Samenvatting

When thinking of restrictions on internet freedom, people often look to countries such as Egypt and Libya. But internet freedom in countries such as the Netherlands also warrants close examination. This article discusses a selection of Dutch measures which infringe on the fundamental right to privacy and communication freedom on the internet. With regard to privacy, it starts with the Dutch law requiring telecommunications providers to retain customer data, such as all records and location data. Also the plans to monitor internet traffic by the intelligence services as well as the lack of transparency on data requests by the Dutch government are discussed. With regard to communications freedom, the new Dutch law on net neutrality is analysed and described as positive for internet freedom. However, the author also sees developments threatening internet freedom. He mentions plans to introduce web blocking for websites facilitating copyright infringement and a draft law to allow the police to take down websites without judicial intervention. The author argues that the Netherlands should significantly improve its own state of internet freedom, especially if it wants to credibly claim that other countries should protect internet freedom.