All-encompassing musical world tour

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All-encompassing musical world tour

‘Contemporary composers use the same 12 notes that are prevalent throughout musical history, but you hear the sound of today. The echo of what is going on in today’s society.’

From miniatures to masterpieces and from Bach to Wantenaar, the Residentie Orkest offers a variety of musicians and repertoires from different cultures and backgrounds in the 2023-2024 season. The diverse range of ingredients promises a colourful programme.

Sven Arne Tepl, General and Artistic Director of the Residentie Orkest, would love to take his audience on a musical exploration of different cultures. Diversity and versatility are therefore at the centre of the programming. ‘We want to surprise and inspire our audiences time and time again, both with a large and innovative repertoire, and with guest soloists and conductors from completely different backgrounds. We are going on a world tour in our own concert hall Amare.’

Top pianists series

New to the line-up of regular series like Symphonic Friday and the Sunday matinee is the Top pianists series. ‘The piano repertoire is vast and comprehensive; there is a lot to choose from. We are home to some great soloists, including Denis Kozhukhin playing Rachmaninov. And former artist in residence Yeol Eum Son returns to The Hague.’ New repertoire has also been considered: Ralph van Raat performs the piano concerto ‘Prophecies of Stone’ by John Luther Adams. ‘Adams does a lot of work with soundscapes and draws inspiration from the nature of Alaska in particular.’

Auerbach Festival

The orchestra will have a party with American-Russian Lera Auerbach. A birthday party, that is. To mark the 50th birthday of this pianist, composer and artist, the Residentie Orkest, the Royal Conservatoire The Hague, the Netherlands Chamber Choir and a number of other ensembles from The Hague will organise a weekend festival around this artistic jack-of-all-trades. ‘Lera is a woman of boundless energy and countless ideas. She writes books, makes beautiful bronze sculptures, goes skydiving, but with us, she plays Mozart’s Piano Concerto No 20 and conducts the Dutch premiere of her Fifth Symphony. An artist with a language that is very much her own. I am looking forward to her arrival.’

Mainstays

Chief conductor Anja Bihlmaier and regular guest conductors Jun Märkl and Richard Egarr are frequent performers at Amare this season. ‘These three regular mainstays leave their very own mark on the orchestra.’ Since opening, we have done some tweaking to the acoustics of the concert hall. ‘The orchestral sound was just a little too bare, especially in the high registers like the first violins. We did something about that and successfully, it has become one of the best halls in the country! Because the sound mixes so beautifully now, the sound image comes very close, as if you were looking directly into the score.’

Artist in residence

Czech violinist and former concertmaster of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra Josef Špaček brings the violin concertos by Dvořák, Beethoven and Berg. ‘Josef is our artist in residence this season. An exceptional musician who has a very diverse repertoire.’ Read the interview with Josef Špaček here [insert deeplink].

Into the neighbourhood

‘With projects like Portiekmuziek, where the orchestra goes into the neighbourhood, we want to connect with all residents of the city. We receive help from housing associations, healthcare institutions and other partners. They identify what people want and we respond to that.’ A great example is the series of concerts at the Juliana church in the Transvaal neighbourhood. The meeting between the musicians and local residents afterwards is sometimes more important here than the concert itself. Contact like that really does something. For both parties.’

Sounds of today

The programme also includes a number of world premieres. These include a concerto for accordion and orchestra by Dutch composer Mathilde Wagenaar and the Triple Concerto written by Finnish composer Sebastian Fagerlund for the Storioni Trio. ‘Contemporary composers use the same 12 notes that are prevalent throughout musical history, but you hear the sound of today. The echo of what is going on in today’s society.’

Tipped by Sven

‘First of all, if you have not yet been to our fantastic concert hall, please come and visit us! For example, on Friday 19 January 2024 for the programme featuring violinist Alina Pogostkina. She will play the First Violin Concerto by Prokofiev. Combined with Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique , this promises to be an exciting evening

Featured quote:

‘Contemporary composers use the same 12 notes that are prevalent throughout musical history, but you hear the sound of today. The echo of what is going on in today’s society.’

Daphina Misiedjan begins prestigious Young Academy appointment

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Daphina Misiedjan begins prestigious Young Academy appointment

“It’s very special to realize that my research really means something to people”

Daphina Misiedjan has been elected a member of the Young Academy of the KNAW. She is a lawyer and researcher at Erasmus University Rotterdam at the International Institute for Social Studies (ISS). The instalment is on March 28, 2023 and is for a period of five years. Misiedjan does research on climate inequality: “I do research on the challenges that vulnerable groups face.”

