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Abstract

The Netherlands faces heightened vulnerability to disruptions due to its geographical location, dense population, technological reliance, and economic interconnectedness. While large-scale disasters pose significant risks, smaller-scale incidents—such as criminal activity, polarization, activism, and threats to officials—can also hinder governmental functions and societal stability. To address these challenges, Dutch authorities have developed various crisis, contingency, and incident response plans, reflecting a broader international trend toward preparedness and inter-organizational cooperation. This report examines the historical development and current state of crisis and disaster response in the Netherlands, identifying opportunities to strengthen existing structures. Drawing on academic literature, policy documents, practical experiences, and international insights, the study seeks to answer the central question: What is needed to make the existing crisis and disaster structures in the Netherlands work better?

Author: BJ Rinsampessy