Samenvatting

This contribution deals with the punitive aspects of the Dutch ‘Educational Measure Behaviour and traffic’ rehabilitation course (EMG), thereby using the criminal charge concept (article 6 ECHR) and the alcohol interlock case law as indicators for the level of punitivity. As of 2009, Dutch drivers whom (repeatedly) commit traffic violations may be subjected to an EMG. Failing this course can cause a driver to have his or her driving licence suspended. The Dutch Driving Test Organization (CBR) lacks the possibility to take any individual circumstances into account. The question then arises as to whether the EMG may have a disproportionate impact in certain cases. It is argued that the imposition of the EMG predominantly qualifies as a criminal charge, requiring an extension of the current regime of legal protection. It is furthermore argued that the dominant position of the police officer who makes an EMG report should be reconsidered.