Regions Europe Western Europe Netherlands

Netherlands — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law

expand all collapse all

StockpilesGun Numbers
Civilian Guns
Compare
Number of Privately Owned FirearmsChartThe estimated total number of guns (both licit and illicit) held by civilians in the Netherlands is 

2017: 442,0001
2007: 510,0002
Compare
Rate of Civilian Firearm Possession per 100 PopulationChartThe estimated rate of private gun ownership (both licit and illicit) per 100 people in the Netherlands is 

2017: 2.601
2007: 3.92
Compare
Number of Privately Owned Firearms - World RankingIn a 2007 comparison of the number of privately owned guns in 178 countries, the Netherlands ranked at No. 783
Compare
Rate of Privately Owned Firearms per 100 Population - World RankingIn a 2007 comparison of the rate of private gun ownership in 178 countries, the Netherlands ranked at No. 1122
Compare
Proportion of Adults Living in a Home With a GunIn the Netherlands, the percentage of adults living in a household with a firearm is reported to be 

2015: 1%4
Compare
Proportion of Households with FirearmsChartIn the Netherlands, the percentage of households with one or more guns is reported to be 

2005: 4.8%5
1999/2003: 1.7%
1995/98: 2.3%
1992: 1.9%6
1992/94: 2.0%5
1989: 2.0%
Compare
Proportion of Households with RiflesIn the Netherlands, the percentage of households with one or more rifles is reported to be 

1992: 0.7%6
Compare
Proportion of Households with ShotgunsIn the Netherlands, the percentage of households with one or more shotguns is reported to be 

1992: 0.0%6
Compare
Proportion of Households with HandgunsChartIn the Netherlands, the percentage of households with one or more handguns is reported to be 

2005: 1.3%5
1999/2003: 0.8%
1995/98: 0.9%
1992/94: 1.4%5 6
1989: 0.9%
Compare
Number of Registered FirearmsChartThe number of registered guns in the Netherlands is reported to be 

2017: 205,3471
2007: 330,0002
Compare
Rate of Registered Firearms per 100 PopulationThe rate of registered guns per 100 people in the Netherlands is 2.027
Compare
Estimated Number of Illicit FirearmsChartUnlawfully held guns cannot be counted, but in the Netherlands there are estimated to be 

2017: 236,6531
2005: 85,000 - 125,0008
Compare
Estimated Rate of Illicit Firearms per 100 PopulationUnlawfully held guns cannot be counted, but in the Netherlands the rate of illicit firearms per 100 people is estimated to be 0.777
Government Guns
Compare
Number of Military FirearmsThe defence forces of the Netherlands are reported to have 108,6769 firearms
Compare
Number of Law Enforcement FirearmsPolice in the Netherlands are reported to have 96,00010 firearms

ImpactsDeath and InjuryCompare
Total Number of Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual deaths resulting from firearms total 

7811
74
71
92
96
76
10712 13
93
90
94
113
114
123
122
136
130
145
131
133
143 
Compare
Rate of All Gun Deaths per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of all gun deaths per 100,000 population is 

0.4611
0.44
0.42
0.55
0.58
0.46
0.65
0.57
0.55
0.58
0.69
0.70
0.76
0.76
0.85
0.82
0.92
0.83
0.85
0.92
Compare
Total Number of Male Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual male deaths resulting from firearms total 

7111
70
62
84
81
69
Compare
Total Number of Female Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual female deaths resulting from firearms total 

711
4
9
8
15
7
Compare
Homicides (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual homicides by any means total 

10414
123
125
145
143
144
175
176
164
159
197
223
247
224
264
223
23015 16 17 18
208
23715 16 17 18 19
240
29915 18 19 
Compare
Rate of Homicide per 100,000 People (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of homicide by any means per 100,000 population is 

0.4611
0.44
0.42
0.55
0.58
0.46
1.06
1.07
1.00
0.97
1.21
1.37
1.52
1.39
1.65
1.40
1.457 18
1.32
1.527 18 19
1.54
1.918 19
Compare
Male Homicide Victims (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual male homicides by any means total 

6220
93
69
95
93
90
Compare
Female Homicide Victims (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual female homicides by any means total 

4220
30
56
50
50
54
Compare
Gun HomicidesChartIn the Netherlands, annual firearm homicides total 

3111
40
28
49
4914
33
5515 12 13 21 22 18
52
47
43
63
6715 12 13 21 18
7515 12 13 21
80
91
81
89
74
78
86 
Compare
Rate of Gun Homicide per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of firearm homicide per 100,000 population is 

0.1811
0.24
0.17
0.29
0.29
0.20
0.337 21 18
0.32
0.29
0.26
0.39
0.417 21 18
0.467 21
0.50
0.57
0.51
0.56
0.47
0.50
0.55
0.3623
Compare
Proportion of Homicides Committed With a GunChartIn the Netherlands, the percentage of homicides committed with a firearm is reported to be 

34%22 24
23%
27%
25%
28%
24%
31%
29.9%18
Compare
Male Gun Homicide VictimsChartIn the Netherlands, annual male firearm homicides total 

3911
39
23
42
36
27
Compare
Female Gun Homicide VictimsChartIn the Netherlands, annual female firearm homicides total 

111
1
5
7
13
6
Compare
Handgun HomicidesChartIn the Netherlands, annual handgun homicides total 

013
2
213 21
2
013
113 21
2
1
2
1
5
4
5
3
1
1
2
3
4
3 
Compare
Rate of Handgun Homicide per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of handgun homicide per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.01
0.017 21
0.01
0.007
0.017 21
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.03
0.02
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.02
0.03
0.02
Compare
Long Gun HomicidesChartIn the Netherlands, annual long gun homicides total 

013
1
0
113 21
1
1
1
1
013
0
0
0
213 21
1
013
113 21
013
113 21
1
013 
Compare
Rate of Long Gun Homicide per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of long gun homicide per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.01
0.00
0.017 21
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 21
0.01
0.00
0.01
0.007
0.017 21
0.01
0.007
Compare
Gun Homicides (Other)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual gun homicides (other) total 

3113
37
2613 21
46
48
31
38
35
37
30
49
49
49
59
68
64
73
54
58
68 
Compare
Rate of Gun Homicide (Other) per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of gun homicide (other) per 100,000 population is 

0.187
0.22
0.157 21
0.27
0.29
0.19
0.23
0.21
0.23
0.18
0.30
0.30
0.30
0.37
0.42
0.40
0.46
0.34
0.37
0.44
Compare
Suicides (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual suicides by any means total 

1,87125
1,839
1,854
1,753
1,647
1,600
1,525
1,435
1,353
1,524
1,572
1,514
1,500
1,567
1,473
1,500
1,51725 26
1,51925
1,570
1,577 
Compare
Rate of Suicide per 100,000 People (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of suicide by any means per 100,000 population is 

