Partner violence

In the Netherlands, partner violence is a criminal offence.

Hitting a partner can be punished with prison sentence. When this violence causes lasting injuries to the victim, the punishment can be more severe. Not only physical violence, but also harassment and verbal violence can be punished.

If you find yourself in an emergency situation and are afraid of further violence, you can go to a shelter (Blijf van mijn lijf huis). The person who threatens to commit domestic violence or child abuse can be issued with a domestic exclusion order (huisverbod), prohibiting that person from entering the home for a period of 10 days. This period can be extended by 4 weeks.

Across the Netherlands there are special organisations, such as Veilig Thuis, which offer shelter and support. You can call them or visit them. They can go with you to the police, a doctor or a court. When you contact Veilig Thuis, you do not have to give your name. You can get help and advice anonymously and free of charge.

You can also go to the police immediately to file a complaint. They are obliged to respect your privacy. If you are afraid of further violence, the police can protect you, and the person committing the violence can be issued with a temporary domestic exclusion order (huisverbod). The police are obliged to treat you in a respectful and correct way.

According to the law, if you are without legal residence status, the police have to treat you with the same respect as other victims. The police will not arrest you because you have no residence permit, and you can report the crime anonymously. If you want, a social worker or another social organisation can accompany you. 

Help for perpetrators

If you feel you have been violent in a relationship or you feel there is a risk that you will become violent towards another person, you can seek help. Therapy can help you to talk about your feelings and behaviour and to prevent you from becoming violent (again).