On 1 October in Delft, Minister Karremans (Economic Affairs) launched the campaign ‘Bescherm wat je sterk maakt’ ('Protect what makes you strong'). This Dutch campaign is aimed at raising awareness among innovative and knowledge-intensive companies of the risks of espionage, knowledge theft and unwanted foreign investments. With increasing geopolitical tensions, Dutch technology is coming under growing pressure, with direct consequences for both competitiveness and national security.
Campaign components
During the launch in Delft, Minister Karremans visited two knowledge-intensive start-ups: Lobster Robotics, which develops autonomous underwater drones (including for Defence) to map the seabed in detail, and CIWI, which creates innovative technology for water purification.
The campaign is not only about raising awareness, but also offers entrepreneurs concrete tools to strengthen their economic security. The components of the campaign include:
- The EV step-by-step plan, a document with targeted questions to assess risks and determine which measures are relevant for your business operations.
- The EV scan, an analysis that provides insight into possible measures and actions you can take.
- The website maakjebedrijfweerbaar.nl, with guidelines, tools and up-to-date information.
- The Entrepreneurs’ Counter for Economic Security, for practical tips, preventive advice and support with complex issues.
Please note: all links lead to Dutch-language resources. These can be translated in your browser. EV is the Dutch abbreviation for Economische Veiligheid (Economic Security). This abbreviation is not translated into English.
Growing urgency
The campaign builds on agreements made earlier this year during the NATO summit in The Hague on investments in security and independence. With further support measures, regulation and international cooperation, the government aims to structurally strengthen the economic security of the Netherlands.