11.0411
10.90
11.03
10.48
9.89
9.65
9.25
8.74
8.27
9.34
9.64
9.31
9.25
9.71
9.18
9.42
9.597 26
9.667
10.05
10.14
10.3027
Compare
Male Suicide Victims (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual male suicides by any means total 

1,28011
1,250
1,305
1,186
1,136
1,124
Compare
Female Suicide Victims (any method)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual female suicides by any means total 

59111
589
549
567
511
476
Compare
Gun SuicidesChartIn the Netherlands, annual firearm suicides total 

4713
33
4313 28
4213 28 29
4713 28
40
52
40
42
50
49
45
46
39
43
47
51
53
50
55 
Compare
Rate of Gun Suicide per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of firearm suicide per 100,000 population is 

0.2811
0.20
0.26
0.25
0.28
0.24
0.32
0.24
0.26
0.31
0.30
0.28
0.28
0.24
0.27
0.30
0.32
0.34
0.32
0.35
0.3130
Compare
Male Gun Suicide VictimsChartIn the Netherlands, annual male firearm suicides total 

4511
30
39
41
45
39
Compare
Female Gun Suicide VictimsChartIn the Netherlands, annual female firearm suicides total 

211
3
4
1
2
1
Compare
Handgun SuicidesChartIn the Netherlands, annual handgun suicides total 

513
3
413 28
5
8
1
7
6
3
9
19
11
8
11
6
12
6
9
15
8 
Compare
Rate of Handgun Suicide per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of handgun suicide per 100,000 population is 

0.037
0.02
0.027 28
0.03
0.05
0.01
0.04
0.04
0.02
0.06
0.12
0.07
0.05
0.07
0.04
0.08
0.04
0.06
0.10
0.05
Compare
Long Gun SuicidesChartIn the Netherlands, the number of long gun suicides is 

413
1
413 28
6
3
3
6
3
3
5
6
6
9
3
013
113 28
5
3
2
7 
Compare
Rate of Long Gun Suicide per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of long gun suicide per 100,000 population is 

0.027
0.01
0.027 28
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.03
0.04
.004
0.06
0.02
0.007
0.017 28
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.05
Compare
Gun Suicides (Other)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual gun suicides (other) total 

3813
29
3513 28
31
36
36
39
31
36
36
24
28
29
25
37
34
40
41
33
40 
Compare
Rate of Gun Suicide (Other) per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of gun suicide (other) per 100,000 population is 

0.227
0.17
0.217 28
0.19
0.22
0.22
0.24
0.19
0.22
0.22
0.15
0.17
0.18
0.15
0.23
0.21
0.25
0.26
0.21
0.26
Compare
Unintentional Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual unintentional shooting deaths total 

013
1
0
113 31 29
013
113 31
013
0
0
0
0
213 31
1
3
1
2
5
3
3
1 
Compare
Rate of Unintentional Gun Death per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unintentional shooting death per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.01
0.00
0.01
0.007
0.01
0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 31
0.01
0.02
0.01
0.01
0.03
0.02
0.02
0.01
0.0132
Compare
Unintentional Male Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual unintentional male shooting deaths total 

011
1
0
1
0
1
Compare
Unintentional Female Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual unintentional female shooting deaths total 

011
0
0
0
0
0
Compare
Unintentional Handgun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual unintentional shooting deaths by handgun total 

013
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
213 31
1
013
113 31
013
113 31
1 
Compare
Rate of Unintentional Handgun Death per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unintentional shooting death by handgun per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 31
0.01
0.007
0.017 31
0.007
0.017 31
0.01
Compare
Unintentional Long Gun DeathsChartIn the Netherlands, annual unintentional shooting deaths by long gun total 

013
0
0
113 31
013
113 31
013
0
0
0
0
0
0
113 31
013
0
0
0
0
0 
Compare
Rate of Unintentional Long Gun Death per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unintentional shooting death by long gun per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.00
0.00
0.017 31
0.007
0.017 31
0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 31
0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
Compare
Unintentional Gun Deaths (Other)ChartIn the Netherlands, annual unintentional shooting deaths by firearm (other) total 

013
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
213 31
1
013
0
213 31
4
3
2
013 
Compare
Rate of Unintentional Gun Death (Other) per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unintentional shooting death by firearm (other) per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 31
0.01
0.007
0.00
0.017 31
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.007
Compare
Gun Deaths from Undetermined CauseChartIn the Netherlands, annual shooting deaths in which the cause remains undecided total 

013
0
0
0
0
213 33
013
113 33
1
1
1
013
113 33
013
113 33
013
013 26
113 33
2
1 
Compare
Rate of Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unknown-cause shooting deaths per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 33
0.007
0.017 33
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.007
0.017 33
0.007
0.017 33
0.007
0.00
0.01
0.017 33
0.01
0.0334
Compare
Male Gun Deaths from Undetermined CauseChartIn the Netherlands, annual male shooting deaths in which the cause remains undecided total 

011
0
0
0
0
2
Compare
Female Gun Deaths from Undetermined CauseChartIn the Netherlands, annual female shooting deaths in which the cause remains undecided total 

011
0
0
0
0
0
Compare
Handgun Deaths from Undetermined CauseChartIn the Netherlands, annual deaths by handgun in which the cause remains undecided total 

013
0
0
0
0
113 33
013
0
0
113 33
013
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
113 33
013 
Compare
Rate of Handgun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unknown-cause handgun deaths per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 33
0.007
0.00
0.00
0.017 33
0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 33
0.007
Compare
Long Gun Deaths from Undetermined CauseChartIn the Netherlands, annual deaths by long gun in which the cause remains undecided total 

013
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0 
Compare
Rate of Long Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unknown-cause long gun deaths per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
Compare
Gun Deaths (Other) from Undetermined CauseChartIn the Netherlands, annual deaths by firearm (other) in which the cause remains undecided total 

013
0
0
0
0
113 33
013
113 33
1
013
113 33
013
113 33
013
113 33
013
0
113 33
1
1 
Compare
Rate of Gun Death (Other) from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 PeopleChartIn the Netherlands, the annual rate of unknown-cause gun deaths (other) per 100,000 population is 

0.007
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.017 33
0.007
0.017 33
0.01
0.007
0.017 33
0.007
0.017 33
0.007
0.017 33
0.007
0.00
0.017 33
0.01
0.01

ProductionGun IndustryCompare
Regulation of Firearm MakersIn the Netherlands, the manufacture of small arms, ammunition and/or their components is prohibited35 36 
Compare
Small Arms Manufacture - World RankingIn a classification of the world's small, medium and major firearm manufacturers, the Netherlands was ranked 'small'37

TransfersGun Trade and TraffickingCompare
Firearm ExportsIn the Netherlands, firearm and ammunition exports are limited by transfer control law38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48
Compare
Firearm Exports (Number)ChartThe annual number of firearms exported from the Netherlands is reported by manufacturers to be 

