Who we are
How it started
The Netherlands Refugee Foundation was founded on the initiative of two World War II resistance figures: Cees Brouwer and Gerrit Jan van Heuven Goedhart. From 1956 onwards, Brouwer became the driving force behind numerous fundraising campaigns to support refugees. He worked closely with Gerrit Jan van Heuven Goedhart, who served as the first United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The two men had known each other since their days in the resistance against the Nazi occupiers in World War II.
The early years
Cees Brouwer devoted his life to fight injustice and help refugees. He used his broad extensive network to raise money. From 1956 onwards this happened via the bank account Giro 999, which since has become a household name in the Netherlands. With his unwavering perseverance Cees managed to organise the very first nationwide fundraising campaign in 1966, broadcasted live on television. Many more campaigns would follow.
The ad hoc nature of the fundraising efforts disappeared in 1976 with the establishment of Stichting Vluchtelingenhulp (the Aid for Refugees Foundation). In 1981 the organisation was rebranded to Stichting Vluchteling (The Netherlands Refugee Foundation).
Our donors
Your support makes a difference when it matters most
The Netherlands Refugee Foundation is fiercely independent, relying on the generosity of individual donors. Without your support, our work would not be possible. Your donations enable us to respond swiftly to new crises, find innovative solutions, and stand up for the rights of refugees.
Will you stand with refugees worldwide and support our work today?
Supervisory Board
Good governance and rigorous scrutiny
Good governance and effective oversight are essential to maintaining the quality of our humanitarian work. That is why we have clear rules and an active Supervisory Board.
The Supervisory Board consists of six members. It appoints the Director and oversees the organisation’s management. It also helps shape the organisation’s strategic direction and provides advice and guidance.
Supervisory Board members receive no remuneration, apart from reimbursement of travel and other necessary expenses. They are appointed for a four-year term, which may be renewed once.
Regulations and statutes
Our partners
Stronger together
Together with our local and international partners, we deliver effective humanitarian relief and develop solutions in the world’s most complex emergencies.
Management team
The Management Team is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organisation and the day-to-day operations. The team consists of the Director and four managers: Head of Programs & Policy, Head of Internal Operations, Head of Communications, and Head of Fundraising.
Code of Conduct
Our Code of Conduct describes our principles and rules of behaviour that guide the decisions, operations and ways of working of the Netherlands Refugee Foundation, all it’s employees and of everyone associated with us, regardless of location.
Employees
Staff
Our staff are the driving force behind the work of the Netherlands Refugee Foundation. At the end of 2025, our team consisted of 49 employees, working in four teams.
- Team Internal Operations
- Team Programs
- Team Fundraising
- Team Communication