Research Strengthens Local Cyber Resilience Within Municipal Boundaries

A new study on cyber resilience within municipal boundaries sheds light on how digital security is organised and implemented at the local level in the Netherlands. The research provides a concrete elaboration of the Governance Agreement on Digital Security (Bestuurlijk Convenant Digitale Veiligheid-2022) and, for the first time, offers an integrated overview of the local system of policy, implementation and oversight.

The study maps four closely connected domains that together shape municipal cyber resilience:

• municipal ICT security,

• the handling of cyber incidents,

• the prevention and combating of cybercrime, and

• the early detection of online disturbances to public order.

By bringing these elements together, the research makes the role of municipalities in digital security more tangible and actionable, supporting local authorities in navigating their responsibilities in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

This week, the research report, together with a policy response, was submitted to the Dutch House of Representatives. This positions the findings firmly within the framework of the Dutch Cybersecurity Strategy and underlines the importance of coordinated action across national, regional, and local levels.

The study also underscores the importance of collaboration among government bodies, knowledge institutions, and the private sector. Such cooperation is essential to strengthening cyber resilience and ensuring a secure and resilient digital society.

The research outcomes have been further translated into practical insights for municipalities through recent publications by the Dutch Association of Municipalities (VNG).

Read the VNG publications here: 

Onderzoeksrapport 'Cyberweerbaarheid binnen gemeentegrenzen'

Onderzoek maakt rol gemeente in digitale veiligheid concreet

Photocredits: Zheka-Boss