2017: 1,82349
2016: 2,107
2015: 1,156
2014: 1,053
2012: 10
2011: 692
2010: 472
2009: 1,176
2008: 1,865
2007: 787
Compare
Small Arms Exports (US$) - CustomsChartThe annual value of small arms and ammunition exports from the Netherlands is reported by Customs to be US$

2016: 5,306,99550
2015: 6,407,547
2014: 17,731,887
2013: 6,558,332
2012: 9,719,782
2011: 2,094,12251
Compare
Small Arms Exports - World RankingIn a comparison of the world's major/mid-level/minor/unknown small arms exporters, the Netherlands was categorized as 'minor'52
Compare
Firearm ImportsIn the Netherlands, firearm and ammunition imports are limited by transfer control law38 53 40 41 43 44 45 46 47
Compare
Firearm Imports (Number)ChartThe annual number of firearms imported to the Netherlands is reported to be 

2017: 40,76949
2016: 11,510
2015: 12,137
2014: 25,297
2013: 500
2012: 1,412
2011: 132
2010: 6,469
2009: 6,671
2008: 2,250
2007: 2,554
2006: 2,978
Compare
Small Arms Imports (US$) - CustomsChartThe annual value of small arms and ammunition imports to the Netherlands is reported by Customs to be US$

2016: 143,184,36350
2015: 113,745,888
2014: 117,378,527
2013: 105,467,718
2012: 89,708,16550 54 55
2011: 55,279,28551 56
2010: 88,000,00057
Compare
Smuggling Guns and AmmunitionReports suggest that the level of firearm and ammunition smuggling in the Netherlands is moderate58
Compare
Regulation of Arms BrokersIn the Netherlands, the activities of arms brokers and transfer intermediaries are specifically regulated by law59 60 61
Compare
End User CertificatesCustoms regulations in the Netherlands include38 certification of the intended end user of any small arms or ammunition transfer, and/or a written declaration of its intended end use
Compare
Transparency of Small Arms TransfersChartIn its annual Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer, the Small Arms Survey compares public reporting among major arms exporting nations on a scale from strong to weak (25 to zero). In recent years, the Netherlands scored 

2018: 20.0062
2016: 19.2563
2014: 19.2564
2013: 19.2565
2012: 18.5066
2011: 17.0067
2010: 17.0068
2009: 16.5069
2008: 17.0070
2007: 16.5071
2006: 16.2572
2005: 17.7573
2004: 13.0074 

MeasuresGun RegulationCompare
Firearm Regulation - Guiding PolicyThe regulation of guns in the Netherlands is categorised as restrictive75
Firearm LawGuiding gun control legislation in the Netherlands includes the Wet Wapens en Munitie 1997 [Arms and Ammunition Act],76 77 Algemene Douanewet 2008 [General Customs Law], Besluit Strategische Goederen 2008 [Decree on Strategic Goods],38 the Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons,78 79 the European Union Firearms Regulation of 2012 and the Common Position on the Control of Arms Brokering of 200380
Firearm Regulation AuthorityGuns in the Netherlands are regulated by the Ministry of Justice and the local Commissioner of Police,81 and the European Commission79
Compare
Right to Possess FirearmsIn the Netherlands, the right to private gun ownership is not guaranteed by law82 83 84
Compare
Restricted Firearms and AmmunitionIn the Netherlands, civilians are not allowed to possess automatic and 'Category II' firearms, incendiary and armour-piercing ammunition85 86 87 88 89
Compare
Regulation of Automatic WeaponsIn the Netherlands, private possession of fully automatic weapons is prohibited86 85 90 88 89 24
Compare
Regulation of Semiautomatic Assault WeaponsIn the Netherlands, private possession of semi-automatic assault weapons is prohibited86 85 90 91 92 89
Compare
Regulation of HandgunsIn the Netherlands, private possession of handguns (pistols and revolvers) is permitted under licence86 88 91 92 89 24
Compare
Law Regulates Long GunsIn the Netherlands,  civilian possession of rifles and shotguns is regulated by law24
Compare
Gun Ownership and PossessionIn the Netherlands, only licensed gun owners85 93 94 88 91 24 may lawfully acquire, possess or transfer a firearm or ammunition
Compare
Genuine Reason Required for Firearm PossessionApplicants for a gun owner’s licence in the Netherlands are required to establish a genuine reason to possess a firearm, for example hunting, sports shooting, collection93 95 85 96
Compare
Minimum Age for Firearm PossessionThe minimum age for gun ownership in the Netherlands is 18 years93 85 96
Compare
Gun Owner Background ChecksAn applicant for a firearm licence in the Netherlands must pass a background check which considers criminal93 96 24 records
Compare
Reference Required for Firearm LicenceIn the Netherlands, third party character references for each gun licence applicant are not required84
Compare
Domestic Violence and FirearmsWhere a past history, or apprehended likelihood of family violence exists, the law in the Netherlands does not stipulate84 that a gun licence should be denied or revoked
Compare
Firearm Safety TrainingIn the Netherlands, an understanding of firearm safety and the law, tested in a theoretical and/or practical training course is not required84 for a firearm licence
Compare
Gun Owner Licensing PeriodIn the Netherlands, gun owners must re-apply and re-qualify for their firearm licence every one year93
Compare
Limit on Number of GunsLicensed firearm owners in the Netherlands are permitted to possess any number of firearms84
Compare
Limit on Quantity, Type of AmmunitionLicensed firearm owners in the Netherlands are permitted to possess any quantity of ammunition84 97
Firearm Registration
Compare
Civilian Gun RegistrationIn the Netherlands, the law requires98 99 100 101 that a record of the acquisition, possession and transfer of each privately held firearm be retained in an official register
Compare
Gun Dealer Record KeepingIn the Netherlands, licensed firearm dealers are required101 to keep a record of each firearm or ammunition purchase, sale or transfer on behalf of a regulating authority
Compare
State-Owned Firearm RecordsIn the Netherlands, State agencies are required99 102 to maintain records of the storage and movement of all firearms and ammunition under their control
Gun Sales and Transfers
Compare
Regulation of Private Gun SalesIn the Netherlands, the private sale and transfer of firearms is prohibited36
Compare
Regulation of Dealer Gun SalesIn the Netherlands, dealing in firearms by way of business without a valid gun dealer’s licence is unlawful36 103 104 92
Compare
Waiting Period for Gun PossessionIn the Netherlands, the minimum wait for a lawful firearm purchase to be completed is undetermined84
Compare
Regulation of Gun ShowsIn the Netherlands, gun shows and temporary firearm dealing events are not regulated84 in law
Storage and Transport of Guns and Ammunition
Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - PrivateFirearm regulations in the Netherlands do not include84 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of private firearms and ammunition by licensed gun owners
Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - DealerFirearm regulations in the Netherlands do not include84 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by licensed arms dealers
Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - GovernmentGovernment regulations in the Netherlands include102 105  written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by state entities
Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Transport RegulationsRegulations in the Netherlands include106 107 105 41  written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition while in transit
Marking and Tracing Guns and Ammunition
Compare
Firearm MarkingIn the Netherlands, a unique identifying mark on each firearm is required by law108 109 110
Compare
Firearm TracingIn the Netherlands, state authorities carry out111 110 101 112 recognised arms tracing and tracking procedures
Compare
Ballistic Record of Firearms and AmmunitionIn the Netherlands, the ballistic characteristics of each civilian firearm and its ammunition are not84 recorded in a register
Carrying Guns
Compare
Carrying Guns Openly in PublicIn the Netherlands, carrying a firearm in plain view in a public place is prohibited113 24
Compare
Carrying Hidden Handguns in PublicIn the Netherlands, carrying a concealed firearm in a public place is prohibited113 24
Compare
Penalty for Illicit Firearm PossessionIn the Netherlands, the maximum penalty for unlawful possession of a firearm114 is no more than nine months in prison or a fine115 116
Collection, Amnesty and Destruction Programmes
Compare
Firearms Surrendered and SeizedIn the Netherlands, the number of firearms voluntarily surrendered, bought back or seized by authorities is reported to be 

