Portuguese Food Festival at Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Portuguese Food Festival at Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague

The Embassy of Portugal, the Portugal Tourism Office in the Netherlands, Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague, and Diplomat Magazine are pleased to present an authentic Portuguese Food Festival during two exclusive dinner evenings on Thursday 11 June and Friday 12 June.

This special culinary experience will feature renowned guest Chef Rui Lima Santos, who will present a carefully curated menu showcasing some of Portugal’s most beloved dishes, paired with exceptional Portuguese wines.

Guests will have the opportunity to discover authentic flavors through specialties such as Bacalhau à Brás (Portugal’s iconic codfish dish), Octopus Salad with Onions and Cornbread, and the acclaimed Esporão Reserva Tinto, among other gastronomic delights.

According to H.E. Clara Nunes dos Santos, Ambassador of Portugal to the Netherlands, the festival forms part of Portugal’s efforts to promote and showcase the country, its gastronomy, and its rich cultural heritage. “It is part of promoting and publicizing Portugal and our rich Portuguese culture,” the Ambassador said.

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating Portuguese culture, hospitality, and cuisine in the company of diplomats, business leaders, members of the international community, and food enthusiasts.

The Portugal Food Festival is part of LEO’S International Flavors, a unique culinary concept in which complete menus are inspired by cuisines from around the world. For each edition, a chef selected by the participating embassy travels to The Hague and works alongside the Leonardo Royal Hotel culinary team for several days, sourcing ingredients and creating an authentic menu that reflects the traditions and flavors of their country.

During each Food Festival, the guest chef collaborates closely with Chef Sido de Brabander and the Leonardo Royal Hotel team to create a special dining experience filled with authentic flavors. The most successful dishes are then considered for inclusion on the hotel’s regular menu, allowing guests to continue enjoying these international culinary discoveries long after the festival has ended.

Reservations:

https://www.leosinternationalflavors.com/the-hague or by Phone: +31 070 352

5161

Zikaron BaSalon: Keeping Holocaust Remembrance Alive Through Personal Stories

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Zikaron BaSalon: Keeping Holocaust Remembrance Alive Through Personal Stories

The Ambassador of the State of Israel to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Zvi Aviram Vapni, hosted a Zikaron BaSalon commemoration at his residence, attended by ambassadors, members of parliament, representatives of various organizations, and friends of Israel who gathered to reflect on personal histories and collective memory.

Zikaron BaSalon, meaning “Remembrance in the Living Room,” was founded in Jerusalem in 2011 with the aim of creating a more intimate and meaningful form of Holocaust remembrance. By bringing Holocaust testimonies into homes and small gatherings, the initiative encourages open dialogue and personal engagement with history.

Ellen Roos Brucker and the ambassador of Israel to the Netherlands, H.E. Zvi Vapni.

The evening featured the testimony of Ellen Roos Brucker, daughter of Holocaust survivors, who shared the remarkable story of her parents’ survival during the Second World War. Separated during the Holocaust, they were reunited after liberation and went on to rebuild their lives and raise a family.

“In this dignified and intimate setting, we honour the memory of the victims of the Nazi regime and reaffirm our shared commitment to preserving their stories and passing them on to future generations,” Ambassador Vapni said.

Reflecting on the origins of the initiative, the Ambassador emphasized the need to find new ways of remembering the Holocaust as the number of living survivors continues to decline.

Ellen Roos Brucker

“This initiative began with a simple idea: how can we add another layer to Holocaust remembrance? Survivors are becoming fewer every year, and the Holocaust is moving further away in time. We must find new ways to keep these stories alive,” he noted.

The concept behind Zikaron BaSalon is to create an informal environment where participants can listen to survivors or their descendants, ask questions, view photographs, and engage in meaningful conversations about memory and history.

Since its establishment, the initiative has grown into a global movement. Today, more than two million people worldwide participate in Zikaron BaSalon events, held in private homes, community centres, educational institutions, and diplomatic missions.

Pictures and graphic souvenirs of Ellen Roos Brucker’s family.

Ambassador Vapni also highlighted the important role of the second generation in preserving Holocaust memory.

“Many survivors found it difficult to speak openly about their experiences. Their children grew up carrying the weight of stories that were often only partially told. As fewer survivors remain with us, the responsibility of remembrance increasingly rests with the next generations,” he said.

