The cost of organizing the NATO summit in The Hague this June has soared to 183.4 million euros, nearly double the initial estimate of 95 million euros made last year. The increased cost is mainly driven by heightened security demands, inflation, and the logistical requirements of hosting world leaders and thousands of delegates, Omroep West and NOS report.
The updated figure was disclosed in the Dutch government’s spring budget report, which notes that the total expenses are still considered provisional. According to the report, the sharp rise stems from “necessary security measures,” which could not be accurately estimated in earlier planning stages.
Four Dutch ministries are jointly responsible for funding the event. The Ministry of Justice and Security is contributing the largest share, at 81.7 million euros. The Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations is providing 53 million euros, the Ministry of Defense 42.6 million euros, and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management 6.1 million euros.
The previous cost estimate of 95 million euros was based on the 2014 Nuclear Security Summit, which was also held in The Hague. However, officials now say that security requirements have grown significantly due to increased threats facing Western countries and their leaders. Additionally, more guests will require individual protection this year.
“Because of the increased dangers and broader participation, the security this time will be much heavier than it was in 2014,” the budget document states. The added complexity includes the need for new equipment, more personnel—whose wages have risen due to inflation and staffing shortages—and additional programming such as a newly introduced session on the defense industry.
The summit, scheduled for June 24 and 25, will take place at the World Forum convention center on Johan de Wittlaan. The event is expected to bring together 45 world leaders, about 6,000 delegation members, and approximately 2,000 journalists. The scale of the gathering requires extensive accommodations and infrastructure, not only for the attendees but also for the thousands of police officers and security personnel deployed to protect them.
The scale of the summit is also affecting the surrounding region. Several public events in The Hague have been canceled, and some flights are expected to be suspended during the summit. One of the most significant impacts is the long-term closure of Johan de Wittlaan, a major four-lane road and vital traffic artery for local residents.
The road was closed earlier this week and will remain inaccessible for four months. It will be repurposed as a secure access route to the summit venue. Temporary structures will be installed, and the city is removing trees and lampposts along the street to make space.
The closure affects thousands of vehicles that use the road daily to enter or leave the city. The Dutch government is still developing a compensation program for residents and businesses impacted by the summit’s disruption. According to Omroep West, this plan will include a support desk to process damage claims related to the event.