2013/16: 24,000117
Compare
Small Arms DestroyedChartIn the Netherlands, the number of firearms destroyed following amnesty, collection and seizure programmes is reported to be 

1994/96: 143,632118
1991/2007: 143,632119
Compare
Destruction and Disposal PolicyIn the Netherlands, it is not state policy102 120 to destroy surplus, collected and seized firearms rather than return them to the secondary arms market

MeasuresInternational Controls
Regional Agreements
European UnionAs a member of the European Union, the Netherlands is bound by the provisions of the ‘EU Firearms Directive’ – the 2007 Legislative Resolution on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons of the European Parliament121 122
European Union Export ReportingUnder the European Union Common Position on Arms Exports, the Netherlands is bound to declare its transfers of military technology and equipment. Independent monitoring provides detailed comparisons of arms export reporting compliance across EU member states, and records that the Netherlands have submitted one or more national reports123 on its arms transfers
Compare
Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and DevelopmentThe Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development, a diplomatic initiative aimed at addressing the interrelations between armed violence and development, was signed in 2006124 by the Netherlands.
Compare
Arms Trade TreatyThe Arms Trade Treaty has been signed and ratified125 by the Netherlands
Compare
United Nations Firearms ProtocolThe United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition has been signed and ratified126 by the Netherlands
United Nations Small Arms Programme of Action UNPoA
UNPoA CommitmentOn 21 July 2001, the Netherlands committed to a consensus decision of the United Nations to adopt, support and implement the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects127
Compare
UNPoA Implementation Monitor ScoreIn its UN small arms Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (PoAIM Phase 1), the Small Arms Survey scored the Netherlands against its commitments to the PoA, then ranked it at No. 54128 129 130 131 among 159 Member States
Compare
UNPoA National ReportingUnder the terms of its 2001 commitment to the United Nations small arms Programme of Action, the Netherlands have submitted one or more national reports132 133 on its implementation of the UNPoA
Compare
UNPoA National Point of ContactIn the Netherlands, a National Point of Contact to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated134 133
Compare
UNPoA National Coordinating BodyIn the Netherlands, a National Coordinating Body to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated134
Compare
UNPoA Civil Society Involvement and SupportIn National Reports of the Netherlands submitted to the UN from 2001 to 2010, a history of substantive cooperation with civil society in support of UNPoA activities was apparent134 135 133
UNPoA International Assistance – DonorFunds for UNPoA implementation have been donated133 by the Netherlands to other UN Member States
Compare
United Nations Small Arms RegisterAccording to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms, the Netherlands have declared136 its small arms exports in one or more annual National Reports on Arms Exports.
United Nations MembershipIn the UN List of Member States, the Netherlands have been a Member State of the United Nations since 1945137
Wassenaar ArrangementThe Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies lists138 the Netherlands as a Participating State

BackgroundCountry ProfileLink
Conflict ProfileFor a profile of conflict in the Netherlands, select the Link icon to open an external web page from the UCDP Conflict Encyclopedia at Uppsala University
Link
Global Peace IndexTo see where the Netherlands ranks, select the Link icon to open an external web page at the Global Peace Index

