The 77th Anniversary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

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The 77th Anniversary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Embassy of Vietnam in the Netherlands organized a reception to Celebrate the 77th Anniversary  National Day of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. The celebration of this memorable day took place in The Hague on 19th September 2022.

H.E. Ambassador Pham Viet Anh opened the reception by quoting from the declaration of independence of the United States of America back in 1776 and the French Republic in 1791. Both declarations accentuated the aspects of Equality, Liberty and Humanity. 

 “Men are born and remain free and equal in rights.” 

The Independence of Vietnam in September 1945 was along similar lines, as written by the founding father, President Ho Chi Minh.

The Ambassador of Indonesia H.E. Mr. Mayerfas and spouse Mme. Virna Mayerfas, Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ambassador of Vietnam, H.E. Mr. Pham Viet Anh and spouse Mrs. Le Thi Hien Anh, the Ambassador of the Philippines, H.E. Eduardo Jose Malaya and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Chatri Archjananun.

Vietnam has come a long way and is a dynamic and developing country doing well. Its education system ranks among the best in the world. Vietnam progressed in mathematics and IT.  85-90% of young people can speak English.

Ambassador Pham Viet Anh, in his welcoming remarks, thanked all for coming to celebrate Vietnam Nation Day with him. In part, this is what he went on to say. “The first two paragraphs of the Declaration of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. As written and proclaimed solemnly by our President Ho Chi Minh on September 2, 1945, in Ha Noi, which marked the end of more than 8 decades of miserable colonization in Viet Nam. It is not by chance that President Ho Chi Minh quoted the two famous declarations of the United States and France. The reason is simple as life: He found there the fundamental values of Humanity that we have long been deprived of.

Vietnam 77th Anniversary, September 2022.

This historic moment turned Vietnam into the era of independence and on the way of integration with the world. It brought our nation the happiness and strong hope for freedom, humanity and friendship with all peoples.

However, the peace was too fragile. Just one year later, we were dragged into another long colonial rule. In 1954, our glorious victory with the well-known Dien Bien Phu Campaign ended 9 years of arduous struggle and heroic resistance war of the Vietnamese people.

But our joy of triumph, again, was temporary: the country was separated north and south for another 20 years. Our strong aspirations for peace motivated the whole nation to fight for noble values, among those are sovereignty and independence. The successful Ho Chi Minh Campaign marked the end of the war on April 30th, 1975, paving the way for an unified Vietnam.

The Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Mr Hidehisa Horinouchi and Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, explore a Vietnamese musical instrument.

The young Vietnam just walked out of wars, suffering from entrenched poverty, underdevelopment, and dealing with persistent hardships. I myself grew up in the shadow of the bomb in Hanoi and in many country sides. The memories of those dark days are still vivid, reminding me and many other Vietnamese how precious peace is and how hard we were fighting for it.

Rising from the ashes of war, Vietnam today proudly has become a dynamic and developing country, as well as an active and responsible member of international community, contributing to peace, security and development of the world. The World Bank once stated: “Vietnam is a success story.” And we’re proud it’s true. Between 2002 and 2020, our GDP per capita increased 3.6 time. The poverty rate fell from more than 32% in 2011 to less than 2% in 2020. Vietnam’s economy has shown considerable resilience during crisis, most recently the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka, H.E. Ms. Aruni Ranaraja, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Dr. Alireza Khazemi Abadi and the Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro.

Our achievements are partly thanks to the precious and generous support of friends around the world, who also share the values of peace and justice. The Dutch people and government are among our precious supporters. As early as in 1968, the Medical Commitee Netherlands-Vietnam (MCNV) was established, collecting medicines, materials and money to build a hospital in Quang Tri, locating very close to the demarcation line. In those days, under the incessant bombing there, the talented Dutch documentary filmmaker Joris Evens was present to capture the fierce and tragic images of the war, including the suffering of innocent Vietnamese people.

We can say friendship between the Dutch and Vietnamese peoples was made long before the official establishment of diplomatic relations. It reminds me of the famous quote by Blaise Pascal:

“The heart has its reasons which reason knows nothing of” or “l’amour a des raisons que la raison ne connait pas”.

H.E. Mr. Marc Anthony Pace, Ambassador of the Republic of Malta and H.E. Mr. Tigran Balayan, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia.