Ms. Brocker’s testimony offered a poignant example of that responsibility. Through her parents’ experiences and her own recollections, she demonstrated how personal stories continue to connect present and future generations with one of history’s darkest chapters.

The commemoration concluded with a shared commitment to ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust remain relevant and that the memories of its victims and survivors continue to be preserved for generations to come.

Ambassador Shino Mitsuko received at the Bavarian State Chancellery

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Ambassador Shino Mitsuko received at the Bavarian State Chancellery

Tuesday, 19 May 2025, Munich, Free State of Bavaria, Germany: Minister of State, Dr. Florian Herrmann received the Ambassador of Japan, Shino Mitsuko, for talks at the State Chancellery. She was accompanied by the Nipponese General Consul in Bavaria, Bessho Kenichi. 

Minister of State Dr. Florian Herrmann: “Bavaria and Japan share a close partnership—economically, politically, and culturally. Around 8,400 Japanese nationals live in the Free State; 14 town twinning agreements and over 150 university partnerships bear witness to this strong spirit of cooperation. Together, we are shaping the future through close collaboration in the technology sector, as well as in science and research.”

Ambassador Shino was born on 24 July 1963 and has served as Japan’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Germany since 22 November 2024, capping a diplomatic career spanning nearly four decades and three continents.

Dr. Florian Herrmann receives Ambassador Shino Mitsuko Picture by Bayerische Staatskanzlei.

A graduate of Hitotsubashi University, Shino joined Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in April 1987. Her early postings took her across Europe, beginning with a position as First Secretary at the Japanese Embassy in Germany in 2000, followed by a similar role in Poland in 2003, where she was promoted to Counsellor the following year. Returning to Tokyo in 2006, she took on responsibilities in economic diplomacy as Senior Coordinator in the Economic Partnership Division and Director of the APEC Division, before heading the ministry’s Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs Division in 2008.

The next decade saw her rise through a series of senior diplomatic posts. She served at the Japanese Embassy in Italy, first as Counsellor from 2010 and then as Minister from 2013, before receiving her first ambassadorial appointment in 2014 as Japan’s Ambassador to Iceland. In 2016, she moved to Geneva as Ambassador to Japan’s Permanent Mission, and in 2018, returned to Tokyo as Deputy Press Secretary at MOFA.

Shino’s profile rose further in 2019, when she was named Assistant Minister and Director-General for Cultural Affairs, as well as Ambassador in charge of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In 2021, she became Chief of Protocol with ambassadorial rank, and in 2022, she was appointed Deputy Permanent Representative at Japan’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, before taking up her current role in Berlin.

Ambassador Shino is fluent in Japanese, English, German, and French. She is married and has two children.

For further information 

Bavarian State Chancellery: https://www.bayern.de/buergerservice/mediathek/?kat=%5B3%2C2%5D&pagi=1&maxpagi=613&sb=Mitsuko+Shino&d1=Datum+von&d2=Datum+bis&filter_fotos=on&filter_videos=on#

Embassy of Japan in Germany: https://www.de.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_de/index.html

Consulate General of Japan in Bavaria: https://www.muenchen.de.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_de/gk_grusswort.html

Philippines Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa Ma.Lazaro visits The Netherlands

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Philippines Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa Ma.Lazaro visits The Netherlands

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Embassy of the Philippines proudly hosted a “Meet and Greet Cocktail Reception” in celebration of H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro‘s visit, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, on May 18. This historic occasion not only honored her visit but also marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Netherlands.

This visit is particularly significant, as it is the first official visit by a Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs to the Netherlands in 33 years—since Secretary Roberto Romulo’s visit in 1993. Secretary Lazaro engaged in important discussions with the Netherlands Foreign Minister, Mr. Tom Berendsen, at the distinguished Johan de Witt House, dating back to 1655, in The Hague. Both Ministers pledged to enhance the regularity of high-level political and economic exchanges, specifically through bilateral consultations.

ASEAN They discussed key topics such as technology, transnational crime, and other vital issues that will fortify cooperation. Their commitment to deepen collaboration on water management and bolster supply chain resilience promises substantial benefits for both nations. A wide range of subjects was thoroughly discussed, paving the way for a brighter future together.

