Benelux, Safety
Benelux countries strengthen their common approach to security risks and crises
12 Nov. 2026
From cross-border crime to cyber threats and natural disasters, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg are strengthening their cooperation to better address security risks and respond more quickly to crisis situations. During two strategic meetings held on 12 November at the Benelux House in Brussels, the three countries reviewed their cooperation and identified new ways to strengthen it.
Security challenges do not stop at national borders. An incident involving drones, a cyberattack, smuggling activities by air or a flood can have consequences in several countries. Effective cooperation between public authorities, emergency services and police forces is therefore essential.
On 12 November, representatives from Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg met at the Benelux House for two strategic meetings: one focusing on police cooperation and the other on crisis management. Both meetings aimed to strengthen the common approach to cross-border security challenges.
Police forces strengthen cross-border cooperation
The heads of the police forces of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg reviewed the results of police cooperation in 2026 and discussed priorities for 2027. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar) also participates regularly in these meetings and is an important partner in cross-border cooperation.
The agenda included tackling smuggling through general aviation, as part of the Benelux General Aviation project and joint operations such as Silent Skies. Cooperation between communication centres and investigative services, railway and motorway police networks, and the role of the KMar in border controls were also discussed.
Participants also exchanged views on tackling hybrid threats and strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries, particularly France and the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The implementation of the Benelux Treaty on Police Cooperation was also on the agenda. This treaty gives police forces new opportunities to cooperate across national borders.
Better preparedness for crises and emerging threats
The crisis management services of the three countries are also working to strengthen their common approach. During their strategic meeting, they discussed developments in hybrid threats, with particular attention to incidents involving drones and cyber threats. The importance of effective coordination between public authorities and private-sector partners was also highlighted.
Participants also shared their experiences of natural hazards, such as droughts and heatwaves, and discussed how authorities can prepare for and respond to them.
The meeting also marked progress on concrete initiatives. A technical arrangement concerning the designation of permanent liaison officers within the national crisis centres was signed. These contact points are intended to facilitate communication and coordination between the countries during crisis situations.
In addition, the Benelux Recommendation on Resilience is nearing completion. It will shortly enter the formal approval procedure, with signature expected in early 2027.
Next steps under the Belgian Presidency
Under the Belgian Presidency of the Benelux in 2027, this cooperation will continue to develop. Several workshops are planned, focusing on crisis management and communication, strengthening public-private partnerships, and cooperation between civilian and military actors.
Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg are thus continuing to develop a common approach that will help make the region safer and better prepared for crises.
