The Hague region is the proud host of more than 85 percent of the diplomatic community in the Netherlands. We feel it is important to make you feel at home in our city. Professionally as host city for embassies, consulates and international organisation. But also personally as you work, live and perhaps raise your children in our city. Therefore the municipality invests in making the city attractive for internationals by offering support and advice to newcomers, English language information and services, affordable education for international children and lots of ways to enjoy the Sea and green around the city.
Support for international newcomers
For over 12 years, The Hague International Centre has provided free help for international newcomers who work or live in The Hague region. We take care of formalities upon arrival such as municipal registration and residence documents. The centre provides information and guidance about things like immigration, housing, learning Dutch, finding a job, education and more. You can visit the daily helpdesk with your questions, pick up a copy of our welcome guide for newcomers, get recommendations for trusted service providers or sign up for events. At the centre you will be greeted by volunteers from the not-for-profit ACCESS. To prepare for a move, the centre offers checklists, webinars, welcome guides and a new relocation app.
All rights reserved. Copyright 2017 Lodewijk Duijvesteijn Photography. For usage requests or general information please see www.lodewijkphotography.com
Municipal registration
The International Centre also arranges the municipal registration for newcomers. Diplomats can opt to be registered with the municipality next to their registration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Many chose to register as public services are easier to arrange once you are registered and have access to the Dutch digital log-in DigiD. To register you need to make an appointment via our website, bring your documents and attend in person. Registration does not affect your fiscal privileges and immunities.
Volunteer
If you are interested in giving back to the community, you may want to volunteer. The Hague offers lots of volunteer opportunities for which Dutch is not required. Via ACCESS you can volunteer at The Hague International Centre. Volunteer The Hague offers a job portal for vacancies and regular Mix-and-Match events to network with organisations.
Events
Throughout the year the International Centre organises events to help international newcomers settle in and make them feel at home. Four times a year a Welcome to The Hague event for newcomers. The event offers insight into the Dutch culture, things to do, a city tour and drinks to connect with other newcomers The ideal opportunity to start life in The Hague. Every month the centre also organises thematic events about key elements of your new life in the Netherlands, such as healthcare, finding a home, education, Dutch language or taxes. On the sixth of November The Hague International Centre organised the annual Feel at Home Fair. More than 500 internationals got information from 50 sport, social and community clubs. A true celebration of the diversity of the local international ecosystem!
If you do not want to miss the next events keep an eye out at the event section on our website for our own events and other international-friendly events in the region.
Denhaag.com offers a complete overview of all things to do in the region. You can find out how to have a Royal Winter in The Hague or what cultural activities are planned for the Escher Year. In 2023 it will be 125 years ago that Escher was born .
Stay updated
If you do not want to miss out on the latest news, events and updates, please sign up for our newsletter or follow our social media channels. You can follow The Hague International Centre on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. Visit our website at www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl, or helpdesk in City Hall from Monday till Friday or send your questions to internationalcentre@denhaag.nl.
About the author:
Gerko Visée,
Adviser & Account Manager, The Hague International Centre
Gerko Visée works as policy officer for The Hague International Centre. For the last five years he has been in contact with employers, service providers and government agencies to make The Hague region more attractive for international staff and companies.
On October 6th, 2022, Professor Jan Anthonie Bruijn, President of the Dutch Senate, flew to Jakarta, Indonesia, to participate in the P20 meeting. This meeting gathers parliamentary representatives of the countries which are members of the G20, a high-level diplomatic group bringing together some of the most powerful states of the world.
The P20 meeting is part of a broader field of diplomacy called parliamentary diplomacy. In an exclusive interview with Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, the President of the Dutch Senate, Professor Bruijn, explained what parliamentary diplomacy is, and the role that the institution he represents plays in diplomatic efforts.
While the media’s spotlight is often on diplomatic visits by high-level figures such as Heads of State and Prime Ministers, diplomacy actually consists of a number of different channels of contacts among states. These include meetings not only among ambassadors, diplomats and civil servants, but also among members of parliament (MPs) and Speakers and Presidents of parliaments.
At the Presidents of parliaments’ level – Professor Bruijn explained – the focus is not on political issues, which fall under the remit of the government or of the members of parliament representing specific parties. Rather, Presidents of parliaments represent their respective institutions, and therefore their discussions focus on broader and less politicized topics, such as the working of democracy and parliaments, as well as the overall ties between various countries and their peoples.
