Netherlands Country Report

The Netherlands is a stable democratic country in northern Europe, bordering the North Sea to the north and west, Germany to the east, and Belgium to the south. A large number of international organizations, including offices of the EU and UN, have operations in the Netherlands. The government is stable, and there are no major threats to stability. The Dutch economy is extremely well-developed, and the Netherlands is consequently one of the most prosperous countries in the world. The country maintains liberal policies towards foreign direct investment and trade and adheres to OECD investment regulations. Corruption in the Netherlands is uncommon. Protests and public gatherings are common, although these rarely turn violent or target foreign enterprises. There are no major security threats to foreign travelers. However, petty crime occurs, and there are growing concerns over Islamist extremism. Dutch authorities have bolstered counter-terrorism provisions amid growing concerns over potential Islamic State (IS) plots. Medical, communications and transportation infrastructure is extensively developed across the country.

The Netherlands is generally considered to be a safe location for travel. Petty crime poses the greatest threat to foreign travelers, although incident rates are relatively low by regional standards. Violent crime is rare and does not typically affect foreign nationals. The country does not face any internal or external conflict risk. Terrorist activity is a potential threat, and there are heightened concerns due to the presence of radical Islamist networks with ties to transnational groups.

There are no serious concerns over air travel.

Overland travel is safe given the country’s well-developed infrastructure.

Netherlands has the most efficient seaports in the EU. Ferries are safe and efficient.

Utility provision is good.

There are increasing concerns over the threat from cyber-attacks, which can cause damage to the country's economy.

The Netherlands has a temperate climate and rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The country periodically experiences flooding in low-lying areas following periods of heavy rainfall. Oil spills occasionally occur along the Dutch coast. Local authorities are well-trained to respond to such incidents.

There are no major specific health concerns in the Netherlands. Food and water are generally considered safe. Medical care of a high standard is widely available.

The Netherlands is a federal multi-party representative parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. The Prime Minister is the head of government, while the monarch is the head state. The monarch, prime minister, and cabinet together exercise executive power, while legislative power resides with the States General (parliament), which in turn consists of the House of Representatives and Senate. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. Presidential and parliamentary elections take place at least once every four years.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses occasionally occur. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.