The approach to targeted violence in the Netherlands and Sweden

• In Event: WG Organized Crime and Criminal Networks Panel 5. Organized crime: organizational structure & violence

Abstract

Since 2023, the number of attacks with explosives has grown considerably in the Netherlands, causing a lot of concern. The Netherlands is not the only country facing this issue; also in Sweden there has been an increase in firearm-related homicides and incidents involving explosives in the recent years. In both countries, the attacks cause a lot of damage while they also instill fear amongst civilians. The present study aims to examine the approach to these forms of targeted violence in both countries, with a focus on Amsterdam and Stockholm. More specifically, the project examines differences and similarities in (1) the phenomenon and (2) prevention strategies. First, we will conduct a quantitative analysis of data on the use of explosives and targeted shootings of the last five years to shed light on the extent of the problem. Next, we will conduct interviews with professionals who have insight into the approach to targeted violence (either from a practical or policy perspective) to give insight in the phenomena and the difficulties and opportunities in the approach. Through this exploratory, comparative study, we provide insights into the targeted violence issue in the Netherlands and Sweden and shed light on challenges faced by law enforcement officers and provide recommendations for policy and practice.

Authors

• Nathalie Berger, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

• Edward Kleemans, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

• Elanie Rodermond, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam