The House of the Dutch Provinces

In 2000, the twelve Dutch provinces and the Association of Dutch Provinces (IPO) established the House of the Dutch Provinces in Brussels. Strong positioning and an effective representation in Brussels require a proactive approach and cooperation between the provinces. The House of the Dutch Provinces is the joint front office of the provinces and the IPO in Brussels. Its main role consists of representing the joint interests of the provinces by liaising, informing and identifying.

Our joint priorities

The administrative agendas of the twelve provinces and the IPO, as well as current European policy developments, are leading for the joint prioritization of the provinces and thus for the House. For the joint priorities, provinces usually have direct responsibility for the implementation of European policy and certain European programmes. The number of initiatives, the subjects, the complexity of the European policy process and European decision-making require selection and prioritization.

Who are we?

At the House of Dutch Provinces, every province is represented by one or more representatives. Furthermore, we have a small staff to support the House. Next to this, the House hosts five partner organisations as well. They are connected to our work.

European Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions is consulted by the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council in areas that affect local or regional policy making. It is composed of 329 local and regional representatives, appointed by the Council for four years.