Can you explain what climate inequality is?

“The richest countries and the companies that contribute the most to climate change are often much less affected. Countries in the global south experience the impact first. Think of extreme droughts or heavy floods. In Yemen, for example, access to water is increasingly at risk, but that country’s CO2 emissions are very limited. Even within countries, you see big differences. For example, it is usually people with higher incomes who contribute more to climate change, but people with lower incomes suffer more.”

Does climate inequality also exist in the Netherlands?

“Certainly, think of the extreme heat that is increasingly common in summer. People with lower incomes have smaller houses, and usually have less access to public green space in the area to cool off. As a result, they are more likely to suffer from heat stress. You also see that this group has less access to subsidies, for example, to better insulate the home.”

Where does your interest in climate inequality come from?

“As a lawyer, I look at rights, regulation and distribution issues that are also determined by legislation. My dissertation was about access to drinking water from a human rights perspective. The international human rights movement emerged just after World War II, but climate was a blind spot for a long time. Only since the 1970s people started realizing that our planet is running into limits. Now the question is how human rights can continue to be safeguarded as we face ever-increasing environmental and climate issues.”

 “I want to try to help vulnerable groups empower themselves more. There are more and more lawsuits to protect vulnerable groups. I think that’s a very interesting development. For example, the lawsuit by Friends of the Earth against Shell for pollution in Nigeria or the Urgenda case in the Netherlands. So law can do good, but it also has a downside because it has also played a role in the current distribution of capital.”

What do you hope to accomplish with your research?

“Initially, I want to expose the role of law. I also think it’s important to do research on topics that really affect people. Possibly my findings can help formulate legal cases. As a researcher, I have more time to dig into something than someone working at an NGO. Parties or individuals can come to me with questions. If I have time, I can get people started and provide information.”

How does that go? Do people approach you?

“That happens regularly, for example, after people have read an interview with me or when they came to a lecture. Recently someone asked if a forest area near him that is in danger of being cut down could be protected with ‘Rights of Nature’. It is special to notice that my research is alive and relevant to people. I can’t always answer, but try to help them where I can. For example, I share links to research or refer to organizations that can help. ISS values social impact and you get to make space for that as well.”

What does it mean to be part of the Young Academy?

“It’s very valuable to connect with researchers from other fields and see how we can complement each other. I also really enjoy being able to help think about science policy and how it affects us as young researchers. For example, about the criteria the NWO (Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek) should use when awarding grants. How can we give social impact more weight in research funding? These are questions we are thinking about. We can also contribute to the research agenda and set up our own research. For example, during the pandemic, research was done on the impact of Covid-19 on young researchers.”

What would you like to put on the agenda?

“I find it interesting to see how we can connect society and science more, especially for children. That’s why the Lil’ScientistOpens external programme appeals to me. They involve children in research by letting them collect data themselves. I would also love to see a Kingdom-wide network for researchers. At first, researchers from the Caribbean islands were not always eligible for NWO grants and until recently were also not eligible for election to the KNAW. Fortunately, this is now possible. I would like to help set up this network.”

ISS Newsletter

In conversation with the new ICC Registrar, Osvaldo Zavala Giler

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In conversation with the new ICC Registrar, Osvaldo Zavala Giler

On 5 April 2023, Osvaldo Zavala Giler (Ecuador) was sworn-in as the new Registrar of the International Criminal Court (ICC), succeeding Mr Peter Lewis (United Kingdom). Mr Zavala Giler was elected by ICC judges for five years. In this exclusive interview with Diplomat Magazine, the new Registrar discusses some of his priorities and his vision for the Court.   

What is your role as the Registrar of the ICC? 

I am the principal administrative officer of the ICC. I am responsible for all the non-judicial aspects of the administration of the Court.

The Registry is the neutral organ of the Court that supports the Judiciary and the Office of the Prosecutor, as well as other parties and participants such as the defence and the representatives of victims. Effective judicial support services are essential to the Court’s functioning, inside and outside the Courtroom. It also includes running our detention facilities, as well as performing all the translation and interpretation services needed.  

In addition to this aspect, my role is also to ensure the proper administration of the Court, as a public international organization. In this context, the Registry plays a critical role in managing the Court’s annual budget, dealing with staffing and recruitment, ensuring the security of the Court, and enabling a safe and inclusive work environment and culture in the organization, for everyone who works in it.

