Source: This text is based on a social media post (X, formerly Twitter) and requires independent verification due to the source’s untrusted nature.
Date of Original Text: 2026-01-26 18:42:00
Criticism of Reduced Buurtwerking (Local policing) in the netherlands
Table of Contents
A critic, identified only through the provided text as posting on X, argues that a reduction in *buurtwerking* (local policing) in the Netherlands will lead to negative consequences, including a 40% decrease in neighborhood-level policing efforts, increased costs for police, the justice system, and victims of crime, and constitutes poor budgetary policy.
As of January 26, 2026, no independent, authoritative sources have confirmed these specific claims. A search for related news articles and official statements regarding changes to *buurtwerking* funding and implementation is ongoing.
What is *Buurtwerking*?
*Buurtwerking* refers to a community-based policing approach in the Netherlands, where police officers are actively engaged in local neighborhoods to build relationships, prevent crime, and address community concerns. Dutch National Police - Community Policing defines it as a proactive approach focused on collaboration wiht residents and local organizations.
Detail: This approach emphasizes visibility, accessibility, and problem-solving in partnership with the community. It differs from customary reactive policing by prioritizing prevention and addressing the root causes of crime.
Example: A typical *buurtwerking* activity might involve officers regularly patrolling neighborhoods on foot or bicycle, attending local meetings, and working with schools and community groups to address issues like vandalism or petty theft.
Potential Consequences of Reduction in *Buurtwerking*
The critic claims a 40% reduction in *buurtwerking* will result in increased costs for the police, justice system, and victims. This assertion suggests a belief that preventative policing is more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of crime after it occurs.
Detail: Reduced *buurtwerking* could lead to a decline in information gathering, slower response times to local issues, and a weakening of trust between the police and the community. This, in turn, could contribute to an increase in crime rates and a greater burden on the criminal justice system.
Example: If *buurtwerking* officers are reduced, fewer eyes and ears will be available to identify and address potential problems before they escalate. This could lead to an increase in reported incidents requiring intervention from more expensive specialized units.
Dutch Policing and Budgetary Concerns
The Netherlands has faced ongoing discussions regarding police funding and resource allocation. Rijksoverheid – Police (Dutch Government Portal) provides information on national policing policies and budgets.
Detail: Budgetary constraints frequently enough necessitate difficult choices regarding the allocation of resources within the police force. These choices can impact the level of investment in community-based policing initiatives like *buurtwerking*.
Example: In 2023, the Dutch government allocated approximately €9.5 billion to policing,according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS). Changes to this budget can directly affect the scope and effectiveness of *buurtwerking* programs.
Disclaimer: This information is based on a single, untrusted source and requires further verification. The claims made have not been independently confirmed as of January 26, 2026.
