Netherlands
Practice Relating to Rule 128. Release and Return of Persons Deprived of Their Liberty
Section C. Exchange of prisoners
The Military Handbook (1995) of the Netherlands provides: “Exchange of prisoners may take place during the hostilities in accordance with agreements concluded between the Parties.”
The Military Manual (2005) of the Netherlands states that “[i]f a protecting power is appointed during an armed conflict … it may play a role in the treatment of prisoners of war. Examples might include the exchange of prisoners of war”.
The manual also states:
In addition to possible action as a protecting power and to gathering information on prisoners of war, the ICRC fulfils the following tasks:
…
- mediation in the exchange of prisoners (of war or otherwise).