IHL DATABASE Customary IHL
all IHL databases
Related Rule
Netherlands
Practice Relating to Rule 128. Release and Return of Persons Deprived of Their Liberty
Section C. Exchange of prisoners
III. Military Manuals
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.” 
Netherlands, Handboek Militair, Ministerie van Defensie, 1995, p. 7-42.
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”. 
Netherlands, Humanitair Oorlogsrecht: Handleiding, Voorschift No. 27-412, Koninklijke Landmacht, Militair Juridische Dienst, 2005, § 0714.
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). 
Netherlands, Humanitair Oorlogsrecht: Handleiding, Voorschift No. 27-412, Koninklijke Landmacht, Militair Juridische Dienst, 2005, § 0243.