Ambassador Malaya and Philippines Embassy staff with Minister Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.
H.E. Mr. Eduardo Malaya, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Netherlands presenting a souvenir to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.

The discussions featured the Ambassador of the Philippines in the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Eduardo Malaya, along with various stakeholders. With the Philippines assuming the chairmanship of ASEAN this year, both parties recognized the Netherlands’ proactive involvement in ASEAN initiatives.

In addition, the two Ministers seized the opportunity to address the global ramifications of security challenges emerging in Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. Following the constructive dialogue, a joint statement was released, underscoring their shared commitments.

H.E. Mr. Eduardo Malaya, Ambassador of the Philippines.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Malaya expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s an honor to welcome everyone to the Embassy of the Philippines for this special reception honoring the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro. It’s a significant moment for any ambassador to host a head of state or Foreign Minister. Moreover, we gather to celebrate the remarkable 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Netherlands.”

The Ambassador went on to say, “this reception being the last engagement of the Secretary for this trip, I can say that the Visit has been highly successful, with the Secretary having had a substantive meeting with Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen, an important Joint Statement issued that sets out the strategic direction for cooperation, and a well-received address at a forum at the prestigious Clingendael Institute, among others. Our reception tonight nicely caps off the Secretary’s highly productive day in The Hague. This is the cherry on top, so to speak.

H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines during her speech at the embassy in The Hague.

Madame Secretary, the Embassy team and I wish to convey how truly grateful we are for taking time in your very busy – being also the Chair of the ASEAN Ministerial Meetings, among others– to visit the Netherlands.

If the Embassy team and I have been able to deliver in some ways in carrying out our mission.

it is because we have close collaborators and steadfast partners in undertaking our work.

A great part of our accomplishments, we owe to many of the people gathered here tonight.

Once again, welcome Madame Secretary and the delegation and our partners and friends in the business and Filipino communities. Together, let us continue working toward a future marked by greater prosperity and enduring partnership between the Philippines and the Netherlands.”

Mabuhay po kayong lahat! Thank you, dank u wel, maraming salamat.

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, confidently addressed the gathering, expressing her deep admiration for the significant achievements made and underscoring the critical importance of her visit. Joining her were two other speakers joined her: former Dutch Ambassador Saskia de Lange and Ms. Jofelle Tesorio.  As a token of appreciation, the Embassy presented Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro with a personalized Delft blue tile that prominently features her official portrait. The event concluded with an engaging reception on the lawns of the chancellery, complete with cocktails, live music, and ample opportunities for productive networking.

Regulating the Unregulatable? Cyber Warfare Treaties and the Breakdown of Traditional Arms Control Logic 

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Regulating the Unregulatable? Cyber Warfare Treaties and the Breakdown of Traditional Arms Control Logic 

By Ayya Sheptukhina

The development of an international treaty regulating cyber warfare raises a fundamental challenge for international law: whether existing arms control models, particularly those governing nuclear weapons, can be adapted to cyberspace. Recent developments, including the adoption of a United Nations Convention against Cybercrime in 2024 and the establishment of a permanent UN cybersecurity mechanism in 2025, suggest increasing institutionalisation. However, these developments do not overcome the structural differences between nuclear and cyber domains. While nuclear arms control is built on material scarcity, state monopoly, and verification, cyber governance is shaped by intangibility, diffuse power, and persistent uncertainty. These differences fundamentally constrain the design and effectiveness of any cyber warfare treaty.

Nuclear arms control regimes are grounded in the materiality and scarcity of weapons. Nuclear weapons are finite, capital-intensive, and controlled by states, enabling legal frameworks focused on non-proliferation and disarmament. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) remains the fundamental apparatus of this system (Aboul-Enein, 2017, p.3). Although the regime suffers from a legal gap due to the absence of binding timelines for disarmament (Aboul-Enein, 2017, pp.4–5), it has developed into an extensive treaty-based architecture (Finaud, 2020, pp.1–2). Yet its stability is increasingly fragile. Persistent divisions between nuclear-weapon states (NWS) and non-nuclear-weapon states (NNWS) continue to impede progress (Jaramillo, 2022, pp.2–3), and the expiration of the New START Treaty in February 2026 removed the last binding constraint on major nuclear arsenals (U.S. Department of State, 2026).