Finally my role is also to foster engagement and communication with a wide array of external partners: by conducting public information and outreach, ensuring cooperation with the ICC, and managing our offices in various situation countries across the world.

Osvaldo Zavala Giler during his interview with Diplomat Magazine.

What is your background?

I am from Ecuador. I have over sixteen years of experience on the work of the ICC, in different capacities, including as Chief of the Budget Section, senior special assistant to the Registrar and Head of Office of the Court’s liaison office to the United Nations in New York. I was also a founding member of ICCQ, the Sexual and Gender Diversity Network at the Court

Before joining the Court, I worked as a legal officer, legal adviser and liaison officer to the United Nations for the Coalition for the International Criminal Court, a partnership of civil society organizations, in The Hague and in New York. In Ecuador, I also worked in a law firm from 2000 to 2003, where I had the opportunity to work on cases before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.

Because of this experience, I understand well the functioning of the Registry, the ICC and the Assembly of States Parties. And I am well aware of the  opportunities, challenges and expectations that come with this position. It is a great honour and a vast responsibility.

What are your priorities during your mandate?

In times of heightened expectations and challenges, my priorities will be to contribute to continuing to build  the ICC as a model of modern public administration that ensures effectiveness and safeguards accountability.

More concretely, this will mean  to: i) deliver on the important investment and commitment made by our States Parties through the increased budget they adopted for the Court for 2023, and ensure the Court has the capacity to effectively and efficiently deliver its  mandate, ii) promote a healthy and productive working environment, iii) galvanize trust and support from stakeholders, and iv) safeguard cooperation including, in particular, regarding witness protection and the execution of pending arrest warrants.

I will encourage a working environment that promotes professionalism, respect, diversity, inclusion and equality. It is simple: being treated with respect, feeling safe in your own working environment, encourages motivation, increases innovation, supports engagement and better performance.

Bangui, Central African Republic in the first visit of the Registrar after his election to a ICC country office. (March 2023) ICC’s Registrar, Osvaldo Zavala Giler. Photography by ICC/CPI
ICC Registrar in Bangui, Central African Republic. Photography ICC/CPI

What challenges and opportunities do you foresee?

In my view, the main overarching strategic challenge faced by the ICC is the continuous consolidation of its legitimacy. While the Court’s legitimacy is not always at risk, it is constantly at stake and is often impacted by some of the more systemic issues affecting the institution, as these directly affect the trust placed on the organization by its stakeholders and the international community as a whole.

The Registry contributes to strengthening the Court’s legitimacy first and foremost by guaranteeing its operational sustainability.

In this regard, servicing the Court by ensuring its operational sustainability is the most direct and comprehensive responsibility of the Registrar. It encompasses, among other duties, building and sustaining a public administration that is accountable, responsible and efficient; and maintaining the support services required by the Judiciary and the parties and participants to the proceedings to bring to effect the judicial mandate of the Court.

As it is States Parties that contribute through their national finances to the Court’s budget, the Registrar must guarantee the most cost-effective and efficient use of resources, while fostering an environment of fiscal responsibility for the demand and use of those resources. An efficiently run and fiscally responsible administration will allow for a constructive environment based on trust and respect that will be more conducive for stakeholders’ willingness to increasingly support the work of the Court.

Another key challenge, and an opportunity, is cooperation from States Parties and support from stakeholders, including, as appropriate, non-States Parties, international and regional organizations, civil society organizations, and societies impacted by the work of the Court. Without cooperation and support, the Court is unable to execute some of the most fundamental aspects of its judicial mandate.  

How do you plan on improving diversity at the Court?  

Diversity in the workplace, including gender balance, geographical representation and multilingualism, must become an internalized priority of the Court. This is essential to ensure a more dynamic, productive and representative workforce.

The improvement of workplace culture is reliant on leadership commitment. A safe, secure, diverse, respectful and productive working environment must be sustained by leaders who embody and reflect with their behaviour the values demanded of the organization. Leaders should not tolerate, in any form or degree, conducts that promote expressions of hatred, racism, discrimination, including gender discrimination and discrimination against members of the LGBTQI+ community, abuse of authority, harassment and/or sexual misconduct. I want us to lead by example.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression. Based in The Hague, The Netherlands, the Court was established by the Rome Statute, an international treaty ratified by 123 countries. As a court of last resort, the ICC complements national tribunals. The Office of the Prosecutor is currently investigating 17 situations on different continents. ICC judges have issued 40 arrest warrants and 9 summonses to appear. 7 persons are currently in ICC custody.  

