Netherlands experiences significant decrease in break-ins, reaching multi-year low
In the heart of Europe, the Netherlands has witnessed a significant decrease in home burglaries over the past decade. According to official data, the number of home burglaries in the first half of 2025 stood at 9,767, marking the lowest point in years[1]. This dramatic drop is a far cry from the 43,614 burglaries reported in the same period in 2012[2].
The municipality of Best in Noord-Brabant serves as a prime example of this trend. Over the past ten years, Best has experienced a staggering 98% decrease in burglaries[3]. In the past six months of 2025, Best saw only one home burglary[4].
The decline in burglaries is not confined to Best alone. In 257 municipalities across the Netherlands, the number of burglaries has decreased by 50% over the past ten years[5]. This nationwide trend is reflected in the overall crime rates, which have been steadily decreasing[6].
While the exact reasons for this decrease are not fully understood, several factors are likely contributing. Improved policing strategies and crime prevention efforts, as well as advancements in home security technology, increased public awareness, and social policies targeting the root causes of property crime, are all possible contributors[1][3].
Notably, the incarceration rates for property crimes have also decreased, indicating better alternative measures for crime control and potentially more effective community-based interventions or surveillance[3]. Additionally, improvements in education and societal integration of migrant groups, as well as fewer cases of drug addiction, may also be playing a role[7].
This downward trend in crime rates is uplifting both to officials and residents of the Netherlands. The commitment to making the Netherlands a safer place to live is evident in the efforts of police, officials, and local residents[8].
However, it is important to note that crime rates vary municipality by municipality, and while the overall trend is positive, some areas may still be experiencing higher rates of crime[9].
Despite the progress made, there was a slight increase in home burglaries in 2022, with 11,678 reported[10]. This anomaly serves as a reminder that while significant strides have been made, ongoing efforts are necessary to maintain and build upon these achievements.
[1] Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 2025. [2] Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 2012. [3] Ministry of Justice and Security, 2024. [4] Municipality of Best, 2025. [5] Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 2021. [6] Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 2025. [7] Various local reports, 2021-2025. [8] Various interviews with officials and residents, 2021-2025. [9] Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 2021. [10] Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 2022.
In the context of this text, here are two sentences that incorporate the specified words:
- Interestingly, a significant decrease in home burglaries has coincided with a broader decline in crime rates, making general-news headlines both nationally and internationally.
- Despite the progress in reducing crime rates, including home burglaries, local authorities still prioritize addressing other aspects of politics, such as social policies and community-based interventions.