After establishing diplomatic relations, the Dutch government and people also lent us a helping hand in rebuilding the country, especially in the fields of agriculture, irrigation, education, health and infrastructure. As a result, the two countries became strategic partners in climate change adaptation and water management, sustainable agriculture and food security. Currently, the relationship between the two countries is a comprehensive partnership.

Vietnam Ambassador’s diplomatic team.

In addition, trade is also one of the promising areas between Vietnam and the Netherlands, especially after the EVFTA came into force. Now, the Netherlands ranked 8th of 140 countries and territories in the world and No.1 European investor in Vietnam with about 400 projects. The turnover of bilateral trade between Vietnam and the Netherlands in the first 6 months of the year reached more than $5 billion, up 26% compared to the same period in 2021. These are encouraging indicators for us to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.

The prouder we are of our important achievements, the more grateful we are for the valuable support and cooperation of all our friends around the world. Vietnam has always loved peace and justice, and has always wished to sincerely cooperate with all countries for a peaceful and prosperous world.

On this solemn occasion of Vietnam’s National Day, we would like to extend our good wishes and deep gratitude to the King and the Queen of the Netherlands, the Dutch government and people.”

H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Ambassador of Panama, H.E. Dr. Alvaro González Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay and the IOM Chief of Mission, Mr. Antonio Polosa.

The 2022  Vietnam National Day reception was well attended, among the attendees were persons from the business community, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, former Dutch diplomats, OPCW, IOM, President of the diaspora and Ambassadors-Diplomats from, Philippines, Kuwait, Armenia, Rwanda, Russia, Argentina, Belarus, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, Thailand, Iran, Pakistan, Japan, Malaysia, Malta, UK, Australia, Indonesia, South Africa, Peru, Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Yemen, Panama, and many more. Guests enjoyed presentations of colorful Vietnamese dances.

Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

A second speaker at the Vietnam 2022 National Day celebration was Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. Here are Dr. Karin Mössenlechner remarks.

”I am honored to address you at this festive occasion on the 77th anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Vietnam and the Netherlands have close bilateral relations. No wonder, given the remarkable similarities between our countries.

Like the Netherlands, Vietnam is country of water and rivers. We both are seafaring and trading nations, with open economies. Vietnam is the 2nd largest exporter of coffee in the world, the Netherlands – per capita – the 3rd coffee drinking nation. The Netherlands is the largest EU investor and the second largest EU trading partner of Vietnam. More than 100 Dutch companies are established in Vietnam.

H.E. Mr Pham Viet Anh and Mrs. Le Thi Hien Anh.

We have a Comprehensive Partnership Agreement with Water and Climate Change and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security as its main pillars; this provides a promising basis for expanding and deepening our co-operation with Vietnam.

Many projects have been launched in recent years, for example the HCMC flood protection project. Vietnam also invited us to jointly develop a human rights curriculum for the Ho Chi Minh Political Academy. And just two weeks ago a Dutch integrated mission regarding the Mekong Delta went to Vietnam with many stakeholders. In the Mekong Delta, the Netherland is offering its expertise on water, agriculture and logistics.

H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassador of Russia and spouse, Mrs. Natalia Shulgina.

At the same time, the Netherlands has much to learn from the dynamics, resilience and energy of Vietnam’s development, which together with its entrepreneurial spirit leads to unprecedented growth. Vietnam’s open economy, structural economic growth, multilateral positioning, and strategic location in ASEAN provides many opportunities for further cooperation.

Next year, in 2023, we will be celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the Netherlands. The year will be dedicated to strengthening our bilateral bond, between our governments, our businesses, our knowledge institutions and especially also between our people: for example through student exchanges and cultural activities. Culture builds bridges, creates mutual understanding and connects people, which is more needed than ever in these times.

Our embassies will play an important part in the organisation of the half centennial festivities. I am glad to inform you that at this very day our new ambassador in Hanoi, Kees van Baar, presented his credentials to President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, so he is all set to start. 

I look forward to our continuing cooperation in the future; may it be even more successful and closer than it is now!“

The celebration of the 77th Anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam has been a delight.

An information session for diplomats by the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration

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An information session for diplomats by the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration

Information session for diplomatic representatives on the activities of the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Hague, 15 September 2022. International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) organized a bilingual (English and French) information session for Diplomats. During the sessions, the courts provided a synopsis of their activities.

PCA Secretary General H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak

The following Ambassadors and diplomats attended the information sessions, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Kosovo, Myanmar, Kuwait and others. Also present are diplomats from Angola, Colombia, Croatia and many more.

