Knowledge security

Countries or organisations can use our scientific knowledge in ways that may affect the national security of the Netherlands. The central government actively implements knowledge security policies that are designed to prevent the unwanted transfer or misuse of our knowledge assets, ensuring that researchers can maintain open and secure international collaborations.

Opportunities and risks of international collaboration 

International collaboration in science and higher education presents numerous opportunities for the Netherlands. The central government actively supports this collaboration. Yet, it is also aware of the risks, such as when other countries utilise our technological expertise for military purposes. It is known that other countries occasionally put pressure on researchers or knowledge institutions to adopt a certain position or adjust their research agendas. 

Cooperation and knowledge contact point 

The central government and knowledge institutions are united in their efforts to maintain vigilance about the risks associated with international collaboration. Awareness of these risks is crucial for scientists and researchers, as they are often most knowledgeable about their field and the potential dangers.

The National Knowledge Security Guidelines  act as a guide for governing boards of knowledge institutions, providing them with helpful tools to adequately weigh the opportunities against the risks (including security risks) of international collaboration (in Dutch).

Knowledge institutions can also get in touch with the national Contact Point for Knowledge Security for questions regarding opportunities, risks and practical matters concerning international cooperation, for example. The Contact Point for Knowledge Security works with knowledge institutions and has set up a learning community to share knowledge. They also organise events and develop e-learnings.

Government plan for screening researchers

The government is preparing legislation to implement screening procedures for researchers at universities of applied sciences, research universities and research institutions. Specifically, this legislation aims to prevent the unwanted transfer or misuse of sensitive knowledge and technology through researchers and Master’s students who intend to work on or with  sensitive knowledge and technology.

It is up to each knowledge institution to determine which departments, programmes and research areas are affected. This necessitates a customised approach and places a significant burden on knowledge institutions. Discussions are ongoing between the central government and knowledge institutions to identify needs and assess feasibility.