16. Elections and referendums

16.1 Campaign events

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs must be notified at least two weeks in advance of the participation by representatives of a foreign state in events organised in the Netherlands in the run up to elections or referendums in their sending state. This notification must be submitted by Note Verbale to the relevant regional department (see note verbale Min-BuZa.2021.987 dated 23 February 2021).

Any such participation must take place in accordance with the laws of the Netherlands and with safety regulations, and show respect for the local setting.

Representatives of a foreign state are not permitted to participate in events organised in the Netherlands in the run up to elections or referendums in their sending state in the three months prior to these elections or referendums. The prohibition referred to in the previous sentence does not apply to representatives of EU member states.


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16.2 Polling stations

A diplomatic mission or consular post may open a polling station on its premises without requesting permission. However, it should notify the Ministry accordingly well in advance so that the police can prepare for potentially large crowds. 

The mission or post may also arrange for a polling station to be set up at a location other than its premises. As soon as a suitable location has been found, the Ministry would appreciate receiving a Note Verbale specifying the location, the polling date and the number of voters expected, so that it can inform the competent security authorities. The Ministry always advises missions and posts to contact the relevant municipality/municipalities in order to discuss any further logistical measures or local requirements.


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