Dutch Government Urged to Boost Innovation Amid Climate and Economic Challenges
The Hague, Monday, 30 June 2025.
Jeroen van Vugt highlights the urgent need for the Dutch government to embrace innovation policies, crucial for tackling climate change and economic growth, as he joins the European Commission.
The Call for Innovation
Jeroen van Vugt, who recently transitioned from his role as Director of Strategy and Innovation at the Dutch National Police to an advisory position at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG HOME), stresses the necessity for the Dutch government to prioritize innovation. He argues that without embracing technological advancements, the government risks losing its relevance and legitimacy [1]. This need for innovation is essential in confronting pressing issues such as climate change and economic sustainability [2].
Understanding Societal Impacts
Van Vugt highlights how society quickly integrates innovations like AI models, influencing not only how individuals interact but also their broader societal behaviors. He suggests that to maintain its authority and effectiveness, the government must anticipate and incorporate these technological changes into its core functions [1][2]. Innovations, he notes, are not solely for enhancing auxiliary procedures but are crucial in redefining primary governmental roles and responsibilities [1].
Challenges and Solutions in Policy Frameworks
Despite notable achievements in certain sectors, Van Vugt points out that many governmental organizations still fail to reward innovation adequately, often prioritizing immediate political agendas over long-term strategies [1][3]. He advocates for a comprehensive innovation policy regime that fosters experimentation and scalability, which is particularly challenging yet essential for governmental progress [1].
Collaborative Efforts for the Future
Collaboration across various public sectors, particularly in addressing large themes like AI, drones, and quantum computing, is critical. Van Vugt underscores the role of platforms like the Rijks Innovatie Community in facilitating dialogue across government to ensure innovations are effectively integrated [3]. This collaborative approach is vital to bolster the Netherlands’ standing globally in innovation and sustainability, particularly under initiatives like the Kennis- en Innovatieagenda’s framework for digitalization [4].