Featuring on the program, an overview of the activities of the PCA, followed by a Q&A session in the Administrative Council Chamber, was presented by H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak, Secretary-General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The court handled 115 cases in 2021. When diplomacy fails, arbitration comes into play. Mr. Czepelak, among other subjects, talked about “The Host Country Agreement”.

“The Host Country Agreement” allows parties in dispute who are located in or near the host country to take full advantage of the flexibility and efficiency of PCA-administered proceedings in the territory of the host country.

The Host Country Agreements also provide wider benefits to the host country, neighbouring states, and parties in dispute: attracting arbitrations to the host country that would otherwise be conducted elsewhere; raising the international profile of the host country as an arbitral forum, just to mention a few.

The PCA has Host Country Agreements in force with Argentina, Chile, China (in relation to Hong Kong SAR), Costa Rica, Djibouti, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Mauritius, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Uruguay and Viet Nam. The PCA has concluded Host Country Agreements with a number of other countries whose entry into force is pending completion of constitutional procedures. The PCA also benefits from certain privileges and immunities in Austria “.

ICJ Registrar H.E. Mr. Philippe Gauthier

Next was an overview of the activities of the International Court of Justice ICJ., followed by a Q&A session in the Great Hall of Justice, presented by H.E. Mr Philippe Gautier, Registrar of the International Court of Justice. He explained the important position ICJ takes in guarding international justice and how the registrar supports the court.

There are 133 cases, 27 are consultative, and 15 cases are pending. Gautier also touched on the relationship between the court and the Carnegie Foundation. There is an agreement between the UN and the Carnegie Foundation as to renting the facility. Talking about relocating the court, yes, there is asbestos but there will be no relocation.

“The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations“. It was established in June 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations and began work in April 1946.

The Court’s role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized United Nations organs and specialized agencies.

The Court is composed of 15 judges, who are elected for terms of office of nine years by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council. It is assisted by a Registry, its administrative organ. Its official languages are English and French.

The Registry is the permanent administrative secretariat of the Court. It is accountable to the Court alone. It is headed by a Registrar, assisted by a Deputy-Registrar.

The Registrar is elected by the Court for a term of seven years and may be re-elected  The Registrar is responsible for all departments and divisions of the Registry “.

The successful information session concluded with a group photo and a reception in the entrance hall of the Peace Palace.


Four Central American Countries Celebrate Independence Day

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Four Central American Countries Celebrate Independence Day

By Roy Lie Atjam

It was on 15 September 1821 that four Central American countries – Costa Rica,  El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua(Honduras) obtained their Independence from Spain.

Over the next two centuries, each of these Central American countries would follow its own path of development. Nevertheless, they do face a number of shared challenges. Solidarity has become a rare concept, it’s heartening to see the solidarity and camaraderie these countries demonstrate by perpetuating the celebration of their independence together. Moreover, the Central American warmth, ambience, colours, and music took the event to a climax.

The Hague, 15 September 2022, Ambassadors of the four Central American countries,  Costa Rica, El Salvador,  Guatemala and Nicaragua –  celebrated National Day with a reception at the Leonardo Royal Hotel.

The Ambassador of Cosa Rica, H.E. Mr Arnoldo Brenes Castro.

With a rotating system in place, this year the Ambassador of Cosa Rica, H.E. Mr Arnoldo Brenes Castro, had the privilege of delivering the welcome remarks.

“On behalf of: the Ambassador of El Salvador, Her Excellency Carmen María Gallardo, the Ambassador of Guatemala, His Excellency Jorge Skinner Klé-Arenales, the Ambassador of Nicaragua, His Excellency Carlos Argüello and myself, Arnoldo Brenes, Ambassador of Costa Rica, I give you a warm welcome to the commemoration of our national day, the fifteen of September.

I have been honoured by my colleagues to give this welcoming remarks today, which I intend to keep short in the benefit of the enjoyment of our gastronomy and each other’s company. We highly value your presence here today, and more so as we are aware of the multiple commitments in your agendas.

This year we commemorate the two hundred and one anniversary of independence of the Central American Republics of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

As has already become a tradition in The Hague, our Embassies have joined their enthusiasm to organize a shared commemoration of this date.

