Dutch spy agencies to get more powers against foreign enemies
The Netherlands’ two intelligence agencies are to gain new powers to track and disrupt “obvious adversaries” such as Russian hackers,...
The Dutch intelligence agencies, AIVD and MIVD, are set to gain new powers to track and disrupt potential adversaries, including Russian hackers, Chinese spies, and Iranian operatives, without requiring prior approval. Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgöz stated that once a foreign service is classified as an adversary, they would be able to pursue anyone suspected of working for it, subject to a post-operation review for legitimacy and to stop any inappropriate actions.
This new legislation has raised concerns about the privacy of Dutch citizens, with Yesilgöz asserting that the privacy of the people of the Netherlands should be protected over that of outsiders like Putin and his associates. The bill also allows for tighter collaborations between the agencies and Dutch institutions such as banks, universities, and online platforms, enabling them to provide warnings of risks and demand information from these entities when necessary.
Oversight of the two agencies will be consolidated into a single entity. The draft is currently open for public consultation before it is presented to parliament.
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