Egypt, the land of the pharaohs

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Egypt, the land of the pharaohs

By Alexandra Paucescu

As diplomats, we are always the image of our own countries while abroad. Sometimes we meet people that never heard of our country; other times we do things to improve its image or just make it more popular or admired.

Naglaa Elkhawanky is from Egypt, the country of one of the oldest ancient civilizations in the world, dating back to 3100 BC, home to many famous ancient monuments, a country that needs no more presentation. However, she is one of the most active diplomatic spouses that I have met so far, always passionately speaking about her country and presenting its maybe less known treasures to the world.

Born in Cairo and with a Bachelor degree in English, French and Arabic literature and linguistics, this educated lady continued her studies over the years, while traveling the world with her diplomat husband.

She recalls: ‘I got married right after my graduation and we moved to Japan just ten days following our wedding. Japan remains one of the closest postings to my heart because we started our family there. My two daughters were born in Japan, making it a country with a lot of special moments and memories to cherish. Japan was a very interesting country to live in as it has one of the richest civilizations in its region, with a unique culture and traditions that are respectfully kept and preserved. We also lived in the United States of America, Belgium and Germany. In between our foreign postings, I worked in Egypt as a TV reporter, interpreter and tourist consultant’.  And that is maybe how I explain her natural talent for representing Egypt with such professionalism and class.

‘Coming from Egypt, which is visited by tourists from all over the world, I was exposed to many languages throughout my childhood, making me keen to learn thoroughly more than one. I believe that studying a language can help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the culture and people associated with it, as well as help opening a communication channel between people from different countries. Therefore, I studied Japanese and German during our posts in Japan and Germany, which provided me with an open door to both societies and cultures’.

Naglaa Elkhawanky and her husband, Egypt’s ambassador to Belgium.

Life offered her the opportunity to see the world and get to know and fully understand different cultures, while never forgetting her own roots.  You can understand how much she truly loves her country when you hear her speak about it, or, if you are lucky, you get to participate in one of her interesting diplomatic lectures.

Egypt, a North African country of 112 million people (living in 27 governorates but only on 7.8 % of the total land area), has always been described as a magical land, the land of the pharaohs, of the great pyramids that hide priceless treasures and secrets and of a civilization that is even now, thousands of years later, looked at with admiration but also shrouded in mystery. I have to confess that I have always been fascinated with it and, as a child, I was simply devouring any book related to Egypt. The country inspired countless stories and blockbuster movies for years. It has also the most beautiful and interesting underwater life that I have ever seen.

Naglaa adds, during our conversation: ‘it’s worth mentioning that the first diplomatic correspondence and archives have been found in Egypt, dating back to the 13th century BC. While many people are aware of Egypt’s ancient history, I would also like to mention that over the past ten years Egypt has achieved remarkable political, economic and social progress, accelerated steps to improve the quality of life of its people and build a robust economy as well as strengthening its foreign relations and advancing as a leader in renewable energy development. A New Administrative Capital, just 35 km east of Cairo, is nearing completion. Located on a total area of 700 square kilometers, this city will help strengthen and diversify the country’s economic potential, by creating many new opportunities for housing and employment.’

She is a true diplomat, by all means. She completely understands her role in the family dynamic but also as a diplomatic spouse, while she successfully fulfills it.

‘While we are abroad, I represent not only myself, but the image of Egyptian women who have played an active and prominent role throughout our history. This mission by itself  is a huge responsibility.  As diplomatic spouses, we have the precious opportunity to interact with the society of the hosting country, to promote our own with its culture and traditions, through events or being involved in charity programs and activities which have a positive impact on the society.

“Behind every successful diplomat is their spouse”, I find this role very powerful and rewarding, complementing the role of my husband. We work into forging close relationships with the diplomatic community and the society, thus introducing our country in the best way possible to people from other countries and different backgrounds. In all the countries I have served, I really enjoyed organizing events about ancient Egyptian history, Egyptian women, culture, traditions, food and tourism. The feedback is always rewarding and many people who attended those events decided to visit Egypt afterwards. I also raised my three children on the principle that they don’t just represent themselves, but also the Egyptian youth’.

She is for sure an example of class, modesty, wit and multicultural intelligence, but above all she is a proud inheritor of her famous ancestors, a representative that honors the land of pyramids and pharaohs.