Short References

1.: Karp, Aaron.2018.‘Civilian Firearms Holdings, 2017.’ Estimating Global Civilian-Held Firearms Numbers.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,18 June. (Q13434)Full Citation
2.: Karp, Aaron.2007.‘Completing the Count: Civilian firearms - Annexe online.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q5)Full Citation
3.: Karp, Aaron.2007.‘Completing the Count: Civilian firearms.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q4)Full Citation
4.: Directorate-General for Home Affairs.2015.‘Firearms Ownership - Firearms in the EU.’ Flash Eurobarometer 383: Firearms in the European Union.Brussels:European Commission,19 January. (Q13506)Full Citation
5.: van Dijk, Jan, John van Kesteren and Paul Smit.2007.‘Ownership of Firearms and Handguns in Countries and Main Cities (percentages): 1989-2005 ICVS and 2005 EU ICS.’ Criminal Victimisation in International Perspective: Key findings from the 2004-2005 ICVS and EU ICS.Vienna:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime / UNODC,1 January. (Q11810)Full Citation
6.: Killias, Martin.1993.‘Gun Ownership, Suicide and Homicide: An International Perspective.’ Understanding Crime, Experiences of Crime and Crime Control - Acts of the International Conference, Rome, 18-20 Nov 1992.Rome:United Nations International Crime & Justice Research Institute (UNICRI),1 August. (Q1187)Full Citation
7.: GunPolicy.org.2016.‘Calculated Rates - Netherlands.’ Historical Population Data - USCB International Data Base.Suitland, MD:US Census Bureau Population Division,10 October. (Q4269)Full Citation
8.: Duquet, Nils and Maarten Van Alstein.2016.‘Illegal Firearm Possession in the Netherlands, 2001/03.’ Guns for Sale: The Belgian Illicit Gun Market in a European Perspective.Brussels:Flemish Peace Institute,21 March. (Q11827)Full Citation
9.: Karp, Aaron.2018.‘Military Firearms Holdings, 2017.’ Estimating Global Military-Owned Firearms Numbers.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,18 June. (Q13436)Full Citation
10.: Karp, Aaron.2018.‘Law Enforcement Firearms Holdings, 2017.’ Estimating Global Law Enforcement Firearms Numbers.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,18 June. (Q13435)Full Citation
11.: WHO.2016.‘Inter-country Comparison of Mortality for Selected Causes of Death.’ WHO Mortality Data Base.Geneva:World Health Organisation,1 December. (Q13354)Full Citation
12.: Netherlands.2016.‘Deaths: Murder and Manslaughter (Firearm), 1996-2015.’ Statistics Netherlands.Amsterdam:Statistics Netherlands,29 July. (Q12674)Full Citation
13.: Netherlands.2016.‘External Causes of Morbidity and Mortality: Firearms.’ Statistics Netherlands.Amsterdam:Statistics Netherlands,30 June. (Q12293)Full Citation
14.: UNODC.2017.‘Intentional Homicide Victims.’ Crime and Drugs Data.Vienna:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,19 May. (Q13355)Full Citation
15.: GunPolicy.org. 2016. ‘Violent Deaths in the Netherlands.’ Definition and Selection Criteria.
Sydney School of Public Health, 24 October. (G198) Full Citation
16.: Netherlands.2016.‘Deaths: Murder and Manslaughter, 1996-2015.’ Statistics Netherlands.Amsterdam:Statistics Netherlands,29 July. (Q12673)Full Citation
17.: Netherlands.2016.‘Homicides, 1996-2015.’ Statistics Netherlands.Amsterdam:Statistics Netherlands,30 June. (Q12294)Full Citation
18.: UNODC.2013.‘Homicide in 207 Countries - Netherlands.’ Global Study on Homicide 2011: Trends, Context, Data.Vienna:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,26 June. (Q6212)Full Citation
19.: Barclay, Gordon, Cynthia Tavares and Arsalaan Siddique.2001.‘Crimes Recorded by Police: Homicide.’ International Comparisons of Criminal Justice Statistics 1999.London:UK Home Office,1 May. (Q2143)Full Citation
20.: UNODC.2017.‘Intentional Homicide Victims by Sex.’ Crime and Drugs Data.Vienna:UNODC,19 May. (Q13356)Full Citation
21.: WHO.2016.‘Inter-country Comparison of Mortality for Selected Cause of Death - Gun Homicide in the Netherlands.’ European Detailed Mortality Database (DMDB).Copenhagen:World Health Organisation Regional Office for Europe,6 July. (Q6093)Full Citation
22.: UNODC.2014.‘Homicides and Gun Homicides in the Netherlands.’ Global Study on Homicide 2013: Trends, Context, Data.Vienna:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),10 April. (Q10345)Full Citation
23.: Krug, E G, K E Powell and L L Dahlberg.1998.‘Firearm-Related Deaths in the United States and 35 Other High- and Upper-Middle-Income Countries.’ International Journal of Epidemiology.Atlanta:National Centre for Injury Prevention & Control, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention / CDC,16 April. (Q1297)Full Citation
24.: Butchart, Alexander, Christopher Mikton and Etienne Krug.2014.‘Country Profile: Netherlands.’ Global Status Report on Violence Prevention 2014.Geneva:World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP),10 December. (Q9429)Full Citation
25.: Netherlands.2016.‘Suicides, 1996-2015.’ Statistics Netherlands.Amsterdam:Statistics Netherlands,30 June. (Q12296)Full Citation
26.: Jackson, Thomas.2005.‘Global Gun Deaths.’ NISAT Firearm Mortality Database 2005.Oslo:Norwegian Initiative on Small Arms Transfers,1 January. (Q12)Full Citation
27.: Krug, E G, K E Powell and L L Dahlberg.1998.‘Firearm-Related Deaths in the United States and 35 Other High- and Upper-Middle-Income Countries.’ International Journal of Epidemiology.Atlanta:National Centre for Injury Prevention & Control, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention / CDC,16 April. (Q1302)Full Citation
28.: WHO.2016.‘Inter-country Comparison of Mortality for Selected Cause of Death - Gun Suicide in the Netherlands.’ European Detailed Mortality Database (DMDB).Copenhagen:World Health Organisation Regional Office for Europe,6 July. (Q6158)Full Citation
29.: Waiselfiz, Julio Jacobo.2015.‘Number and Rate of Gun Deaths in 90 Countries (Número e taxas de mortalidade por AF segundo causa básica em 90 países do mundo).’ Violence Map: Deaths by Firearms (Mapa da Violência: Mortes Matadas por Armas de Fogo).Brasilia:Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales / Latin American Social Sciences Institute,1 January. (Q11896)Full Citation
30.: Krug, E G, K E Powell and L L Dahlberg.1998.‘Firearm-Related Deaths in the United States and 35 Other High- and Upper-Middle-Income Countries.’ International Journal of Epidemiology.Atlanta:National Centre for Injury Prevention & Control, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention / CDC,16 April. (Q1298)Full Citation
31.: WHO.2016.‘Inter-country Comparison of Mortality for Selected Cause of Death - Unintentional Gun Deaths in Netherlands.’ European Detailed Mortality Database (DMDB).Copenhagen:World Health Organisation Regional Office for Europe,6 July. (Q6196)Full Citation
32.: Krug, E G, K E Powell and L L Dahlberg.1998.‘Firearm-Related Deaths in the United States and 35 Other High- and Upper-Middle-Income Countries.’ International Journal of Epidemiology.Atlanta:National Centre for Injury Prevention & Control, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention / CDC,16 April. (Q1299)Full Citation
33.: WHO.2014.‘Inter-country Comparison of Mortality for Selected Cause of Death - Gun Death from Undetermined Cause in the Netherlands.’ European Detailed Mortality Database (DMDB).Copenhagen:World Health Organisation Regional Office for Europe,20 June. (Q6454)Full Citation
34.: Krug, E G, K E Powell and L L Dahlberg.1998.‘Firearm-Related Deaths in the United States and 35 Other High- and Upper-Middle-Income Countries.’ International Journal of Epidemiology.Atlanta:National Centre for Injury Prevention & Control, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention / CDC,16 April. (Q1300)Full Citation
35.: Netherlands.2010.‘National Laws, Regulations and Decrees - Production.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1707)Full Citation
36.: Netherlands.1997.‘Recognition.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2116)Full Citation
37.: Small Arms Survey.2001.‘Ranking of World's Small Arms Producers (By Sales).’ Small Arms Survey 2001: Profiling the Problem.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q103)Full Citation
38.: Netherlands.2016.‘International Transfers.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,6 May. (Q13059)Full Citation
39.: Netherlands.2010.‘National Laws, Regulations and Decrees - Export.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1710)Full Citation
40.: Netherlands.2010.‘National Laws, Regulations and Decrees - Transit.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1711)Full Citation