The Dutch Senate and Professor Bruijn are very active on the diplomatic front, regularly meeting with foreign ambassadors and welcoming high-level delegations from all over the world. Dutch MPs are also very active in a number of inter-parliamentary frameworks, such as those of the Benelux, the Council of Europe (CoE), the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), as well as in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
During the interview, Professor Bruijn sought to stress that, in these frameworks, it is the precious work of many of his fellow MPs that allows parliamentary democracy to flourish. As examples he mentioned,’amongst many, many others’, the prominent role played by MPs such as Tiny Kox, Petra Stienen, Ria Oomen, and Farah Karimi, praising their and their colleagues’ activity in the various frameworks mentioned above. The role of the Senate and its President – Professor Bruijn said – is that of providing organisational and technical support to these engaged representatives.
Professor Dr. Jan Anthonie Bruijn, President of the Dutch Senate.
The high level of diplomatic engagement of the Dutch Senate reflects the strong emphasis that the Netherlands as a country puts on diplomacy. “We realize that we are a small country, and as such we need to be very active in order to play a role internationally. Diplomacy is very important for us” – Professor Bruijn explained. These diplomatic efforts may be at times visible and at times less so. Regardless of their visibility, Professor Bruijn argued, such efforts are key to enable the exchange of views among countries, with the aim to ensure peace, respect, and contacts among peoples.
Over the past months, the war in Ukraine has created new challenges for the field of diplomacy. Asked about the implications of these developments for the diplomatic work of his institution, Professor Bruijn explained that it is not primarily up to the Senate to determine a political stance, which is instead the task of the government and the House of Representatives. However, “we try to contribute to dialogue anywhere and anyway we can”, he explained, mentioning his multiple meetings over the past months, both in person and digitally, with the Speaker of Ukraine’s parliament.
Occasions such as the recent P20 meeting in Jakarta also create avenues for precious diplomatic work. For instance, this year’s P20 – hosted by the Indonesian Parliament, in collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union – became a meeting point for lawmakers from not only all G20 members, but also other countries. The list of participants included representatives from both Russia and Ukraine, as well as from the United States and the United Kingdom, creating a platform where each representative could deliver their own message.
During this occasion, Professor Bruijn, who also teaches immunopathology at the Leiden University Medical center, made a speech in which, reflecting on the Netherlands’ handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, he illustrated the importance of parliaments in ensuring the proper functioning of a country’s democracy. This speech shed light on the key role that parliaments play – both at home, where they ensure that democracy remains solid and vibrant, and abroad, where they create avenues for connections among countries.
Diplomatic children – a term increasingly used to refer to children whose parent(s) are diplomats. The early stages of their lives are usually characterized by moving, traveling, and cultural exchanges, something one might not expect from young children.
14-year-old Fernanda Ginschel is one of the many diplomatic children residing in The Hague. She and her family moved here two years ago when her father Jens-Volker Ginschel was assigned to the Embassy of Germany to the Netherlands as the Armaments Attaché.
Fernanda is in her 10th grade at the German International School of The Hague. As she is in her last few years of secondary school, academics are taking up most of her time. In addition, Fernanda is very passionate about sports, so her weekly schedule is packed with gymnastics, track and field, and tennis training. She would have liked to do even more if schoolwork did not keep her so busy. Whenever she does have free time, she loves spending it with friends or listening to music. Fernanda seems to be living the life of a typical teenager.
Fernanda Ginschel.
Photography by Geert van Tol | MEIDEN magazine
However, her father’s occupation has given Fernanda a rather unique international experience for someone her age. She was born and raised in Germany under a German father and Peruvian mother, alongside her older sister. In 2015, her entire family moved to Madrid, Spain, and Fernanda parted with her home country for the first time. Five years later, they made a second move to the Netherlands for Mr. Ginschel’s assignment.
When asked about her experience thus far, Fernanda spoke of it with much positivity and enthusiasm. Her family’s situation has allowed her to see new countries, meet new people, and learn about other cultures. She adores the peacefulness that the Netherlands has to offer, along with the proximity of the beaches. Ever since she moved here, she has also taken up the Dutch biking culture; she will take her bike anywhere in the city.
Fernanda’s distinct background and experience have also given her command of multiple languages. She speaks German and Spanish at home while learning English, Dutch, and French at school. Participating in local sports clubs is helping her practice Dutch, though she admits having German as her mother tongue has been a pleasant advantage. It is not surprising to hear that languages are her favorite subjects in school.