About the author:

Alexandra Paucescu

Alexandra Paucescu- Author of “Just a Diplomatic Spouse” Romanian, management graduate with a Master in business, cultural diplomacy and international relations studies.

She speaks Romanian, English, French, German and Italian,  gives lectures on intercultural communication and is an active NGO volunteer.

Warmi Pachakutik – Tiempo de Mujeres by Ecuador

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Warmi Pachakutik – Tiempo de Mujeres by Ecuador

The International Women’s Day started already in The Hague with the screening of Warmi Pachakutik – Tiempo de Mujeres, a documentary introduced by the Embassy of Ecuador to members and guests from the Asociacion Hispanica de La Haya on Tuesday February 21.

Warmi Pachakutik- Tiempo de Mujeres showcase the story of four young women belonging to different ethnic groups, who are involved in art, political activism and business. They are the heroes of this documentary shot in 2020. It is a production of film director Frida Muenala, from Kichwa-Aapoteca origins, one of the indigenous nationalities of Ecuador. They share their personal experiences and sense of belonging to their communities, the role of women in the contemporary society and the reconstruction of a woman identity in a traditional men leadership.

Warmi Pachakutik – Tiempo de Mujeres

During a well-attended presentation, the ambassador of Ecuador, H.E. Mr. Andres Teran Parral, started his welcome speech to his special guests by recreating the history of the United Nations’ decision of commemorating the International Women’s Day on 8 March 1975 , officially declared by the UN Assembly in 1977 stated to create conscience on the importance of women empowering with equal rights gender protection.

Ms. Edith Bergansius, President of Asociacion Hispanica de La Haya.

“However, even today we are seeing in many parts of the world that the rights of women are still brutally violated. The fight for women rights and human rights in general are our responsibility, each one of us from our private life is able to make our world a better place for all.

Women’s enormous contribution to our society is a fact in all professional fields. This is the theme of the film we are watching today. I wish to honor all women present here tonight and our dear host Edith Bergansius an example of effort, work and dedication. I also wish to thanks our embassy team to make it possible.”, stated ambassador Teran.

Tiempo de Mujeres by the Embassy of Ecuador and The Hague Hispanic Association.

After the screening, ambassadors from several Latin American countries, diplomats, members of the Asociacion Hispanica de La Haya and friends enjoyed Ecuadorian empanadas.

The Chilean delegation is slated to take part in the upcoming World Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition

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The Chilean delegation is slated to take part in the upcoming World Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition

By Dr. Lorenca Bejko

Chile is taking the global stage to promote its renewable energy potential at the World Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition. This is a clear testament to the country’s commitment to sustainable energy and becoming a leader in the industry.

ProChile is set to participate in a significant event that will convene key global leaders in the green hydrogen industry. The organization will provide support to a delegation comprising over 55 companies, and will also have a stand at the event. Consequently, the nation will persist in its approach of endorsing Chile’s globalization efforts with the aim of establishing its status as the foremost competitive forthcoming provider of sustainable energy on a global scale.

ProChile is set to spearhead Chile’s involvement in the World Hydrogen 2023 Summit & Exhibition for the second year running. The event, slated to take place from May 9 to 11 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, will convene key players in the global hydrogen sector.

The country of Chile will be represented at the upcoming event through a designated stand. The purpose of this stand is to disseminate information to visitors regarding the various energy potentials that Chile has to offer. Additionally, the stand will serve as a central location for the Chilean delegation, to engage in dialogue with their international counterparts.

Approximately one hundred executives hailing from significant Chilean corporations, government institutions, and officials from the Ministry of Energy and InvestChile, as well as local government representatives, including the mayor of the municipality of Mejillones, Marcelino Carvajal, are slated to partake in the conference with the aim of establishing connections with key industry stakeholders.

The Ministry of Energy places significant importance on convening public-private meetings of this nature. The utilization of green hydrogen is deemed essential in Chile’s trajectory towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Diego Pardow, the Minister of Energy, has expressed the government’s dedication to leveraging the potential of the country and enacting public policies that facilitate the attainment of global leadership in the production of clean fuel and its byproducts.

Chile, Torres del Paine

The assistance provided by ProChile.

The involvement of ProChile is situated within the context of a dissemination strategy aimed at promoting the potential benefits of the H2V industry for Chile. This effort is complemented by the institution’s ongoing efforts to facilitate connections across the global green hydrogen supply chain through its network of regional and commercial offices.

