Naming coercive control, and where to get help

If you are in immediate danger in the Netherlands or elsewhere in the European Union, call 112. If someone may monitor this device, use a safer device if possible. The Quick exit button changes the page, but it does not erase browser history, downloads or network records.

What coercive control can look like

Coercive control describes a repeated pattern used to restrict another person's freedom. It may include isolation, monitoring a phone or movements, controlling money, setting one-sided rules, humiliation, intimidation or threats. No single item proves abuse, and a person does not need to match every item before asking for advice. This article uses that England and Wales guidance only for the behavioural description; its legal framework does not apply in the Netherlands.

Start with confidential advice

You can ask Veilig Thuis for advice without first making a formal report. Its advice service is free, anonymous and without obligation, and you do not need a complete account or certainty about what is happening. The 0800-2000 phone line is available day and night; use the Veilig Thuis website for current chat availability.

If you contact the police

For non-emergency police contact in the Netherlands, call 0900-8844. A police notification, or melding, and a criminal complaint, or aangifte, are different steps. Police state that an aangifte cannot later be withdrawn and starts the criminal-investigation process. A melding usually does not start an investigation, but the information may remain relevant if further reports are received. Ask the police which route fits; this article cannot decide that for an individual case.

Preserve information only when it is safe

If storing information will not increase the danger, keep written or online threats rather than deleting them. If an injury requires care, police guidance says it can be documented and a medical statement can be requested from the doctor or hospital. Do not keep evidence on a device, account or shared storage that the other person can access.

A temporary domestic exclusion order

In a threatening domestic situation, Dutch authorities may consider a 10-day temporary domestic exclusion order even when no offence has yet been established. A mayor or assistant public prosecutor decides whether to impose it, and the mayor may extend it to a maximum of 4 weeks. During the order, the person subject to it may not enter the home or contact the partner or children. This is an official decision after assessment, not a remedy an article can promise.