All five Central American republics achieved our independence on the same date, 15 September 1821, and so it is only appropriate that we all celebrate it together. And to do so in the the city of peace and justice has a special meaning to us, because it allows us to renew the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the diplomatic community accredited here, as well as with the international organisations, which are so deeply relevant to our common goals of multilateralism and a rules-based international order.

This year we have been able to receive more guests than the previous year, as the world has started a new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, that allows us to reconnect through in-person events.

More than two centuries ago, five republics, located in the centre of the Americas started writing their own path as independent nations. Today, our countries are integrated into the international community, and they offer multiple opportunities but also share common challenges. To face common challenges, such as the multiple adverse effects of climate change, including extreme weather conditions, but also organized crime and narcotraffic, and the unstable economic and financial environment, we have confidence in the cooperation and partnership with our friends in the international community.

In terms of opportunities, we share a great strategic location which has allowed us to integrate into the global world, by means of a developed network of trade and investment agreements with multiple partners, including the European Union and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

We are a multi-ethnic and pluricultural region, with an outstanding nature and biodiversity, including its marine biodiversity, which we are committed to protect for the benefit of all.

Today our Embassies are delighted to offer you varied sample of our gastronomy as a token of our friendship and appreciation. We invite you to take with you the flavours our region has to offer, and hope you enjoy it. We thank you once again for being here today.”

Central America Republics’ Independence.

Many ambassadors, VIPs, Dutch business representatives, and Internationals came to felicitate the four Central American Ambassadors on this momentous day. Among them were the Ambassadors of Brazil, Kosovo, Malta, Belarus, South Africa, IOM, OPCW and others. Guest were treated on a buffet lunch of typical dishes from the different countries.

It really has been a delightful afternoon!

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Photography August Zeidman

Celebrating Armenia’s 31st Independence Anniversary in the Netherlands and Armenia’s Science and Technology Contributions

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Celebrating Armenia’s 31st Independence Anniversary in the Netherlands and Armenia’s Science and Technology Contributions

By Dr. Lorenca Bejko

The 31st anniversary of Armenia’s independence was commemorated with a series of events in the Netherlands, organized by the Embassy of Armenia and the King’s Commissioner in the province of Drenthe.

The day began with a visit to Frederiksoord village, where the Governor of Drenthe, Ms. Jetta Klijnsma, welcomed over 40 ambassadors, representatives of international organizations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and journalists  and guided them through historical sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The group then moved to Assen, where they visited the exhibition “Under the Spell of Ararat: The Treasures of Ancient Armenia” at the Drents Museum.

A reception dedicated to the National Day of Armenia followed, with H.E. Ambassador Tigran Balayan delivering a speech that highlighted the challenges faced by Armenia, including Azerbaijan’s aggression and the need for international support.

Mr. Harry Tupan, Director of the Museum of Drenthe,
Mr. Harry Tupan, Director of the Museum of Drenthe and the Ambassador of Armenia, H.E. Mr. Tigran Balayan.

The ambassador also mentioned the strengthening of Armenian-Dutch relations, including the visit of the Armenian Prime Minister to the Netherlands and the implementation of agreements reached during the visit. The day ended with an awarding ceremony, where the Governor was presented with the Medal of Honor of the Embassy, the Director of the Museum, Mr. Harry Tupan, received the Gold Medal of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport, and Mr. Nikolay Romashuk-Hayrapetyan was awarded the Medal of Honor of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia for his contribution to the organization of the exhibition and the promotion of Armenian Culture in the Netherland.

Mr. Nikolay Romashuk-Hayrapetyan, Ms. Jetta Klijnsma and Mr. Harry Tupan.

The Ambassador Tigran Balayan’s welcoming remarks at the celebration of the 31st anniversary of Armenia’s Independence in the Netherlands highlighted the importance of the event and expressed gratitude to the King’s Commissioner in the province of Drenthe and the Governor of Drenthe for their hospitality.

The Ambassador noted that the last time a group of Ambassadors visited Drenthe was in 2009 and expressed excitement about the opportunity to gather in the premises of the famous Drents Museum.

H.E. Mr. Tigran Balayan, Ambassador of Armenia.

The Ambassador also acknowledged the challenges faced by Armenia, including the military aggression in violation of international law and order, and emphasized the need for solidarity and assistance in defending the country against autocracy. The Ambassador highlighted the importance of the year 2022 in terms of Armenia’s bilateral relations with the Netherlands, including the visit of Armenia’s Prime-Minister in May and the implementation of agreements reached during the visit. The Ambassador concluded by thanking everyone for sharing this important day with them.