The nation collaborates with primary ports to establish eco-friendly corridors for the purpose of exporting sustainably produced hydrogen and ensuring its efficient distribution across diverse markets.

The establishment of partnerships with multiple nations and ports is crucial for Chile to enhance its global standing. It is imperative that we persistently strive to extend invitations to the international community to progress collectively in the ongoing energy transition, with the aim of contributing to the betterment of the entire planet. According to the speaker, the involvement in the significant World Hydrogen Summit is a component of a cooperative approach between various governmental bodies and private enterprises. This approach will enable a hundred delegates from our ecosystem to showcase the immense potential of our nation to the global community.

The Chilean delegation will include the participation of the Empresa Nacional del Petróleo (ENAP) and the Chilean Hydrogen Association (H2 Chile) this year.

According to Gloria Maldonado, the chairwoman of ENAP’s board, the company has a strong dedication to the energy transition and possesses distinctive capabilities and strategic assets in key areas that have the potential for the advancement of H2V and its derivatives in Chile. ENAP has formulated an all-encompassing strategy for the Magallanes region, aimed at promoting the growth of the H2V sector in Chile. This plan involves streamlining requirements and restructuring current infrastructure to mitigate any negative effects on the environment and local communities, in line with the region’s energy regulatory framework. Hence, it is pertinent to effectively communicate and distribute this Plan on a global scale, such as through participation in the World Hydrogen Summit, to facilitate increased logistical and investment capabilities in Chile.

According to Marcos Kulka, the Executive Director of H2 Chile, the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam serves as both a platform for showcasing and a strategic gateway to Europe. This event provides an opportunity to present the potential of hydrogen to industry leaders on a global scale, thereby further establishing Chile as a valuable partner in this field. It is imperative to strive towards achieving carbon neutrality, given Chile’s potential to provide eco-friendly copper, lithium, energy, and fuels as substitutes for the environmentally detrimental fossil fuels.

The establishment of a worldwide platform for green hydrogen.

The Sustainable Energy Council (SEC) collaborates with the City of Rotterdam, the Province of South Holland, and the Port of Rotterdam to host the World Hydrogen 2023 Summit & Exhibition, which is a preeminent forum devoted solely to the progression of the hydrogen sector. The upcoming event is anticipated to attract in excess of 8,000 attendees from over 100 nations, comprising influential individuals tasked with making critical decisions on a global scale. The gathering will serve as a platform for establishing priorities, unveiling fresh initiatives, and cultivating novel partnerships that are integral to the advancement of the complete hydrogen value chain.

The Summit will assemble prominent companies from the hydrogen ecosystem to present their projects, innovative technologies, new products, and essential services for all facets of this expanding industry. This event will feature a world-class exhibition, technical seminars, and the Hydrogen Awards Ceremony, highlighting the significance of hydrogen in decarbonizing the planet.

Concert on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev

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Concert on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev

Tuesday, 2 May 2023, Berlin, Germany: With the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany organised a concert at the Azerbaijani Cultural Centre in Berlin to mark the 100th birthday of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people.

The event was attended by high-ranking representatives of the German government authorities, ambassadors, representatives of the mass media, personalities from the fields of science and culture, as well as members of the Azerbaijani, Turkish and other communities living in Germany.

The guests first watched a short film about the National Leader Heydar Aliyev.

In his speech, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Germany, H.E. Mr.  Nasimi Aghayev described National Leader Heydar Aliyev as a highly educated, courageous politician of high national spirit who resolutely fought for his principles. Aghayev stressed that the biggest dream of Heydar Aliyev was to restore the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and this dream was realised in 2020 under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev.

Turkish Ambassador H.E. Mr. Ahmet Başar Şen attended the concert.

In his speech, Soltan Mammadov, Member of the German-Azerbaijani Parliamentary Group in the Azerbaijani Parliament, as well as Head of the International Relations Department of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, informed the audience about the activities of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation protecting the national and cultural heritage of Azerbaijan as well as promoting science, education, health, multiculturalism and other areas.

The Chairman of the German-Azerbaijani Forum Hanns-Eberhard Schleyer spoke about the role of Heydar Aliyev in building and developing relations between Germany and Azerbaijan. He emphasised that Heydar Aliyev attached great importance to the relations between the two countries and that these relations are currently developing dynamically.

