The digitized portion of the war archive will be accessible in a limited manner. Minister Bruins has implemented a temporary provision.
Last month, the Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) warned against making the archive available online, citing potential privacy violations of living individuals. In collaboration with the AP, a temporary measure has been established, allowing researchers and relatives to access the digital archive within the study room of the National Archives in The Hague.
Access outside the study room is prohibited, and those without a valid reason are denied permission. This is expected to begin in the first quarter of next year.
Bruins emphasized the archive’s immeasurable value for historical research, preserving the memory of World War II, and assisting relatives seeking information. Originally, over 300,000 files were set to be publicly accessible online from January 2, detailing Dutch individuals who collaborated or were suspected of collaborating with occupiers during World War II.
Some relatives were concerned about exposing family stories, while others feared reopening old wounds. Following discussions with the AP, the temporary provision was created.
The study room’s capacity is limited, and individuals wishing to view the data must seek prior approval, with copying prohibited. These same conditions apply to the paper archive.
Bruins stated, “This solution is far from ideal, but I find it important to enhance access for victims’ relatives and researchers.”
Source: NOS