By contrast, cyberspace presents a fundamentally different regulatory object. Cyber capabilities are intangible, dual-use, and widely accessible, with low barriers to entry for both states and non-state actors. As Hughes (2010, pp.523–524) demonstrates, individuals and non-state groups can conduct disruptive operations at relatively low cost. These characteristics undermine traditional arms control logic: cyber capabilities cannot be meaningfully counted, limited, or eliminated. Regulation must therefore focus on conduct rather than capability.

The evolution of cyber governance reflects both progress and limitation. Mačák (2016, p.127) characterises the field as being in a state of “crisis,” marked by failed treaty-making, limited state practice, and reliance on non-binding norms. While this diagnosis remains analytically useful, recent developments complicate it. The United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, adopted in 2024 and opened for signature in 2025, represents the first global legally binding instrument in this domain (United Nations, 2024; United Nations, 2025a). The establishment of a permanent UN cybersecurity mechanism further signals a shift toward institutional continuity (United Nations, 2025b).

At the same time, there are emerging signs of gradual development in customary international law. Between 2024 and 2026, the international legal landscape matured as a growing number of states and regional bodies articulated formal positions on the application of international law in cyberspace. Notably, both the African Union and the European Union adopted common positions addressing sovereignty, due diligence, and state responsibility in the cyber domain (African Union, 2024; Council of the European Union, 2024).

Building on earlier frameworks developed by states such as the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, more recent contributions from countries including Austria, South Korea, and Thailand have expanded the geographical and legal diversity of state practice (Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, 2024; Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, 2025; Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, 2025). While these statements do not yet amount to consensus, they contribute to a more representative global compendium of state practice, potentially supporting the gradual formation of customary norms. 

Nevertheless, these developments remain limited in scope. The cybercrime convention regulates criminal activity rather than state conduct in cyber warfare, leaving a gap in the regulation of cyber hostilities (Hughes, 2010, p.524). At the same time, states continue to avoid articulating fully convergent legal positions, constraining the crystallisation of customary law (Mačák, 2016, pp.130–131). Institutionalisation, therefore, does not necessarily produce legal clarity.

A defining specificity of cyber regulation is the problem of attribution, which has intensified with recent advances in artificial intelligence. Unlike nuclear activities, which can be monitored through physical verification mechanisms, cyber operations are inherently opaque. As Mačák notes, attribution is a central challenge for international law (Mačák, 2016, p.127). Recent threat assessments indicate that AI is increasingly used by both state and non-state actors to scale cyber operations and complicate adversary tracking (ENISA, 2025; Microsoft, 2025). The emergence of more autonomous, agentic AI systems further raises questions about responsibility where harmful outcomes may not be directly attributable to human intent (UNIDIR, 2026).

These developments reinforce a shift from deterministic to probabilistic attribution, where responsibility is inferred from patterns of behaviour, infrastructure, and effects rather than conclusively proven. This undermines legal frameworks that rely on establishing intent and complicates enforcement. At the same time, adaptive forms of malicious code further challenge static verification methods (ENISA, 2025). Together, these dynamics constrain the feasibility of treaty-based enforcement systems comparable to those in nuclear arms control.

The actor landscape further differentiates cyberspace. While nuclear regimes are state-centric, cyber operations involve a broad range of non-state actors, including corporations and decentralised groups (Mačák, 2016, p.127). Increasingly, private technology companies play a central role in attribution by providing technical analysis and threat intelligence, further diffusing authority away from states (Microsoft, 2025). This pluralisation of norm-making challenges the traditional state monopoly over international law and complicates treaty design.

Thus, cyber governance shows incremental progress, but any treaty remains distinct from nuclear arms control: diffuse, dual-use capabilities and uncertain attribution require regulating behaviour, not eliminating weapons. 

References:

Aboul-Enein, S. (2017) ‘Toward a non-nuclear world: The NPT regime – nuclear disarmament and the challenge of a WMDFZ in the Middle East’, International Journal of Nuclear Security, 3(1), Article 5. 

African Union (2024) Common African position on international law applicable to the use of information and communication technologies in cyberspace. Adopted by the 37th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly.

Council of the European Union (2024) Council conclusions on a common understanding of the application of international law to cyberspace. 14755/24.