After the speeches, the concert took place. In the concert, accompanied by the chief conductor and musical director of the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, Ayyub Guliyev, the vocalist Marziya Huseynova, who works for the Deutsche Oper am Rhein, Khanende (singer) Tayyar Bayramov and the master of Tar Sahib Pashazade as well as the Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra of Berlin performed works of famous Azerbaijani composers such as Uzeyir Hajibeyli, Gara Garayev, Fikret Amirov, Asaf Zeynalli, Niyazi, Bakhtiyar Kerimov, Hasan Rzayev as well as Azerbaijani folk songs and works of European composers. An exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and publications about his life were presented at the event.

For further information

The concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZHS4vnp3to

Embassy of Azerbaijan in https://berlin.mfa.gov.az/en/news/3988/concert-on-the-occasion-of-the-100th-anniversary-of-the-national-leader-in-berlin

132 ‘Ndrangheta mafia members arrested

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132 ‘Ndrangheta mafia members arrested

European police and judicial authorities from Belgium, Italy and Germany executed the largest-ever coordinated hit against Italian organised crime

The Hague, 3 May 2023

During an action day executed by 10 countries, 132 members of one of the world’s most powerful criminal networks have been taken into custody. In the early hours of 3 May, law enforcement authorities in Belgium, Germany, Italy, France, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Romania, Brazil and Panama raided multiple locations and seized several companies. Over 2770 officers were involved on the ground during the action day.

Eurojust and Europol supported this international operation against the ‘Ndrangheta, which now stands as the largest hit involving the Italian poly-criminal syndicate to date. The mafia-style organisation is responsible for much of Europe’s cocaine trade, combined with systematic money laundering, bribery, and violence.

The criminal network under investigation was led by several powerful ‘Ndrangheta families based mainly in the town of San Luca, which is in the Italian province of Reggio Calabria. Some of these families have been involved in decades-long clan violence known as San Luca feud, culminating in massive shootings in Italy and abroad, such as the Duisburg massacre in Germany in 2007.

Members of the criminal network were engaged in criminal conspiracy not only by being part of a mafia-style organisation, but also by being responsible for drug trafficking, firearms trafficking, illegal firearms possession, money laundering, fraudulent asset registration, tax fraud and tax evasion, as well as the aiding and abetting of fugitives (who have since been arrested). Two of these fugitives had been on the EU Most Wanted list (https://eumostwanted.eu/). 

Staggering list of criminal activities

The Italian criminal network was mainly devoted to international drug trafficking from South America to Europe, as well as Australia. Authorities uncovered that the network was working in partnership with the Colombian organised crime group ‘Gulf Clan’ and an Albanian-speaking crime group operating in Ecuador and multiple European Countries.

Furthermore, the ‘Ndrangheta clans were involved in international firearms trafficking from Pakistan to South America, providing weapons to the notorious criminal group PCC (Primeiro Comando da Capital) in exchange for cocaine shipments. Investigators tracked the flow of money in an extensive global money laundering system, with massive investments in Belgium, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. The criminal group was investing its profits in real estate, restaurants, hotels, car wash companies, supermarkets, and other commercial activities. In order to pay for cocaine or to transfer illicit assets, the criminals often relied on facilitators using the hawala system.

Police and judicial authorities in lockstep

Eurojust supported the involved authorities by establishing and funding two joint investigation teams. The agency also hosted ten coordination meetings and set up a coordination centre to enable rapid cooperation between the judicial authorities involved in the action day. Three linked cases were opened at Eurojust at the request of the Italian, German and Belgian authorities. Eurojust also facilitated the transmission and execution of European Investigation Orders.

Europol’s Analysis Project on Italian Organised Crime supported the investigation as a priority case. It provided intelligence packages and cross-match reports to the national investigative units involved. In total, more than 200 SIENA (https://www.europol.europa.eu/operations-services-and-innovation/services-support/information-exchange/secure-information-exchange-network-application-siena) messages were exchanged among the countries involved. Besides supporting the investigation itself, the Analysis Project also supported the searches for the three fugitives. The agency also hosted case officers appointed by national investigative units, in order to analyse the encrypted communication that had been gathered. On the action day itself, Europol deployed specialists with mobile offices on the spot in all three countries.

This case falls under the EMPACT Operational Action 2.3 on ‘Ndrangheta and the Sicilian mafia, the first EMPACT action led by the National Antimafia Directorate (Direzione Nazionale Antimafia) in which Europol and Eurojust are co-leaders.