Despite all her praises, Fernanda acknowledges that the life of a diplomatic child is not without challenges. Every move means leaving friends and familiarity behind to start again in a new setting. For example, she remembers the initial struggle of learning French at her current school as all her peers got an early start. Of course, there is no escaping homesickness either; aside from friends and family, Fernanda especially misses the German bread she used to get at home.
Fernanda and her father, Jens-Volker Ginschel, Armaments Attaché, Embassy of Germany. Photography by August Zeidman.
Nevertheless, “I’m just very grateful,” expressed Fernanda; she appreciates all the new opportunities this experience has given her. One unexpected thing she has stumbled upon in the Netherlands is modeling. Fernanda reads many local magazines to learn Dutch, and she once saw a modeling advertisement in one of them. She has always been fond of taking photos, so she signed up. This landed Fernanda in her first photoshoot, with the theme being “Star for a Day.” She chose to be Olivia Rodrigo, one of her favorite singers who is currently making waves amongst listeners of her generation. Her busy schedule has not given Fernanda the time for more modeling projects, but she would like to continue it soon.
When asked about her plans for the future, Fernanda is undecided at the moment, but she would like to interact with different cultures in an international environment. It seems reasonable considering her upbringing. She also wants to travel around and see more of the world, mentioning England and the United States at the top of her list. A career in diplomacy like her father would allow her to do so, but she still has plenty of time before making a decision.
In her message to fellow diplomatic kids, Fernanda simply says “don’t be scared.” The change will always be difficult at first, as one adjusts to leaving friends, family, and everything they know. However, this initial struggle will be worthwhile as you eventually discover so much about new people, places, and cultures. Besides, one does not have to leave all things one holds dear behind; she still keeps in touch with relatives and old friends, who will always be there when she comes back to visit. If given the chance to change her diplomatic child experience, Fernanda said she still would not do anything differently.
About the author:
Audrey Nguyen
Thuc Anh “Audrey” Nguyen – Vietnamese student studying BSc International Relations and Organizations at Leiden University.
Her mother’s career in foreign affairs allowed her to experience diplomatic life growing up. The unique international setting of her childhood sparked her interest in global affairs. After moving to The Hague a few years ago for her mother’s assignment, she has stayed behind to begin her own path in International Relations.
The Hague,15 November 2022, the Diplomatic in The Hague bids farewell to H.E. Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales of Guatemala.
Hence, Diplomat Magazine organized a Ceremony of Merit in recognition for what this esteemed Ambassador has achieved during his stint in the Netherlands.
Diplomat Magazine awards a certificate of merit to departing Ambassadors as a token for their outstanding contribution to strengthening the ties between their countries and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Furthermore, for the significant collaboration with the multilateral institutions in the Netherlands.
H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of Argentina, Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klee and H.E. Mr. Vusimuzi Madonsela Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa.
H.E. Mr. Vusimuzi Madonsela, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of Argentina, and H.E. Mr. Juan Bautista Duran, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, lauded and thanked Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klee for what he has achieved for the Diplomatic Community.
In his valediction speech Ambassador Vusimuzi Madonsela noted:
“May I say how absolutely mortified I am with the news I have recently received, of the imminent departure from The Hague of a dear brother and friend, HE, Mr Jorge Skinner-Klee Arnales, Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Permanent Representative to the OPCW.
Ambassador from every continent attended the Ceremony of Merit for Ambassador Skinner-Klee.
To be sure, it is with mixed feelings of both pleasure and affliction that I accepted the invitation to attend this function this evening. Pleasure, because a pleasant duty now devolves upon me to say farewell to one of the most quixotic diplomats of our time.
Affliction, because I have always harboured profound admiration for any man who is witty; and so witty, eloquent and refined Jorge no doubt is. My affliction proceeds from the fact that Jorge was amongst the first Ambassadors I was so fortunate as to strike an acquaintance with, and no sooner did I become accustomed to being guided by his sound judgment on important matters of diplomatic life.
On such matters, I dare say, Jorge possesses great natural acuteness, sharply improved by his many years of diplomatic practice, all of which great attributes render him a rare breed amongst his peers. He is a quintessential diplomat who is able to, in an instant, pointedly observe and discern important matters of state and then express an opinion in the most measured manner, infused with beautiful banter and repartee – a trait that a seasoned diplomat requires, more especially in a multilateral setting such as we have in The Hague.