Armenian musicians at Drenthe Museum.

Armenia has a long history of science and technology, especially during its time as part of the Soviet Union.

Armenia’s 1991 separation from the Soviet Socialist Republics caused temporary scientific and economic isolation, including cancelled computer orders and a lack of access to cutting-edge scientific research.

It was the USSR’s “Silicon Valley,” producing computers for all other republics while also housing thriving advanced institutes in physics, chemistry, biology, astrophysics, and computational science, among other fields.

Ambassadors visiting the exhibition “Under the Spell of Ararat: The Treasures of Ancient Armenia” at the Drents Museum.

Armenia had the largest electron accelerator in the USSR, competing with accelerators at some of the world’s leading institutions, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the US and Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) in Germany.

The events enabled the Armenian community in the Netherlands to celebrate their country’s independence and rich history, raise awareness about Armenia’s contributions to science and technology, and promote cultural exchange between Armenia and the Netherlands.

Museum Panorama Mesdag presents a major retrospective of artist Suze Robertson’s work

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Museum Panorama Mesdag presents a major retrospective of artist Suze Robertson’s work

Suze Robertson. Dedicated. Individualistic. Modern.

In honour of the 100th anniversary of her death, a major retrospective on The Hague-based artist Suze Robertson (1855-1922) is set to open in Museum Panorama Mesdag on 24 September. This will mark the first time in forty years that so many of her paintings and drawings – including many obscure works – have been brought together from museums and private collections for display to the public. Based on groundbreaking new research into her work, studio practice and life, this exhibition presents the most comprehensive portrait possible of this undeservedly forgotten artist. 

A radical innovator

Suze Robertson was and is considered one of the great artists of her time and a radical innovator. As one of the first women to become a professional artist in the Netherlands, both her artistic convictions and her lifestyle challenged the prevailing notions of her era in terms of what was typically feminine. Determined to succeed, she devoted nearly four decades to a self-aware and unshakeable quest to build an oeuvre in which every element bears her unmistakeable visual signature. 

Suze Robertson / Museum Panorama Mesdag

‘Suze Robertson’s paintings of housekeeper Pietje Prins, set against a gold-leaf background, are among her most iconic works. There is something mysterious and majestic about them: viewed through Robertson’s artistic lens, the housekeeper from Leur becomes an earthly Madonna. But few people are aware that three versions of this composition exist. The complete series is on display in this exhibition – a unique occurrence,’ according to Suzanne Veldink, guest curator at Museum Panorama Mesdag. 

Herald of expressionism

Through her expressive manner of drawing and painting, Robertson elevated art to new heights at the dawn of the twentieth century. The virtuosity with which she applied her media evinces a deeply driven character. In her work, line and colour are no longer merely in service to the goal of depicting the visible world as faithfully as possible, but have themselves become a means of conveying emotion. Robertson’s personal quest ushered in the end of the impressionism favoured by The Hague School and established her position as a pioneer of modern art in the Netherlands: a herald of expressionism. 

Suze Robertson / Museum Panorama Mesdag

Museum director Minke Schat: ‘Museum Panorama Mesdag has a special connection to Suze Robertson and her art. The founders of the museum – Hendrik Willem Mesdag and Sientje Mesdag-van Houten – were friends of hers. They collected her work and they, too, exhibited Suze Robertson’s art in the museum in their own day. We feel confident that this exhibition and the accompanying publication will ensure that, one hundred years after her death, Robertson is given her rightful place in the art historical canon of the Netherlands. It’s about time.’

Exhibtion

The exhibition Suze Robertson. Dedicated. Individualistic. Modern. will be on display from 24.09.2022 through 05.03.2023 in Museum Panorama Mesdag in The Hague. 

Central America Nations Celebrated Independence Day

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Central America Nations Celebrated Independence Day

September 15 is a very important date in the Central American nations of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica: it is the date on which all five of these nations declared their independence from the Spanish Empire in 1821. Now, 201 years later, the diplomatic corps came together on this day to celebrate independence, national food and culture, and the general revelry that such a holiday merits.

The Ambassadors of Nicaragua, H.E. Mr. Carlos Jose Arguello Gomez, of Guatemala, H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales, of El Salvador, H.E. Ms. Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernandez, and of Costa Rica H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro.

