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Netherlands

Netherlands

According to the Digital Decade report 2026, The Netherlands is at 83.61% of individuals aged 16-74 with at least basic digital skills, which is above the EU average of 60.40%.  

2026 Digital Decade Eurobarometer report for The Netherlands reflects Dutch citizens' attitudes, priorities, and concerns regarding digital rights, AI, and the EU's digital policy goals based on research conducted between February and March 2026.

The Netherlands is a leader in digitalisation, supported by excellent connectivity, a strong research base and strengths in high-tech sectors (i.e. semiconductors and quantum technologies).  

There is no official National Digital skills Coalition in The Netherlands. 

The Dutch government has adopted several state strategies and national initiatives to promote digitalization, including the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2022-2028, the Action Plan for Green and Digital Jobs, the Digital Economy Strategy, and the the I-strategie Rijk 2021 – 2025 (State I-strategy). Additionally, the Netherlands' recovery and resilience plan supports the digital transition through investments in advanced technologies like quantum technology and artificial intelligence. Funding is also allocated for ICT infrastructure, smart mobility, digitalization of education and health, and the development of digital skills.  

Quantum Delta NL, with the assistance of 264 million EUR from the Recovery and Resilience Fund, establishes a fully functional national ecosystem for excellence in quantum innovation, allowing highly skilled professionals to deliver quantum computers, quantum networks, and quantum sensors to market. Furthermore, Smart Industry program was founded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs to accelerate the digitization of the manufacturing industry. 

At least basic digital skills (% of individuals aged 16-74)
EU average score: 60.4
Netherlands score: 83.61
60.4 EU average score
83.61 Country score
2040
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The Netherlands ranks 1st out of the 27 EU Member States in the DESI dashboard for the Digital Decade for the 'At least basic digital skills' indicator, with 83.61% of its population possessing at least basic digital skills.

The latest trends in digital skills in the Netherlands