There is, of course, another circumstance about the suddenness of the announcement of his imminent departure, which aggravate my affliction, which has to do with the fact that he is destined to depart before the 27th Session of the Conference of States Parties, over which I will have the distinguished honour and privilege to preside. In this regard I only wish to say this: that I have constantly observed that amongst the deeds and sayings of illustrious persons, some have joined the cacophony of loud voices in the world and became known for that, whilst others have been really sound yet calm, and therefore less talked about. Jorge forms part of the latter category, which is why when I grow up, I would like to be like him.
I am confirmed in the opinion I have just expressed by a conversation I had a few days ago with his Deputy Head of Mission, another dear brother of mine, Lester Antonio Ortega Lemus, a colleague upon the sharpness of whose judgment of character I very much rely, as much as I do upon the goodness of his taste in many finer things in life: not because I think his discernment very great, for I don’t want to make him conceited, but because I think it as good as mine: which, I must confess, counts a great deal.
H.E. Mr. Sulkjuk H.E. Mr. Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, Ambassador of Pakistan and Ambassador Skinner-Klee.
Undoubtedly, Jorge’s great fame already precedes his move to Vienna; but many of out there will surely find him even more wonderful than they have heard of him. He possesses the utmost readiness, copiousness, and abundance of wit and vivacity; which enable him to often speak quite extempore, with punch lines that are as finished as though he had spent a long time over their written composition.
His convivial character and charming style, I dare say, is unmistakably Latino, or is it perhaps ultimately Guatemalan, with his introductions into many conversations being particularly elegant, absorbing and very impressive.
Jorge brings into conversations various subjects for discussion, allows his colleagues their choice, and at once has everything almost equally at command. His prologue is always to the point, his narrative lucid and his rhetorical ornament very imposing. In a word, he teaches, entertains, and affects you; so much you end up being at a loss to decide which of the three he does best. Invariably, questions about recondite meanings of things in diplomacy I have posed to him, and words – whatever words they are which consist his response, come out of his mouth exquisitely chosen and polished.
H.E. Ms. Marisol Aguero Colunga, Ambassador of Peru, Ambassador Skinner-Klee Arenales and the Ambassador of Chile, H.E. Mr. Jaime Moscoso Valenzuela.
As for his memory, you would hardly believe what it is capable of. He, extempore, repeats what he has previously said, as if it was only yesterday, without even missing a single word. Undoubtedly, this marvellous faculty he has acquired by dint of great application and practice. He reminds that those of us who still have to go through the long and arduous journey of diplomacy must make every effort not to contract a certain unprincipled adroitness know as duplicity.
Indeed, Jorge’s generation of diplomats has produced a plentiful crop of fine orators. It has always been a pleasure to me to find that a taste for polite arts still exists in today’s world, and that men and women of genius do come forward and make themselves known, notwithstanding the lazy attention they sometimes get for their pains.
So, knowing, as I have come to, as to how much Jorge admires the polite arts, and what satisfaction he takes in seeing some of us young diplomats making an effort in pursuit of the steps of those who came before us, gives me much gratification. Without putting any undue pressure upon him, let me seize this earliest opportunity of informing him today that I am looking forward to reading a book by him in the near future on “Elements of Style in Diplomacy – The Art of Persuasive Speaking.”
Dr Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher and H.E. Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales.
These, Excellencies, are my daily reflections, which I happily share with you. Farewell Excellency Jorge Skinner-Klee Arnales. You’ll be sorely missed by many here in The Hague!
Ambassador at the Ceremony of Merit honouring Ambassador Skinner-Klee.
Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klee’s qualities were deemed worthy of a second speaker, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of Argentina, who took to the floor to praise his departing colleague and friend. Here are his remarks.
“It is a great honor and also a little bit sad to greet goodbye to one of our finest, the Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala Jorge Skinner-Klée Arenales, who is soon to leave us to be Ambassador to Austria and several other countries as well as the permanent representative to the international organizations in Vienna.
H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales and the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Mr. Ziad M.D. al Atiyah.
Correct me if I am wrong, Jorge, but Vienna will be your 10th headship of mission in a row, in Latin America and Europe, including both bilateral and multilateral affairs. That speaks loud about Ambassador Skinner’s professionalism and versatility. Also about the trust that successive Guatemala’s governments have bestowed upon him.
You know, after being abroad for some time, we all struggle to keep the perspective of our national interests, and where we come from. Imagine after spending more than 2 decades abroad as is the case with Ambassador Skinner. But Jorge never lost that.
H.E. Mr. Juan Bautista Duran, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic with H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales, Ambassador of Guatemala.
He always understood that despite our differences in the Latin American and Caribbean region, we are better off together. And I think that I speak for all GRULAC colleagues in saying that we will miss his driving and unifying force.