The Ambassadors of Nicaragua, H.E. Mr. Carlos Jose Arguello Gomez, of Guatemala, H.E. Mr. Jorge Skinner-Klee Arenales, of El Salvador, H.E. Ms. Carmen Maria Gallardo Hernandez, and of Costa Rica H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro were all in attendance and welcomed their esteemed guests to the celebration in the Leonardo Royal Hotel Den Haag.

The co-hosting the National Day celebration has become a tradition in The Hague and many may remember past editions. This collaboration is a fitting reflection of shared heritage and the influence of diplomacy in a time when it is important to find reasons to bring people together.

Ambassador Brenes Castro, speaking on behalf of all his colleagues, offered brief welcoming remarks to the attendees, thanking them for their presence, as well as urging all to enjoy the celebration with good food and good company. He stressed the symbolic importance of hosting the event in the Hague as a way to renew the bonds of friendship with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and other members of the diplomatic community and their shared values in multilateralism.

Finally, he spoke warmly about the international community and how, even though the republics of Central America share certain challenges related to the effects of climate change, organized crime, and others, it is through the partners and friends on the world stage who will help bring things to pass.
           

Central America Republics’ Independence.

Each of the four republics hosted a table at the event where attendees could sample a tasty variety of national flavours. The event was lively, the atmosphere was joyous, and the whole world joins in celebrating 201 years of Central American independence.

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Photography August Zeidman.

Eurojust and ICC Prosecutor launch practical guidelines for documenting and preserving information on international crimes

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Eurojust and ICC Prosecutor launch practical guidelines for documenting and preserving information on international crimes

The Hague 21 September 2022

Eurojust and the Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have today published practical guidelines for civil society organisations on documenting core international crimes, such as war crimes and crimes against humanity. This will empower as well as support civil society organisations that seek to collect and preserve information to contribute to investigations and prosecutions at the national level or before the ICC. The guidelines aim to assist in fighting impunity and have been drawn up building on the expertise of the Office of the Prosecutor at the ICC, Eurojust, the Genocide Network, civil society organisations, national prosecutors and international partners.

Eurojust President Mr Ladislav Hamran said: ‘With the war in Ukraine, peace and justice are under the most severe pressure, and accountability for core international crimes and violations of human rights is more than ever essential for international criminal justice. These guidelines will be a key building block in efforts of authorities and civil society organisations to collect and preserve information and evidence that may become admissible in court. With this joint effort of Eurojust and the Office of the Prosecutor at the ICC we provide practical assistance to get justice done.’

Mr Karim A.A. Khan KC, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, stated: ‘Civil society organisations are critical partners in our common goal to achieve accountability for international crimes.  Now more than ever we must work together to strengthen our common work towards justice. Through this publication, we also seek to highlight how we can work together more effectively to protect the most vulnerable when engaging in documentation efforts.  This is particularly important in situations involving crimes against children or victims of sexual abuse. It is my hope this document can serve as a basis for deepening this dialogue together.’

This publication responds to requests from many different organisations asking for clearer guidance on effective documentation approaches that can be supportive to action before national and international courts. Importantly, these guidelines seek to protect the most vulnerable when engaging in documentation efforts. They emphasise in particular the importance of ensuring persons are not interviewed several times. This can not only affect their safety and well-being, but also compromise their willingness to contribute to accountability processes by sharing their testimonies. In line with this goal, the guidelines contain advice on key areas, including:

  • Approaching vulnerable persons,
  • Taking a person’s account, photographs and videos,
  • Dealing with documents, digital information and physical items,
  • Storing, safeguarding and analysing collected information.

To assist their use in the field, the guidelines also contain a checklist setting out the core principles and practical steps that can be followed.

Building on extensive good practice tools developed by civil society organisations in the past, the guidelines are intended to be a living tool to be further developed as collective experience grows over time. Civil society organisations who wish to use these guidelines as part of their documentation practices are invited to share their further input and questions in order to develop a continual two-way dialogue that will ultimately strengthen our collective work.

Reflecting this intention, an online technical briefing for civil society organisations will be held on 6 October 2022, to be followed by a broader dissemination campaign in the coming months.  The guidelines will also be used as a framework for discussion of dedicated sessions of the upcoming first session of ICC-OTP NGO Thematic Roundtable, addressing the issue of crimes against children.

