Focus on compensation for veterans
This focus investigation examines the Ministry of Defence’s Full Compensation Regulation (RVS). The RVS entitles veterans to one-off compensation for residual damage subject to certain conditions.
Veterans with PTSD complaints who can no longer work fulltime and who have already applied for other benefits, pensions and services, for example, can receive compensation under the RVS. The Ministry of Defence provided approximately €215 million in compensation under the RVS between 2015 and 2023.
Military personnel jeopardise their health when deployed on national and international peacekeeping and security missions. They are exposed to danger and risk physical and psychological harm. Some veterans continue to suffer the consequences of physical and/or psychological harm after they leave the armed forces.
Why are we carrying out this investigation?
The Ombudsman for Veterans concluded in 2021 that the Ministry of Defence’s processing of compensation claims was protracted, complex and stressful for veterans. The Central Government Audit Service (ADR) came to a similar conclusion in 2022 and qualified the process as traumatic for veterans. Little had changed by 2024: the Ombudsman for Veterans was still receiving complaints about the RVS and the time taken to process applications.
What are we investigating?
We are investigating applications for RVS compensation from the perspective of veterans. We will map out the time take to process claims and analyse the factors that determine whether they are processed quickly or slowly, partly with a view to the veterans’ wellbeing. Simultaneously and in collaboration with the Court of Audit, the Ombudsman for Veterans is studying the follow-up to the recommendations made in his 2021 study.
Focus investigation
A focus investigation differs from an audit in that it is carried out in a considerably shorter period of time, looks at current events and answers specific, well-defined questions. A focus investigation culminates in a clear, concise report without opinions or recommendations.
Do you want to take part in this investigation?
The Court of Audit invites you to share any information you may have that would benefit our investigation. We appreciate all contributions, knowledge and experience you may care to share with us on this topic. Simply send an email to bijdrage@rekenkamer.nl.
We read all emails carefully and treat them in confidence. However, we are not able to reply to every contribution we receive.