislation to expand the powers of its intelligence services to counter sophisticated cyberattacks and espionage from Russia and China. Defense Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius stated the law aims to streamline agency reactions by reducing bureaucratic approvals, describing the move as a way to "sharpen our knife."

Prime Minister Rob Jetten identified the Netherlands as a primary target for sabotage and espionage because of its advanced economy and technology. He specifically cited Chinese attempts to acquire data from Dutch companies. The proposal comes amid heightened tensions regarding the war in Ukraine and global economic competition over semiconductor technology, particularly involving the Dutch chip equipment firm ASML.