Benelux

Benelux Annual Report 2025 presented in Luxembourg

12 Jun. 2026

During the plenary session of the Benelux Parliament in Luxembourg, Ariadne Petridis, Secretary-General of the Benelux, presented the Benelux Union’s Annual Report 2025. The report provides an overview of the main results of the cooperation between Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, and shows how the three countries work together on security, economic growth and sustainable development.

The report highlights that close cooperation within the Benelux contributes to a safe, prosperous and sustainable future for the region.

In 2025, the Luxembourg Presidency took centre stage, focusing on progress, innovation and strengthened cooperation, both within and beyond the Benelux. Particular attention was paid to issues that directly affect citizens and businesses, such as security, the economy, sustainability and crisis management.

In the field of security, further steps were taken in the fight against fraud and organised crime, as well as in strengthening resilience. Cooperation between police services was intensified through joint controls, cross-border information exchange and joint operations, including against drug trafficking. An agreement to better tackle social fraud was also finalised.

Important results were also achieved in the economic domain. The Benelux countries continued to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), reduce administrative burdens and promote cross-border economic activities. This aims to make it easier for businesses to operate across borders.

In addition, progress was made on sustainability and forward-looking developments. Cooperation in digital innovation, artificial intelligence, sustainable energy and mobility was further strengthened. Crisis resilience also received particular attention, including through joint exercises on energy supply and initiatives in the field of water management.

Finally, in 2025 the Benelux continued to invest in cooperation with neighbouring countries and European partners. Cooperation with North Rhine-Westphalia and the Greater Region was further deepened. An action plan was also signed with Hauts-de-France to further strengthen cooperation. By sharing knowledge and implementing joint projects, the three countries aim to further develop their role as a laboratory for European cooperation.