41.: Netherlands.1997.‘Entering and Leaving of Weapons and Ammunition of the Categories II and III - Art. 14.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2119)Full Citation
42.: Netherlands.1997.‘Transfer and Acquisition of Weapons and Ammunition of the Categories II, III and IV - Art. 31.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2126)Full Citation
43.: Netherlands.2016.‘International Transfers - Record-keeping.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,6 May. (Q13061)Full Citation
44.: European Council.1991.‘Article 11.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2414)Full Citation
45.: European Council.1991.‘Article 12.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2415)Full Citation
46.: European Council.1991.‘Article 13.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2416)Full Citation
47.: European Council.1991.‘Article 14.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2417)Full Citation
48.: European Commission.2013.‘The Need for Action at EU Level - EU Firearms Laws.’ Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament.Brussels:Europa.eu,21 October. (Q8320)Full Citation
49.: UN Register of Conventional Arms.2018.‘National Reports on Small Arms Exports and Imports - Netherlands.’ UNROCA - The Global Reported Arms Trade.New York, NY:United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,1 January. (Q13366)Full Citation
50.: United Nations.2018.‘National Customs Data on Small Arms Exports and Imports - Netherlands.’ UN Comtrade International Trade Statistics Database.New York NY:United Nations Statistics Division,1 January. (Q13443)Full Citation
51.: Marsh, Nicholas.2014.‘Database of Authorised Transfers of Small Arms and Light Weapons.’ NISAT Small Arms Trade Database.Oslo:Norwegian Initiative on Small Arms Transfers,22 December. (Q16)Full Citation
52.: Small Arms Survey.2001.‘60 Known Legal Small Arms Exporting Countries, 2001.’ Small Arms Survey 2001: Profiling the Problem.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q867)Full Citation
53.: Netherlands.2010.‘National Laws, Regulations and Decrees - Import.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1709)Full Citation
54.: Holtom, Paul and Christelle Rigual.2015.‘Importers of Small Arms Based on UN Comtrade, 2012.’ Small Arms Survey 2015: Weapons and the World.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 June. (Q11070)Full Citation
55.: Rigual, Christelle.2015.‘Annexe 4.2: Major Importers.’ Small Arms Survey 2015: Weapons and the World.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 June. (Q11078)Full Citation
56.: Holtom, Paul, Irene Pavesi and Christelle Rigual.2014.‘Importers of Small Arms Based on UN Comtrade, 2011.’ Small Arms Survey 2014: Women and Guns.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,16 June. (Q11041)Full Citation
57.: Pavesi, Irene and Christelle Rigual.2013.‘Annexes 8.2: Major Importers.’ Small Arms Survey 2013: Everyday Dangers.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,2 July. (Q8486)Full Citation
58.: Expatica (Brussels). 2004. ‘Report: 15,000 Guns Smuggled Annually.’ 22 July. (N183) Full Citation
59.: Netherlands.2016.‘Brokering.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,6 May. (Q13062)Full Citation
60.: European Council.1991.‘Article 4b.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2408)Full Citation
61.: European Commission.2013.‘The Need for Action at EU Level - EU Firearms Laws.’ Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament.Brussels:Europa.eu,21 October. (Q8319)Full Citation
62.: Holtom, Paul and Irene Pavesi.2018.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer.’ The 2018 Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies,1 August. (Q13505)Full Citation
63.: Pavesi, Irene.2016.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2016.’ Trade Update 2016: Transfers and Transparency.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,6 June. (Q12070)Full Citation
64.: Holtom, Paul, Irene Pavesi, and Christelle Rigual.2014.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2014.’ Small Arms Survey 2014: Women and Guns.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,16 June. (Q10547)Full Citation
65.: Pavesi, Irene and Christelle Rigual.2013.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2013.’ Small Arms Survey 2013: Everyday Dangers.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,2 July. (Q6871)Full Citation
66.: Lazarevic, Jasna.2012.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2012.’ Small Arms Survey 2012: Moving Targets.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,27 August. (Q6869)Full Citation
67.: Lazarevic, Jasna.2011.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2011.’ Small Arms Survey 2011: States of Security.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,6 July. (Q10549)Full Citation
68.: Lazarevic, Jasna.2010.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2010.’ Small Arms Survey 2010: Gangs, Groups and Guns.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,14 June. (Q10550)Full Citation
69.: Lazarevic, Jasna.2009.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2009.’ Small Arms Survey 2009: Shadows of War.Cambridge:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,9 July. (Q10551)Full Citation
70.: Close, Helen and Chris Stevenson.2008.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2008.’ Small Arms Survey 2008: Risk and Resilience.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,14 July. (Q10552)Full Citation
71.: Glatz, Anne-Kathrin and Lora Lumpe.2007.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2007.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,27 August. (Q10553)Full Citation
72.: Khakee, Anna, Pablo Dreyfus and Anne-Kathrin Glatz.2006.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2006.’ Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business.Oxford:Oxford University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 July. (Q10554)Full Citation
73.: Khakee, Anna.2005.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2005.’ Small Arms Survey 2005: Weapons at War.Oxford:Oxford University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,11 July. (Q10555)Full Citation
74.: Khakee, Anna.2004.‘Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer 2004.’ Small Arms Survey 2004: Rights at Risk.Oxford:Oxford University Press and the Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 July. (Q10556)Full Citation
75.: Newton, George D and Franklin E Zimring.1969.‘Firearm Licensing: Permissive v Restrictive.’ Firearms & Violence in American Life: A staff report submitted to the National Commission on the Causes and Prevention of Violence.Washington, DC:US Government Printing Office,1 January. (Q22)Full Citation
76.: Netherlands.2010.‘National Laws, Regulations and Decrees.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1708)Full Citation
77.: Netherlands.1997.‘Wording of the Act.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2112)Full Citation
78.: European Council.1991.‘European Weapons Directive.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2403)Full Citation
79.: European Council.1991.‘Article 18.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2418)Full Citation
80.: European Commission.2013.‘The Need for Action at EU Level - EU Firearms Laws.’ Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament.Brussels:Europa.eu,21 October. (Q8315)Full Citation
81.: Netherlands.1997.‘Commissioner of Police.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2117)Full Citation
82.: Sherman, Amy and Tom Ginsburg.2014.‘Gun Rights in National Constitutions.’ Marco Rubio Says Second Amendment Is Unique in Speech to NRA.Miami, FL:Miami Herald (PolitiFact Florida),29 April. (Q8507)Full Citation
83.: Zachary Elkins, Tom Ginsburg and James Melton. 2013. ‘U.S. Gun Rights Truly Are American Exceptionalism.’ Bloomberg (USA). 7 March. (N422) Full Citation
84.: Netherlands.1997.‘Wording of the Act.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q4151)Full Citation
85.: Netherlands.1997.‘Possessing and Carrying Weapons and Ammunition of the Categories II, III and IV - Art. 26.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2121)Full Citation
86.: Netherlands.1997.‘Wording of the Act.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2113)Full Citation
87.: Netherlands.1997.‘Categories of Ammunition.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2114)Full Citation
