The Dutch Committee for Human Rights has written to the Dutch Department of Justice expressing concerns about barriers to effective access to a lawyer under emergency COVID regulations. Telephone access to detained clients is often inadequate and not sufficiently confidential. Furthermore, in emergency bail hearings, prosecutors are generally physically present, while suspects and defense lawyers are encouraged to join remotely, and the public is excluded from access. Concerns were also raised about the limitations on rehabilitation activities and other fundamental rights for detained people.

We publish information as it is reported to us. If you would like to make us aware of an inaccuracy or send us more information please email us at [email protected]