We will miss your wittiness, your empathy and your resolve to be true to yourself in a world where principles are often disposable for the sake of achieving the immediate goal.
H.E. Mr Vusimuzi Madonsela, Ambassador of South Africa.
On a more personal note, I feel very fortunate for the friendship that you have given me, and that I will cherish.
You taught me a lot, and I enjoy working and spending time with you also an awful lot.
For those of you who may not know Jorge that well, in addition to and perhaps despite being a lawyer, he is well versed in history, literature and religion, besides having a prodigious memory, having myself witnessed his fascinating discussions that revelead his knowledge, but above all, his humanity.
H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal Ambassador of Argentina.
You taught me that you can make work fun without distracting you or wasting time. That you can defend the position of your country without delegitimizing other countries positions.
That you can compromise while remain faithful to your values and what you represent. I wish you, Jorge, all and only the best. And I would like to raise a glass for Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klée Arenales.”
Guatemala’s cake
Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Publisher of DM presented the Certificate of Merit and a bouquet of colorful flowers to Ambassador Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales.
The ceremony, although serene, concluded with a joyous reception.
Certificate of Merit – Ceremony of Merit- Farewell ceremony
On 21 November 2022, the International Criminal Court (ICC) launched the campaign “Join the ICC List of Counsel!” to increase the number of lawyers from Latin America and the Caribbean practicing before the ICC. Through a number of activities with national bar associations in several countries, the campaign will encourage candidates from the region to apply to the List of Counsels. It will also represent an opportunity for the legal communities to learn more about the ICC and its work.
Victims, accused persons and under certain conditions, suspects have the right to be assisted by Counsel in the proceedings before the ICC. The Court is committed to providing these individuals with a pool of highly qualified Counsel, ensuring in such a way an adequate legal representation. Therefore, experienced lawyers who wish to represent defendants, victims or witnesses before the Court must first be admitted to the List of counsel. Those who are at an early stage of their career, as well as professors of law with relevant expertise, can apply for admission to the List of Assistants to Counsel.
While the majority of the countries from the Group of Latin America and the Caribbean (GRULAC) are State Parties of the Court, this region is amongst the least represented regions on the List of Counsel and List of Assistants to Counsel. With only 20 lawyers in the List of Counsel, the region only represents 2,14% of the List. In addition, there is almost no female presence among GRULAC lawyers on the List of Counsel.
“It is crucial to the ICC to promote diversity and ensure an inclusive environment, including amongst the lawyers who practice before the Court,” said ICC Registrar Peter Lewis. “This campaign is pivotal to the continued dialogue with the legal communities of the region and to enhancing knowledge about the ICC. Lawyers play a crucial role as leaders in the international criminal law field,” he added.
Information sessions, that are the central element of the campaign, are expected to be organised in Costa Rica, México, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago and Argentina, with possibility of extension in more countries later next year. The candidacy of counsels from the region and in particular women will be prioritized during this period.
In addition to opening new professional perspectives to counsels, to be part of the ICC Lists offers training opportunities and building legal skills as well as the opportunity to developing professional links around the world.
“ICC Counsels play a crucial role at the ICC. On a personal level, practicing as a Counsel before the Court is very rewarding. Besides being a motivating professional experience, it is an opportunity to build a career in international criminal law, develop professional networks and strengthen skills and knowledge,” said Jennifer Naouri, President of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA). “The ICCBA, as the association representing Counsel and support staff before the ICC, supports and advocates for the highest geographical, cultural and gender diversity for those appearing before the Court. Only the promotion of this diversity, particularly in the courtroom, can contribute to the achievement of a truly universal international justice,” she added.
By H.E. Mr. Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Last Sunday 8.3 million of people of Kazakhstan have chosen their future. Through one day one nation has made one big decision by electing the one person who will be representing their voices.
This year has been the most tumultuous in recent history of the country. Yet despite these challenges, our nation began writing a new chapter of our political development tumultuous.
After the turbulence President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, proposed constitutional reforms to transform country’s entire state model and form of government: by limiting the powers of the President, strengthening the role of parliament, enhancing citizens’ engagement in political processes, and further strengthening the protection of human rights.
The implementation of concrete reforms has ensured that Kazakhstan is on firm footing. Country’s economic initiatives are focussed on diversification, de-monopolisation, and ensuring a fair distribution of the national income.
Significantly, as per President Tokayev’s proposal, the presidential term has been reducedfrom two five-year terms to a single seven-year period without the possibility of re-election.
