‘A New Sheriff in Town?’ A Legal Comparative Analysis of the Administrative Approach to Fighting Organized Crime in the Netherlands and Germany

In recent years, the Netherlands have become a central hub for organized crime in Europe. Drug trafficking through the port of Rotterdam and into the large market of neighboring Germany is flourishing. In the fight against organized crime, Dutch authorities over the years have strongly relied on an administrative approach with mayors as critical stakeholders. Despite the harsh critique of Dutch mayors taking the role of sheriffs, German law enforcement agencies increasingly implement similar strategies in their fight against organized crime. This comparative study analyzes some of the main differences and challenges concerning the administrative approach in both legal systems. It shows that strict data protection regulations, a formalistic approach to crime fighting, and the traditional role of the mayor pose high hurdles to a successful implementation in Germany. The comparative perspective provides insights into how differences in legal cultures can shape crime policies.