The Netherlands is losing its grip on data: is Private Cloud the solution?
Hundreds of different cloud services, too few strategic risk assessments, but above all a lack of clear policy: the Dutch government is increasingly losing control over where it stores important data.
The recently published report 'The State in the Cloud' by the Court of Audit shows that the current use of cloud within the Dutch government is worrying. The policy in particular - and the lack thereof - is causing a lot of commotion. While one government agency sets strict requirements for data management, another agency switches to a public cloud without much risk analysis.
Data sovereignty at risk
The same report shows that more than fifty percent of the cloud providers used by the government are owned by American companies. This dependence on hyperscalers such as Microsoft, Google, and Amazon means that sensitive government data may fall under foreign jurisdiction, which threatens Dutch data sovereignty.
For example, the US CLOUD Act (Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data Act) allows US authorities to demand access to data managed by US companies—even if that data is physically stored in Europe.
“All of this leads to risks regarding digital autonomy, continuity of service, and data protection,” said State Secretary Szabó in response to the Court of Audit’s investigation. “Citizens and businesses must be able to trust that the government handles their data responsibly and carries out its tasks reliably.”
Interconnect CEO Rob Stevens sees more and more organizations moving toward the Private Cloud due to increasing dependency: “The need for data sovereignty goes beyond the government. That is why we are seeing more organizations choose our Private Cloud. Interconnect’s Private Cloud guarantees that data is hosted on Dutch soil under European legislation in our high-tech data centers.”
Private Cloud as a solution
The Dutch government still often chooses a Public Cloud because of its flexibility and economies of scale. However, a Private Cloud offers unique advantages, such as greater control, enhanced security, and customization options. By managing data within national borders and under Dutch jurisdiction, full control is guaranteed and unwanted foreign interference is prevented.
“Strict security standards, such as ISO 27001 and NEN 7510, play an important role in this,” Stevens explains. “This is how we ensure that data is optimally protected. Additionally, Interconnect’s Private Cloud prevents dependency on foreign cloud providers and offers more control over data and customized solutions, which is essential for a stable and secure digital infrastructure.”
Clear cloud policy
In his response, State Secretary Szabó emphasizes the urgency of a clear cloud policy to protect Dutch digital autonomy. Without a clear strategy, the government remains vulnerable. A private cloud such as that of Interconnect, hosted in the Netherlands under European legislation, offers a crucial solution: full control, maximum security and no risk of foreign interference.