Neutral presence for special enforcement officers
Special enforcement officers should have a neutral presence. For that reason, they are no longer permitted to wear visible personal statements, such as religious symbols, whilst on duty.
This measure is intended to strengthen confidence in their impartiality and authority. That neutral presence will be laid down in an Order in Council expected to come into force in 2025, after which the work of all special enforcement officers in the Netherlands will be clear-cut and recognisable.
Minister David van Weel (Justice and Security): “Special enforcement offers must exude authority and operate neutrally on the streets. The issue here is the neutrality of the institution someone represents, not the neutrality of the person. They play a vital role in protecting our state under the rule of law and bear a heavy responsibility, certainly when force is needed. That calls for a neutral uniform, free of adornments.”
Originally published at https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2024/11/14/neutral-presence-for-special-enforcement-officers
