dreigingsniveaus

Dreigingsniveaus, or threat levels, are standardized scales used by governments and organizations to categorize the level of risk to public safety, national security, or critical infrastructure. They provide a concise, publicly communicated assessment of overall risk.

They serve to align risk assessment with decision making; by defining levels, agencies can coordinate actions, such as surveillance, security checks, border controls, public alerts, and preparation of emergency services, and inform the public and private sectors.

Levels are typically arranged from low to high, with criteria including probability (likelihood) of a threat arising, potential impact (casualties, disruption), and timeframe. Some systems distinguish likelihood and impact in each level; others combine them into overall risk.

Implementation varies by country or organization; in a given level, security posture increases, resources can be reallocated, and specific measures are triggered. Public communication policies differ: some emphasize transparency, others limit details to avoid alarm.

In the Netherlands, the term dreigingsniveau is used by the National Coordinator for Security and Counter Terrorism (NCTV) to convey the national threat level, guiding measures among government bodies, security services, and critical infrastructure operators. The exact descriptions and thresholds have evolved with intelligence assessments and policy updates.

Criticism or challenges include public confusion, over- or under-reaction, and the need for clear, justified criteria. Proponents argue that structured levels improve coordination and resilience.