Extension of VOG application helps combat subversion in port areas
Subversion is a broad social problem. The question of how to become more resilient against criminal interference was discussed at the entrepreneurs’ dinner, where government, entrepreneurs and knowledge institutions came together to discuss how to block criminals. Research shows that 86% of major criminal networks in Europe use legitimate business structures to access markets, money-laundering routes and sensitive information.
Resilience and safety are actively promoted by initiatives such as the Alert Register Logistics Sector and the Safe Entrepreneurship Action Programme. Cooperation between companies, government and other parties is essential to systematically counter organised crime to ensure a safe and sound economic environment.
Minister of Justice and Security David van Weel emphasised at the meeting:
“Criminals can only succeed with help from within. This requires awareness in government and the business community about vulnerabilities in processes and functions. By acting together, we can make businesses more resilient against ever increasing subversive crime.”
Subversive crime occurs when criminals misuse legal structures, such as businesses and government departments, to carry out illegal activities. This happens, for example, in the port sector, where criminal networks infiltrate transport and logistics processes to facilitate drug smuggling and other illicit trafficking. This undermines the security and integrity of the economy and society.
To combat criminal interference, screening authority Justis is expanding the application procedure for the Certificate of Conduct (VOG) as from 3 March 2025 to include a new risk area: location, specifically targeting port areas. It allows employers in the port sector to screen more specifically for criminal offences relevant to positions within the port area. This should prevent individuals with criminal backgrounds from gaining access to vulnerable locations, such as container terminals and distribution centres. This measure marks an important step in tackling subversion and protecting the integrity of the port sector.
Originally published at https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2025/03/04/extension-of-vog-application-helps-combat-subversion-in-port-areas
