HSD Takes Prominent Place in Coalition Agreement Municipality of The Hague

On 12 June the political parties D66, PvdA, HSP, VVD, and CDA presented their preliminary coalition agreement for The Hague City Council. The agreement specifically mentions HSD as a key innovation cluster for the economic development of the city. It emphasises the strong position of HSD in Europe and the importance of the security sector in relation to The Hague’s  position as International City of Peace and Justice. Indeed, “HSD has the potential to become the largest European knowledge cluster on security, which suits the International City of Peace and Justice. We will facilitate the further development of the HSD Campus, the national innovation center for security.”

Local entrepreneurship, congresses, and an educated workforce are also amongst the coalition’s focal points. In the coming four years SMEs in the security sector will receive more assistance and will be involved more intensely in international trade missions. The Hague’s livability and accessibility will be improved in order to attract more regional, national, and international businesses.

Urban security is a significant factor for an attractive business climate and HSD’s living labs are strong assets for improving the security-level in The Hague. HSD’s SME Connect plays an important role in connecting local SMEs and large organisations and thus in strengthening the local economy. The agreement also mentions the importance of joining forces with companies, research institutions, and governments from the Metropolitan Region Rotterdam The Hague, Amsterdam, and Eindhoven and Twente. HSD, as the national security cluster, is a great example of such regional and national cooperation. On top of this, HSD’s congress acquisition strategy will contribute significantly to the number of congresses taking place in The Hague. HSD’s efforts to align educational programs with the needs of businesses is an important aspect as well in strengthening HSD’s position within the city.

Ingrid van Engelshoven (D66), councilor for knowledge economy, international, youth, and education, will be responsible for HSD in the city counsel.