The Government of the Netherlands recently announced the launch of its own source code hosting platform, code.overheid.nl, where open source software for government agencies will be published and collaboratively developed. This initiative is positioned as a European alternative to popular platforms like GitHub and GitLab, with a focus on ensuring digital sovereignty. The platform Forgejo serves as the foundation for this project.
The launch of this project was spearheaded by the Open Source Program Office, established within the Ministry of Interior and Royal Affairs of the Netherlands. They advocate for the philosophy of “Open, unless otherwise stated” (“Open, tenzij”), whereby software code developed for government use should be made public whenever possible. This approach aims to enhance software quality, promote transparency, and facilitate collaboration among government agencies, citizens, and businesses.
Currently, the open source hosting platform is in its pilot phase and is accessible to a select group of organizations. Interested developers and organizations can participate in the testing phase by contacting the project coordinator. Over the next year, various public services in the Netherlands, including ministries and municipalities, are expected to join the project.
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