Netherlands passes law targeting digital and diaspora espionage

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - The Dutch parliament on Tuesday approved a law criminalizing digital espionage and diaspora espionage, which refers to foreign powers attempting to influence communities in the Netherlands with ties to those countries.

The new law expands on existing legislation, criminalizing actions such as leaking information or working for foreign governments that harm Dutch interests. Offenders can face up to eight years in prison, with a maximum of 12 years for severe cases, such as espionage leading to death.

"Espionage is, unfortunately, a frequent reality. As a nation, we must strengthen our resilience against attacks and threats from abroad. This law enhances our ability to protect the Netherlands from emerging forms of espionage," Justice Minister David van Weel said.

Last year, the Dutch intelligence service warned that Chinese cyber espionage was more extensive than initially thought and was targeting Western governments and defence companies.

In 2022, the Dutch government ordered two Chinese offices in the Netherlands to close amidst a probe into their activities. China said they were centres to help Chinese citizens renew documents, but a Dutch media report alleged they were intimidating Chinese dissidents.

(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)