88.: European Council.1991.‘Article 6.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2410)Full Citation
89.: European Council.1991.‘Annex 1.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2419)Full Citation
90.: Netherlands.1997.‘Possessing and Carrying Weapons and Ammunition of the Categories II, III and IV - Art. 27.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2123)Full Citation
91.: European Council.1991.‘Article 7.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2411)Full Citation
92.: European Council.1991.‘Article 8.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2412)Full Citation
93.: Netherlands.1997.‘Possessing and Carrying Weapons and Ammunition of the Categories II, III and IV - Art. 28.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2124)Full Citation
94.: European Council.1991.‘Article 4a.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2407)Full Citation
95.: Netherlands.1997.‘Exemptions - Collection.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2115)Full Citation
96.: European Council.1991.‘Article 5.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2409)Full Citation
97.: European Council.1991.‘Article 10.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2413)Full Citation
98.: Netherlands.1997.‘Provisions Concerning the Implementation of the Act - Art. 42.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2128)Full Citation
99.: Netherlands.2010.‘Marking, Record Keeping and Tracing - Record Keeping.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q4568)Full Citation
100.: Netherlands.2016.‘Record Keeping.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,6 May. (Q13064)Full Citation
101.: European Council.1991.‘Article 4.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2406)Full Citation
102.: Netherlands.2016.‘Stockpile Management.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,6 May. (Q13063)Full Citation
103.: Netherlands.1997.‘Exceptional Grounds for Refusal (Mandatory).’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2118)Full Citation
104.: European Council.1991.‘Article 4.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2405)Full Citation
105.: Netherlands.2010.‘Stockpile Management and Security.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1713)Full Citation
106.: Netherlands.1997.‘Transport of Weapons and Ammunition of the Categories II and III - Art. 22.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.TheHague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2120)Full Citation
107.: Netherlands.1997.‘Safety Requirements - Art. 33.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2127)Full Citation
108.: Netherlands.2010.‘National Laws, Regulations and Decrees - Marking.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1712)Full Citation
109.: Netherlands.2010.‘Marking.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q4567)Full Citation
110.: European Council.1991.‘Article 4.’ Council Directive of 18 June 1991 on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons (91/477/EEC) [current to 2008 amendments].Brussels:Council of the European Communities,18 June. (Q2404)Full Citation
111.: Netherlands.2010.‘Marking, Record Keeping and Tracing - Tracing.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q4569)Full Citation
112.: Karp, Aaron, Nicholas Marsh and Giorgio Ravagli.2015.‘Summary of Reported International Requests for Tracing of Firearms, 2010-2013.’ UNODC Study on Firearms 2015.Vienna:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),3 July. (Q10546)Full Citation
113.: Georg Schreuder Hes. 2011. ‘Gun Laws in The Netherlands.’ Radio Netherlands. 9 April. (N214) Full Citation
114.: GunPolicy.org. 2015. ‘Penalty for Unlawful Firearm Possession.’ Definition and Selection Criteria.
Sydney School of Public Health, 22 January. (G93) Full Citation
115.: Netherlands.1997.‘Punishment Provisions - Art. 55.’ Weapons and Ammunition Act (Wet Wapens en Munitie) 1997.The Hague:Ministry of Justice,10 July. (Q2129)Full Citation
116.: European Commission.2014.‘Sanctions.’ Study to Support an Impact Assessment on Options for Combatting Illicit Firearms Trafficking in the European Union.Luxembourg:Centre for Strategy & Evaluation Services,1 July. (Q12307)Full Citation
117.: Graeme Kidd. 2015. ‘Police Seize 24,000 Weapons, Ammunition Since 2013.’ NL Times. 5 October. (N576) Full Citation
118.: Karp, Aaron.2007.‘Completing the Count: Civilian firearms.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q11758)Full Citation
119.: Karp, Aaron.2008.‘A Semi-automatic Process?: Identifying and destroying military surplus.’ Small Arms Survey 2008: Risk and Resilience.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,14 July. (Q1993)Full Citation
120.: Netherlands.2010.‘Collection and Disposal.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1714)Full Citation
121.: European Parliament.2007.‘Roll-call Vote: EU Firearms Directive.’ Legislative Resolution on Control of the Acquisition and Possession of Weapons.Brussels:VoteWatch.eu,29 November. (Q1346)Full Citation
122.: EU Parliament.2007.‘Draft Legislative Resolution on the EU Parliament Firearms Directive 2007.’ Report on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Directive 91/477/EEC on control of the acquisition and possession of weapons.Brussels:European Parliament,12 July. (Q1970)Full Citation
123.: Saferworld.2010.‘EU Arms Transfer Reporting Database.’ Saferworld European Union Arms Transfer Reporting Database.London:Saferworld,9 December. (Q3364)Full Citation
124.: GDAV.2006.‘Geneva Declaration.’ Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development.Geneva:Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development Secretariat,7 June. (Q7162)Full Citation
125.: UNODA.2013.‘Towards Entry Into Force.’ Arms Trade Treaty.New York, NY:United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,2 April. (Q7226)Full Citation
126.: UNGA.2001.‘United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition.’ UN General Assembly Resolution 55/255.New York, NY:UN General Assembly,31 May. (Q17)Full Citation
127.: UNGA.2001.‘Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects.’ United Nations General Assembly.New York, NY:UN General Assembly,20 July. (Q18)Full Citation
128.: Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘Findings - Table 3: Reporting States by Rank and Score.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 August. (Q8752)Full Citation
129.: Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘What do the PoAIM Scores Represent? How Should the PoAIM Scores Be Interpreted?.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 August. (Q8753)Full Citation
130.: Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘Point Allocation System.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 August. (Q8754)Full Citation
131.: Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘Introduction.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva,1 August. (Q8755)Full Citation
132.: Cattaneo, Silvia and Sarah Parker.2008.‘Reporting, NPCs and NCAs, 2002 to 2008.’ Implementing the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons: Analysis of the National Reports submitted by States from 2002 to 2008.Geneva:United Nations Development Programme,1 November. (Q20)Full Citation
133.: UNODA.2018.‘PoA-ISS Country Profiles.’ UN small arms Programme of Action (UNPoA) - Implementation Support System.New York, NY:United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs,23 July. (Q1309)Full Citation
134.: IANSA.2006.‘Reviewing Action on Small Arms 2006: Assessing the first five years of the UN Programme of Action.’ Biting the Bullet 'Red Book' 2006.New York, NY:International Action Network on Small Arms and the Biting the Bullet project,26 June. (Q166)Full Citation
135.: Netherlands.2010.‘Cooperation with Civil Society and NGOs.’ National Report of the Netherlands on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York, NY:Permanent Mission of the Netherlands to the United Nations,1 January. (Q1716)Full Citation
136.: UNODA.2011.‘National Reports on Small Arms Exports.’ United Nations Register of Conventional Arms - The Global Reported Arms Trade.New York, NY:United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,21 October. (Q14)Full Citation
137.: UN.2013.‘Member States of the United Nations.’ UN.org Web Site.New York, NY:United Nations General Assembly,7 April. (Q290)Full Citation
138.: Wassenaar Arrangement.1996.‘Introduction: Participating States.’ Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies.Vienna:Wassenaar Secretariat,12 July. (Q19)Full Citation