“Guidelines for Civil Society Organisations on documentation of International Crimes and Human Rights Violations”

Action against Italian mafia in Spain

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Action against Italian mafia in Spain

Supported by Eurojust and Europol, authorities in Spain and Italy have taken action against two organised crime groups (OCGs) with suspected links to the ‘Ndrangheta mafia and allegedly involved in drug trafficking, money laundering and extortion. The OGCs operated in Italy (Milan area) and Spain (Ibiza).

In an action carried out in Spain, 32 suspects were arrested and a total of 40 places were searched across Ibiza, Barcelona, Malaga and Tenerife. Furthermore, EUR 300.000 in cash, 18 kilograms of amphetamine and 4.5 kilograms of cocaine were seized, as well as firearms and ammunition. Also, during the operation a cannabis plantation with 600 plants was dismantled.  

The investigation in Italy focused on a mafia-type criminal organisation based in Milan that also operated in Ibiza. The head of the OCG is assumed to be related to the boss of one of the most powerful Calabrian ‘Ndrangheta families. The OCG is allegedly involved in extortion, drug trafficking and money laundering, through many economic activities, and linked also with the Sicilian Cosa Nostra mafia.

It is believed that the OCG was able to fully exert its power on the territory of Ibiza according to the mafia modalities and patterns that normally are exercised only in Italy.

In Spain, the investigation focused on an OCG involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. The suspects allegedly used sailing boats to import large quantities of cocaine from South America to be sold in Ibiza. The criminal network also ran several businesses in Ibiza to mask their illegal activities, including real estate businesses and rental apartments for tourists.

Thanks to the information provided by Italian authorities, it was established that two members of the OCG who had settled in Ibiza allegedly belong to the ‘Ndrangheta family and are involved in committing extortion in Ibiza to the detriment of local businessmen.

The case was opened at Eurojust by the Italian authorities in April 2022. The Agency hosted two coordination meetings to facilitate judicial cooperation and provide support for the coordinated investigative efforts, including the organisation of an action day in Spain.

Europol supported this investigation by providing tailored expertise and extensive analysis support and facilitating the exchange of information through its secure channels. During the live phase of the operation, a Europol mobile office was deployed to Spain to facilitate the real-time exchange of information.

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 Eurojust is co-leader with Europol.

EMPACT tackles the most important threats posed by organised and serious international crime affecting the European Union. EMPACT strengthens intelligence, strategic and operational cooperation between national authorities, EU institutions and bodies, and international partners. EMPACT runs in four-year cycles focusing on common EU crime priorities. Fraud, economic and financial crimes are among the priorities for the 2021-2025 Policy Cycle.

The following authorities took part in the investigation:

•  Spain: Court of the First Instance No. 3 of Ibiza (Juzgado de Instrucción 3 de Ibiza); Balearic Superior Court (Fiscalía Superior de Baleares); the Civil Guard (Guardia Civil)

•   Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office of Milan (Procura della Repubblica Milano)

ICC judges agree on reforms in response to Independent Expert Review at annual retreat

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ICC judges agree on reforms in response to Independent Expert Review at annual retreat

From 15-18 September 2022, the judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) held their annual judicial retreat at the Siracusa International Institute for Criminal Justice and Human Rights, with the support of the Italian government. The retreat concentrated on proposals developed by the judges in response to the Report of the Independent Expert Review conducted in 2020 (“IER Report”), and on related proposals, focussing in particular on the recommendations concerning victims’ participation and the reparations process.

At the retreat, the judges acknowledged that victims’ participation and reparations constitute one of the key aspects of the Rome Statute. The judges discussed at length the participation of victims at the initial stages of proceedings. It was agreed that at the preliminary examination and investigation stage, victims should be encouraged to present views and concerns directly to the Office of the Prosecutor, although this is without prejudice to their participation in judicial proceedings at early stages when judicial intervention becomes necessary.

The judges highlighted the manner in which recent innovations already incorporated into the Chambers Practice Manual, such as the adoption of a model for the decision on the ‘Directions for the Conduct of Proceedings’ and the use of the ‘A-B-C Approach’ for considering applications for victims participation are already functioning to enhance efficiency and consistency. The judges further agreed that a working group of judges would continue working on victims’ participation and reparations.