The investigation and the Action Day itself have been supported by the @ON Network funded by the EU (Project ISF4@ON) led by the Italian Antimafia Investigation Directorate (DIA).

The following authorities took part in this investigation:

  • Italy: PPO Reggio Calabria, National Antimafia and Counterterrorism Directorate, Carabinieri in Locri.
  • Germany: PPO Düsseldorf, PPO Koblenz, PPO Munich, PPO Saarbrücken, State Criminal Police Office North Rhine-Westphalia, State Criminal Police Office Rhineland-Palatinate, Bavarian State Criminal Police Office, State Criminal Police Office Saarland, Federal Criminal Police Office Wiesbaden (for analysis).
  • Belgium: Federal PPO in close collaboration with PPO Limburg, Investigating judge Court 1ste Instance  Limburg/section  Tongeren, Federal Judicial Police of Limburg.
  • Portugal: Departamento Central de Investigação e Ação Penal (Central PPO),  Polícia Judiciária- UNCT and Gabinete de Recuperação de Ativos (ARO).
  • France: GPO Aix en Provence, PPO Nice Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism, Prosecutor’s Office attached to Court of Appeal Aix-en-Provence   , Prosecutor ‘s office  of tribunal of Nice , and the attached  Police Directorate for Criminal Investigation  (DCPJ).
  • Romania: Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism, Prosecutor’s Office attached to Court of Appeal Timisoara, Police Directorate for Criminal Investigation, Arad Police Service for Criminal Investigation.
  • Slovenia: : Investigative Judge Nova Gorica, PPO Nova Gorica and National Police, Central Directorate for Criminal Police
  • Spain: Investigative Court in Torremolinos (num 4), Central Court num 3 at Audiencia Nacional; International Cooperation Sections of the Spanish Prosecution Service in Málaga and Antidrug PPO

Registrar Abubacarr M. Tambadou concludes official visit to Rwanda

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Registrar Abubacarr M. Tambadou concludes official visit to Rwanda

Arusha, 4 May 2023– The Registrar of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT or Mechanism), Abubacarr M. Tambadou, today concluded an official mission to the Republic of Rwanda from 2 to 4 May 2023.

While on mission during the official mourning period of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, Registrar Tambadou began by visiting the Gisozi Genocide Memorial to lay a Wreath and pay tribute to the victims. Subsequently, he held high-level meetings with several senior government officials. The Registrar also held an informal stakeholder briefing at the Kigali Field office.

Registrar Tambadou paid tribute to victims and survivors by also laying a Wreath at the Nyanza Genocide Memorial and met with representatives from IBUKA, an umbrella association of Genocide survivor organisations in Rwanda. He spent time with victims and listened to their concerns, particularly regarding public access to the Mechanism’s work.

During the various meetings, the Registrar provided updates on the status of the trial against Félicien Kabuga and other judicial matters, discussed issues related to the Mechanism’s continuous functions such as the enforcement of sentences, protection of victims and witnesses, and management of the archives, as well as other matters of mutual interest, including areas for future cooperation. He also discussed several measures to increase public access to the Mechanism’s work.

Registrar Tambadou was re-appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres as Registrar of the Mechanism effective 1 July 2023.

Zelenskyy visits International Criminal Court 

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Zelenskyy visits International Criminal Court 

On 4 May 2023, HE Mr Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, visited the International Criminal Court (ICC), where he was received by ICC President Judge Piotr Hofmański and ICC Registrar Mr Osvaldo Zavala Giler.

President Hofmański briefed President Zelenskyy on the ICC’s current work, spanning 16 situation countries on four continents and four ongoing trials. He emphasized the Court’s independence and impartiality as a judicial institution mandated to address the most serious crimes under international law. President Hofmański thanked Ukraine for its cooperation with the Court, notably the recent agreement allowing for the creation of an ICC office in the country.

ICC President Judge Piotr Hofmański, President Zelenskyy and ICC Registrar Mr Osvaldo Zavala Giler.

President Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for the role of the ICC in providing justice in Ukraine and contributing to the rule of law worldwide.

Ukraine is not a State Party to the Rome Statute, but it has twice exercised its prerogatives to accept the Court’s jurisdiction over alleged crimes under the Rome Statute occurring on its territory, pursuant to article 12(3) of the Statute. The ICC opened an investigation regarding the situation in Ukraine on 2 March 2022.

The President of Ukraine and the President of the ICC after meeting on May 4th in The Hague.
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