Search, View and Navigation

Find Gun Policy Facts

Go To ..

Netherlands — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law

CompareNumber of Privately Owned Firearms

CompareRate of Civilian Firearm Possession per 100 Population

CompareNumber of Privately Owned Firearms - World Ranking

CompareRate of Privately Owned Firearms per 100 Population - World Ranking

CompareProportion of Adults Living in a Home With a Gun

CompareProportion of Households with Firearms

CompareProportion of Households with Rifles

CompareProportion of Households with Shotguns

CompareProportion of Households with Handguns

CompareNumber of Registered Firearms

CompareRate of Registered Firearms per 100 Population

CompareEstimated Number of Illicit Firearms

CompareEstimated Rate of Illicit Firearms per 100 Population

CompareNumber of Military Firearms

CompareNumber of Law Enforcement Firearms

CompareRate of All Gun Deaths per 100,000 People

CompareTotal Number of Male Gun Deaths

CompareTotal Number of Female Gun Deaths

CompareRate of Homicide per 100,000 People (any method)

CompareMale Homicide Victims (any method)

CompareFemale Homicide Victims (any method)

CompareRate of Gun Homicide per 100,000 People

CompareProportion of Homicides Committed With a Gun

CompareMale Gun Homicide Victims

CompareFemale Gun Homicide Victims

CompareRate of Handgun Homicide per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Long Gun Homicide per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Gun Homicide (Other) per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Suicide per 100,000 People (any method)

CompareMale Suicide Victims (any method)

CompareFemale Suicide Victims (any method)

CompareRate of Gun Suicide per 100,000 People

CompareMale Gun Suicide Victims

CompareFemale Gun Suicide Victims

CompareRate of Handgun Suicide per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Long Gun Suicide per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Gun Suicide (Other) per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Unintentional Gun Death per 100,000 People

CompareUnintentional Male Gun Deaths

CompareUnintentional Female Gun Deaths

CompareRate of Unintentional Handgun Death per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Unintentional Long Gun Death per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Unintentional Gun Death (Other) per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

CompareMale Gun Deaths from Undetermined Cause

CompareFemale Gun Deaths from Undetermined Cause

CompareRate of Handgun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Long Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

CompareRate of Gun Death (Other) from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

CompareFirearm Exports (Number)

CompareSmall Arms Exports (US$) - Customs

CompareSmall Arms Exports - World Ranking

CompareFirearm Imports (Number)

CompareSmall Arms Imports (US$) - Customs

CompareRegulation of Automatic Weapons

CompareRegulation of Semiautomatic Assault Weapons

CompareRegulation of Handguns

CompareLaw Regulates Long Guns

CompareGenuine Reason Required for Firearm Possession

CompareMinimum Age for Firearm Possession

CompareGun Owner Background Checks

CompareReference Required for Firearm Licence

CompareDomestic Violence and Firearms

CompareFirearm Safety Training

CompareGun Owner Licensing Period

CompareLimit on Number of Guns

CompareLimit on Quantity, Type of Ammunition

CompareCivilian Gun Registration

CompareGun Dealer Record Keeping

CompareState-Owned Firearm Records

CompareRegulation of Private Gun Sales

CompareRegulation of Dealer Gun Sales

CompareWaiting Period for Gun Possession

CompareRegulation of Gun Shows

CompareFirearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Private

CompareFirearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Dealer

Compare
Number of Privately Owned Firearms

Compare
Rate of Civilian Firearm Possession per 100 Population

Compare
Number of Privately Owned Firearms - World Ranking

Compare
Rate of Privately Owned Firearms per 100 Population - World Ranking

Compare
Proportion of Adults Living in a Home With a Gun

Compare
Proportion of Households with Firearms

Compare
Proportion of Households with Rifles

Compare
Proportion of Households with Shotguns

Compare
Proportion of Households with Handguns

Compare
Number of Registered Firearms

Compare
Rate of Registered Firearms per 100 Population

Compare
Estimated Number of Illicit Firearms

Compare
Estimated Rate of Illicit Firearms per 100 Population

Compare
Number of Military Firearms

Compare
Number of Law Enforcement Firearms

Compare
Rate of All Gun Deaths per 100,000 People

Compare
Total Number of Male Gun Deaths

Compare
Total Number of Female Gun Deaths

Compare
Rate of Homicide per 100,000 People (any method)

Compare
Male Homicide Victims (any method)

Compare
Female Homicide Victims (any method)

Compare
Rate of Gun Homicide per 100,000 People

Compare
Proportion of Homicides Committed With a Gun

Compare
Male Gun Homicide Victims

Compare
Female Gun Homicide Victims

Compare
Rate of Handgun Homicide per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Long Gun Homicide per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Gun Homicide (Other) per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Suicide per 100,000 People (any method)

Compare
Male Suicide Victims (any method)

Compare
Female Suicide Victims (any method)

Compare
Rate of Gun Suicide per 100,000 People

Compare
Male Gun Suicide Victims

Compare
Female Gun Suicide Victims

Compare
Rate of Handgun Suicide per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Long Gun Suicide per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Gun Suicide (Other) per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Unintentional Gun Death per 100,000 People

Compare
Unintentional Male Gun Deaths

Compare
Unintentional Female Gun Deaths

Compare
Rate of Unintentional Handgun Death per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Unintentional Long Gun Death per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Unintentional Gun Death (Other) per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

Compare
Male Gun Deaths from Undetermined Cause

Compare
Female Gun Deaths from Undetermined Cause

Compare
Rate of Handgun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Long Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

Compare
Rate of Gun Death (Other) from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

Compare
Firearm Exports (Number)

Compare
Small Arms Exports (US$) - Customs

Compare
Small Arms Exports - World Ranking

Compare
Firearm Imports (Number)

Compare
Small Arms Imports (US$) - Customs

Compare
Regulation of Automatic Weapons

Compare
Regulation of Semiautomatic Assault Weapons

Compare
Regulation of Handguns

Compare
Law Regulates Long Guns

Compare
Genuine Reason Required for Firearm Possession

Compare
Minimum Age for Firearm Possession

Compare
Gun Owner Background Checks

Compare
Reference Required for Firearm Licence

Compare
Domestic Violence and Firearms

Compare
Firearm Safety Training

Compare
Gun Owner Licensing Period

Compare
Limit on Number of Guns

Compare
Limit on Quantity, Type of Ammunition

Compare
Civilian Gun Registration

Compare
Gun Dealer Record Keeping

Compare
State-Owned Firearm Records

Compare
Regulation of Private Gun Sales

Compare
Regulation of Dealer Gun Sales

Compare
Waiting Period for Gun Possession

Compare
Regulation of Gun Shows

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Private

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Dealer

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Government

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Transport Regulations

Compare
Firearm Marking

Compare
Firearm Tracing