This initiative eliminates the risks of power monopolisation and strengthen the basic principles of democracy.
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Six candidates have run with varying political views, including representatives of the opposition, giving the electorate extensive choice. In addition, for the first time in our historyof Presidential lections, two female candidates were running for president. This is another important step in Kazakhstan’s ongoing democratic development. Over many years, Kazakhstan has been taking solid steps to ensure gender equality and to promote women’s role in business and politics. We are now witnessing the fruits of these efforts.
Six candidates have presented their campaign and visualization of country’s future. Only one candidate has won this race.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has won the presidential election in Kazakhstan after receiving 81,31% of the vote. This was announced by the Central Election Commission (CEC) after the votes were counted. According to the preliminary results, other candidates received votes as follows: Zhiguli Dairabayev – 3,42 %, Karakat Abden – 2,60 %, Meiram Kazhyken – 2,53 %, Nurlan Auesbayev – 2,22 %, Saltanat Tursynbekova – 2,12 %, against all – 5,8 %.
According to the CEC, 8 300 046 citizens cast their vote, a turnout of 69.44%. Voting took place at 10,101 polling stations across the country, including 68 polling stations at 53 diplomatic missions of Kazakhstan around the world.
The election was monitored by 641 observers from international organisations and foreign states. Commenting on the election process, foreign observers noted the high organisational level of the election. No violations in the conduct of the election were reported by the observers. The election was also covered by 254 foreign journalists who received accreditation.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Presidential elections Nov 2022.
Speaking after the voting had ended, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said that if elected, “the government will remain in office, but point-by-point changes in the composition of the government and other agencies will of course take place.” He also noted that he would announce the date of parliamentary elections at the end of the year.
In line with recent constitutional changes, President Tokayev will serve a 7-year term without the right to re-election. Answering a question yesterday from a journalist on whether seven years would be enough to fulfil all the promises to the people, Tokayev said: “I believe that seven years will be enough, because this is a long time in the life of any person. The most important thing is that there will be no monopoly on power in our country.”
This was the seventh presidential election in Kazakhstan since the country’s independence in 1991.
On 24 November 2022, the International Criminal Court (“ICC”) held the second Asia-Pacific Regional Seminar of Judges on the Rome Statute and the International Criminal Court with Judges and judicial officials from five States Parties to the Rome Statute as well as two States that are not party to the Statute. The seminar, which was held online was co-hosted with the Supreme Court of the Republic of Korea and organised with the financial support of the European Commission.
The Second Asia-Pacific Regional Seminar of Judges aimed to continue the dialogue among the States and the ICC to increase cooperation in the international criminal justice system by enhancing understanding about the ICC cooperation regime, promoting efforts towards universal ratification of the Rome Statute of the ICC, and reinforcing high-level and technical contacts and partnerships.
The seminar was opened by Judge Myeongsu Kim, Chief Justice of the Korean Supreme Court, and by Judge Piotr Hofmański, President of the ICC, and consisted of two sessions, each dedicated to a topic of relevance.
In his opening remarks, President Hofmański reflected on the role that judges and other judicial actors have as bearers of the rule of law in their national systems. “While joining treaties is mainly a matter for governments and parliaments, we believe that networking and awareness raising among the judges is also crucial. As respected members of your country’s legal community, you can take part in fostering dialogues about the International Criminal Court in your national setting,” he said.
Speakers included ICC Judge Chang-ho Chung, ICC Judge Tomoko Akane as well as Presiding Judge Kang Jin Baik of the Kwangju High Court of the Republic of Korea. With the valuable contribution of the speakers, the participants had the opportunity to acquire a greater understanding of the Rome Statute system and the Court in general. In particular, during the break-out session, the participants were able to create a network among the national judges to exchange views and experiences on Rome Statute related matters in closed setting.
In his remarks, Judge Chang-ho Chung stated “As an Asia-Pacific judge, it is important to bear in mind that the basis of criminal procedure is quite the same between the International Criminal Court and the national court. There is no problem in moving from one to the other. The only particular aspect that needs to be taken into account is the nature of the crimes prosecuted before the International Criminal Court.”
The Asia-Pacific Regional Seminar of Judges forms part of the broader efforts of the Court, the Assembly of States Parties and civil society to promote universal ratification of the Rome Statute. With the partnership of the Republic of Korea as one of the co-focal points for universality in the Assembly, and the support from the European Commission, the Court intends to continue facilitating dialogue among senior judges in this context in 2023.