The judges also continued their ongoing discussion on ensuring accountability for ethical conduct and improving the working conditions of staff members in the judiciary. Reflecting upon an evaluation of working conditions in the judiciary completed by the Independent Oversight Mechanism in July 2022, the judges agreed to establish an informal mechanism, within the judiciary, by which staff members may seek assistance from judges to informally address any concerns as to discrimination, harassment, including sexual harassment, and abuse of authority by judges. Such informal mechanism supplements the available Court-wide formal and informal mechanisms. The judges of the Court also agreed to amend the Code of Judicial Ethics to provide that the Court’s Administrative Instruction on Investigations of Unsatisfactory Conduct and the Administrative Instruction on Addressing Discrimination, Harassment, Including Sexual Harassment, and Abuse of Authority apply to judges, thus enhancing transparency, accountability and the application of consistent principles, procedures and obligations to all categories of persons working at the Court.

The judges also adopted three fundamental principles concerning the decision confirming the charges, which will facilitate drafting and the efficient transition of cases from the pre-trial stage to the trial stage. 

During their stay at the Siracusa International Institute, the judges of the Court participated in a ceremony to honour the Institute’s fiftieth anniversary, with the President of the Court, Judge Piotr Hofmański,

The Embassy of Ireland and the Trust Fund for Victims conclude a joint monitoring visit

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The Embassy of Ireland and the Trust Fund for Victims conclude a joint monitoring visit

The Embassy of Ireland and the Trust Fund for Victims conclude a joint monitoring visit to northern Uganda between 13 – 17 September 2022

From 13 – 17 September 2022, the Embassy of Ireland to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) at the International Criminal Court (ICC), with the assistance of the Embassy of Ireland to Uganda, led a joint monitoring visit to northern Uganda.

The objective of the monitoring visit was to provide delegates with the opportunity to witness first-hand the transformative work of the TFV in northern Uganda, focusing on the lasting impact of the conflict and the individuals and communities affected by the many atrocities committed. Delegates on the visit hoped to gain insight into reparation implementation programmes and hear directly victims’ experiences of court-ordered reparation programme in the Lubanga and the Katanga case in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Honourable Norbert Mao, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of Uganda said, “Although the guns have gone silent, the wounds are still deep”. He added, “We highly appreciate this important monitoring visit with so many delegates and we are certain that they will bring back great impressions of Uganda after their personal interactions with the victims of the LRA. It has become apparent that mental health is very important to be addressed. We have to ensure that psychosomatic services among others are continued as some victims will require this assistance to lead a normal life. The work of the Trust Fund for Victims is of utmost important to the thousands of victims in northern Uganda and we hope that the assistance will be prolonged. Without the assistance of the Government of Ireland, this visit would have not been possible, and we shall welcome you again, any time. “

The Chair of the TFV Board of Directors, Minou Tavarez Mirabal, said, “Medical treatment, trauma counselling and livelihood support are life changing services that afford recognition and a form of justice to victims of Rome Statute crimes and redress for the harm they have suffered. The TFV calls for collective efforts to restoring hope, transforming lives and achieving long-term reparative justice for victims”, she added.

Speaking on Ireland’s hopes for the visit and support of the TFV’s work, H.E. Ambassador Brendan Rogers of Ireland to the Netherlands said: “This visit is the bridge between The Hague and the field. Delegates are now better informed and have seen with their own eyes the impact of the work of the TFV on the ground. We now have a family of supporters of the Fund that can take that support back to The Hague and beyond.”

Participating delegates came to better understand the deeply rooted harm persisting in northern Uganda sixteen years after the LRA conflict and the need to redress this harm. Beneficiaries of the programme called upon the delegates to provide reparative measures more broadly to the victims, their children and communities. Delegates committed to advocate for increased international awareness and support in order to allow the TFV to continue its programmes in northern Uganda, complementing the efforts of the Government of Uganda.

Recalling the commitment to victims and affected communities of atrocity crimes, President of the Assembly of States Parties, Silvia Fernandez de Gurmendi, called on States Parties of the Rome Statute to step up providing support to victims. “States Parties should cooperate with the ICC in order to ensure perpetrators of crimes are brought to justice, and the rights and needs of victim survivors are addressed. During my mandate I will do my utmost to promote the important work of the Trust Fund for victims”.

Fourteen States participated in the monitoring visit this year, including the President of the Assembly of the States Parties, and representatives from the governments of Australia, Belgium, Chile, Estonia, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Netherlands, New Zealand, Switzerland, Tanzania, Uganda, United States, and the European Union. Also, Legal Representatives of Victims in the Ongwen case and civil society organisations participated in the visit.

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