Vrije nieuwsgaring

Freedom of newsgathering constitutes a core element of press freedom in the Netherlands and enables the media to uncover facts and bring irregularities to light. This right is enshrined in Article 7 of the Constitution and is further protected by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

In practice, this right must be balanced against other interests, such as privacy, national security or the confidentiality of sources. The courts assess whether any restriction is necessary and proportionate.

For law firms, this is relevant in proceedings concerning press publications, the protection of sources or access to information.