Dutch Municipalities Unite for Cybersecurity Enhancement
The Hague, Thursday, 17 July 2025.
A Dutch consortium of municipalities, TNO, and universities starts a two-year project to boost cybersecurity in municipal systems, targeting infrastructure vulnerabilities.
Project Overview and Objectives
The consortium, comprising municipalities such as Eindhoven, Rotterdam, and Zoetermeer, along with TNO and other institutions, has embarked on a pioneering two-year research project to bolster the digital resilience of municipal operational technology systems. This initiative is vital for protecting critical infrastructure like water management and traffic control, which are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks due to their reliance on internet-based technology [1].
Research Collaboration and Participants
The project involves a diverse consortium that includes The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, the Association of Dutch Municipalities, and Hudson Cybertec, among others. This collaboration aims to address the knowledge gaps and challenges municipalities face in securing their operational technology (OT) systems, which are essential for continuous municipal services [1].
Strategic Significance and Expected Outcomes
This research initiative is part of a larger strategy aimed at enhancing the cyber resilience of Dutch municipalities, in line with national regulations like the Dutch Cybersecurity Act. By developing smart solutions through practical research, the project will empower municipalities with the necessary tools and competencies to safeguard their digital operations against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats [1].
Future Steps and Integration
The insights gained from this project will not only be applied within the participating municipalities but will also be integrated into educational programs to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. The continuous collaboration between public, private, and academic sectors is expected to fortify the digital infrastructure of municipalities across the Netherlands [1].