One year after an interview with Diplomat Magazine, Stanza Bookshop opens a new Greek section in collaboration with the Embassy of Greece in the Netherlands. The inauguration ceremony took place on-site on November 10th, 2022.
The event hosted local members of the Greek community, Stanza’s staff members, and the Embassy. In our conversations with guests, we learned about how this project came to be.
In recent years, Stanza has received personal requests for Greek books. Although a Greek collection was not previously available, the store would still provide for individual orders. The need for Greek books was also present in the Embassy, but H.E. Ambassador Caterina Ghini said, “We could not find them anywhere!” Thus, when they stumbled upon this international bookstore at the heart of The Hague, an idea immediately came to mind.
The Embassy reached out to Stanza’s owner, Karina Romay, intending to establish a new provider of Greek books. Considering the requests she had gotten from her customers, Karina was thrilled by the concept. Since August 2022, the Embassy worked closely with Stanza to connect the store with Greek publishers. It was a new experience for everyone.
Karina does not speak Greek and was initially not very familiar with Greek literature, while the Embassy had never worked with books. With their combined efforts, their plan materialized and a new Greek section was added to Stanza.
New Greek children books at Stanza book store.
The store currently houses almost 300 Greek titles of a wide variety for all ages. Aside from literature of different genres, the books cover cooking, travel, and political science, among other topics. There are children’s books, in addition to early reader and language books. The latter two are not only suitable for young kids but also learners of the Greek language. Many available titles are also translated from Greek into numerous languages, including English, French, and German. Indeed, this diversity suggests a section catered to readers of all interests and backgrounds, including non-Greek-speaking customers.
This attribute was echoed in our talks with Ambassador Ghini and Attache Eleni Godevenou. The project is catered toward Greek people in the Netherlands who had difficulty finding books in their mother tongue. There are approximately 40,000 Greek people residing in the Netherlands, including those working at international organizations and students. The Embassy wishes to bring a sense of home to this Greek community living abroad. However, they hope the project can serve non-Greek people as well.
Considering the number of travelers in Greece and people’s general fascination for Greek culture, especially its history and cuisine, the new section definitely achieves this purpose. Ambassador Ghini believes that the love for reading truly “brings everyone together.”
Since the new addition, Karina has seen a clear uptick in Greek book sales. The news had clearly spread among the local community even before this official inauguration.
In other regards, Stanza Bookshop has also expanded. A second location has opened across the street from the first branch that hosts the Greek section. The store is still receiving some final touch-ups, but it has already come into shape and is open for business. The team is exhilarated by the extra space, especially because it helps with hosting events, such as readings for children. Stanza’s collection has broadened as well, as we see a more extensive stock of Eastern European books. They cover languages like Albanian, Hungarian, and more recently, Ukrainian.
Stanza Greek book section opening event.
It is without a doubt that Stanza Bookshop continues to keep the joy of reading alive for people from all different backgrounds. This has not changed since we last met with Karina. Greek is another language that Stanza has opened its doors to, but is unlikely to be the last.
About the author:
Audrey Nguyen
Thuc Anh “Audrey” Nguyen – Vietnamese student studying BSc International Relations and Organizations at Leiden University.
Her mother’s career in foreign affairs allowed her to experience diplomatic life growing up. The unique international setting of her childhood sparked her interest in global affairs. After moving to The Hague a few years ago for her mother’s assignment, she has stayed behind to begin her own path in International Relations.
Friday, 18 November 2022, Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan: On the sidelines of the EU-Central Asia Connectivity Conference, the head of the Turkmen delegation Vepa Hajyiev encountered the Vice President of the European Commission, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell.
During the meeting, the importance of bilateral and regional cooperation and the implementation of the transformative power of the green and digital agenda to increase the benefits for our regions were discussed.
The conference had the topic ‘Global Gateway for Sustainable Development’. It was attended by government delegations of the states of Central Asia and the leadership of European political and financial institutions.
The purpose of the conference was to develop intra- and inter-regional dialogue to achieve sustainable connectivity in accordance with the European Global Gateway strategy, which was launched on 1 December 2021, as well as to present Team Europe cooperation initiatives in Central Asia.
During the conference, issues related to sustainable connectivity, creating opportunities for expanding and deepening interregional ties in the areas of digitalization, strengthening transport routes, water-energy and environmental protection were discussed.
The delegations also discussed topical issues of cooperation in the areas of diversification of transport routes, digitalization, as well as green energy development.
