Policy proposal "Wolken aan de horizon"
An independent digital Netherlands is getting closer. On Monday, June 2, 2025, Members of Parliament Jesse Six Dijkstra (NSC) and Barbara Kathmann (GroenLinks-PvdA) presented the policy proposal “Wolken aan de horizon” (translated: “Clouds on the Horizon”), in which they advocate for the development of a national cloud infrastructure by 2029. The proposal is a response to the growing dependence on American tech giants.
Why this plan is necessary
- Digital autonomy: The Netherlands must retain control over critical digital services.
- Strategic autonomy: Independence in ICT infrastructure is essential for national security.
A three-pronged approach
- Keep essential digital government services under national management.
- Use government purchasing power to support Dutch and European cloud providers.
- Actively seek cooperation with other European countries to strengthen our position in the cloud market.
Target: 2029
By that year, a mature national cloud infrastructure should be in place, offering a credible alternative to foreign hyperscalers through European and Dutch providers.
Digital infrastructure as a public responsibility
According to the proposal, digital infrastructure is just as fundamental as roads, dikes, and railways. Political leadership is needed to protect public values and make the market fairer and more diverse. The government must take an active role in this.
