The Netherlands has started to reduce the amount of intelligence shared with the United States, motivated by concerns regarding the politicisation of intelligence services and human rights. The Dutch intelligence chiefs of the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) have confirmed they are more selective in their cooperation with the CIA and NSA. While operational relationships remain strong, the Dutch stance has become more critical.
Amid these transatlantic shifts, the Netherlands is increasing intelligence cooperation within Europe, particularly with the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, France, and Poland. This collaboration aims to counter escalating cyber threats from Russia and China, with Russian intelligence successfully executing numerous hacks on Dutch institutions and companies annually. China is also seen as a cyber superpower, with concerns raised about close-access operations targeting Dutch citizens travelling to China.
The decision to limit data sharing reflects broader worries about data protection and democratic rights. These concerns have prompted calls for greater transparency and a reassessment of intelligence partnerships. The situation presents a dilemma for the Netherlands, as withholding intelligence from the U.S. could mean losing access to critical information.