In his speech, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vepa Hajyiev noted that digitalization is one of the priority areas of development policy in Turkmenistan.
It was emphasized that the Turkmen side considers it promising to implement projects on the use of digitalization to facilitate and increase regional trade and transit, rational use of water resources, as well as projects to increase human potential in the field of digitalization, including in the field of cybersecurity.
Vice President of the European Parliament Eva Kaili, Chair of the Panel for the Future of Science and Technology (STOA) hosted the ‘European Tech Futures Summit’ at the European Parliament (14-17 November 2022). The eclectic week included numerous events calling attention to the state of the European Union’s technological innovation, and debated the way forward in transforming the Union into a leader in the fields of green technologies and regulation, taking into account the EU’s climate and sustainability goals as well as the citizens’ fundamental rights.
MEP Eva Kaili opened the week on 14th November 2022 with a trans-Atlantic and pan-European digital function that brought together Deutsche Bank’s Jennifer Courant, Head of Sustainability at the division for Technology, Data and Innovation as well as Centre for Digital Governance’s Prof. Joanna Bryson and the Centre for Sustainability’s Prof. Lynn Kaack at Hertie School in Berlin.
The three topics discussed were the following:
Why do we talk about sustainability and CSR during a European Tech Future Summit?
Embedding sustainability in a firm’s strategy and throughout all its operations is not just a business imperative, it is an increasingly challenging requirement. Sustainability objectives are shaping business models, and technology and data will continue to be the enablers. It is one thing to set overall sustainability goals and commitments, it is far more nuanced to recognize all the elements and the important adjacencies – beyond carbon and environmental topics and driving towards a step change in diversity, equity, inclusion and governance. This is the ultimate transformation of business models for organizations, and importantly, their people. To show that caring for these goals can change the way we work, the impact we have and the ability for capital markets to not just keep the economy strong, but resilient and with a mindset of sustainability in the most positive, life impacting way. To lay out goals, build thoughtful execution roadmaps and do this through informed, data-led decisions – we need to make the most of data. Data, technology and artificial intelligence allow us to connect business strategy, day-to-day operations and sustainability goals into business transformation and decision making.
Which is the tech, and tech policy innovations being developed within the EU to boost our green/sustainability/CSR agenda through AI, and other new technologies?
The EU is developing a plethora of initiatives in order to provide frameworks for businesses to live up to the green transition goals whilst remaining competitive vis-à-vis other large markets. The EU merely in June 2021 set up the US-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) as the USA remains our major partner for technological exchanges.
Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain are high on the EU’s agenda, the latter owing to the European Parliament recent approval of the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation, wherein the technology’s energy efficiency was put under the microscope by parliamentarians. The EU approach to AI regulation is forthcoming, yet it is reasonable to expect that sustainably compliant products shall be promoted. As a matter of fact, the European Union is already preparing a new proposal for a Corporate Sustainable Due Diligence Directive encouraging large businesses to anchor human rights and environmental considerations in their operations; trying not to overburden the SMEs but helping them to change their models. AI and other new technologies will likely fall hereunder.
The World Economic Forum estimates that 70% of the new value created in the global economy over the next decade will be digitally enabled; AI, Big Data, Cloud, and blockchain will be major players, and the European Union is sparing no effort in setting green and sustainable standards from the outset through our regulation.
How can we use AI to bring ourselves forward in our sustainable, environmental and social goals as a Union?
Without question, the sustainability agenda is humanity’s most essential, because without our own persistence none of our other long-term goals can be achieved. The term Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often confused to mean “humanlike”, which historically, was even tied up with “divine” and other supernatural links. But framed as the subset of intelligent agencies for which humans are responsible for the construction and design, we can see why AI is not only something that can be regulated, but also that it can be used as part of the global approach to sustainability.
The need to act on climate change has become more important than ever, and it is only one of many urgent sustainability goals. As the field of artificial intelligence, in particular machine learning, is developing rapidly we need to choose a path where AI tools are primarily deployed in ways that align with our sustainability objectives. AI can for example aid in designing new built infrastructure, optimizing energy systems to become greener, and provide better access to social services.
Such changes will require not only technological but also cultural and political innovation. Governance is essential for implementing strategies that benefit all. We need to not just accommodate but fully embrace goals that are sustainable, and exclude the unsustainable. This includes embracing fairness, since unfair policies will never be stable. New technologies need to be accessible and beneficial for all, and this requires a conscious effort by society, industry, and politics. Now is a critical time to ensure that AI will help us as a Union to move towards a more sustainable future.