ENISA (2025) ENISA threat landscape 2025. Athens: European Union Agency for Cybersecurity. Available at: https://www.enisa.europa.eu/publications/enisa-threat-landscape-2025 (Accessed: 1 May 2026).

Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (2024) Austria’s position on international law in cyberspace. Vienna: Republic of Austria.

Finaud, M. (2020) Multilateralism and arms control: The end of an era? Geneva: Geneva Centre for Security Policy.

Hughes, R. (2010) ‘A treaty for cyberspace’, International Affairs, 86(2), pp. 523–541.

Jaramillo, C. (2022) Death by a thousand red lines. Beyond Nuclear International. Available at: https://beyondnuclearinternational.org (Accessed: 1 May 2026).

Mačák, K. (2016) ‘Is the international law of cyber security in crisis?’, in Pissanidis, N., Rõigas, H. and Veenendaal, M. (eds.) 2016 8th International Conference on Cyber Conflict (CyCon). Tallinn: NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence, pp. 127–139.

Microsoft (2025) Microsoft digital defense report 2025. Redmond, WA: Microsoft.  Available at: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/security-insider/threat-landscape/microsoft-digital-defense-report-2025 (Accessed: 1 May 2026).

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (2025) Statement by the Government of the Republic of Korea on the application of international law in cyberspace. Seoul: Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Available at: https://www.mofa.go.kr/eng/brd/m_5674/view.do?seq=321145 (Accessed: 1 May 2026). 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (2025) National position of the Kingdom of Thailand on the application of international law in cyberspace. Bangkok: Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Available at: https://mfa.go.th/en/content/th-s-national-position-on-app-of-il-cyberspace-en  (Accessed: 1 May 2026). 

United Nations (2024) United Nations convention against cybercrime. New York: United Nations General Assembly. Available at: https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/cybercrime/convention/home.html (Accessed: 1 May 2026). 

United Nations (2025a) United Nations convention against cybercrime opens for signature in Hanoi. New York: United Nations Office of Legal Affairs. Available at: https://www.un.org/ola/en/news/united-nations-convention-against-cybercrime-opens-signature-hanoi (Accessed: 1 May 2026). 

United Nations (2025b) Final report of the Open-ended Working Group on security of and in the use of information and communications technologies 2021–2025. New York: United Nations. Available at: https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/4084927?v=pdf  (Accessed: 1 May 2026). 

UNIDIR (2025) Artificial intelligence in the military domain and its implications for international peace and security: An evidence-based road map for future policy action. Geneva: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research. Available at: https://unidir.org/publication/artificial-intelligence-in-the-military-domain-and-its-implications-for-international-peace-and-security-an-evidence-based-road-map-for-future-policy-action/ (Accessed: 1 May 2026). 

U.S. Department of State (2026) New START treaty expiration and status update. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of State. Available at: https://www.state.gov/new-start-treaty (Accessed: 1 May 2026).

Uruguay Donates Symbolic Sculpture to the ICC

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Uruguay Donates Symbolic Sculpture to the ICC

“The Totem of the Human Tribe” Unveiled at ICC Headquarters in The Hague

On 22 May 2026, H.E. Mr. Álvaro Enrique González Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay to the Netherlands, together with H.E. Ms. Tomoko Akane, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), unveiled the sculpture “El Tótem de la Tribu Humana” (The Totem of the Human Tribe) at the ICC headquarters in The Hague, the Netherlands.

The monumental artwork, created by renowned Uruguayan artist Roberto Vivo and donated by the Government of Uruguay to the ICC, stands as a powerful symbol of fraternity, diversity, and international justice. Previously exhibited at the Venice International Art Biennale, the sculpture invites reflection on humanity’s shared pursuit of peace and coexistence.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Roberto Vivo, who travelled to The Hague to personally present his magnificent oeuvre, alongside a distinguished gathering of ambassadors, heads of mission, judges, art collectors, and distinguish friends of Uruguay.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by a distinguished gathering of ambassadors, heads of mission, judges, art collectors, and distinguish friends of Uruguay.

Among the notable guests were H.E. Sahar Ghanem, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps; H.E. Graciela Gatti Santana, President of United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals; Luis Moreno Ocampo, first Prosecutor of the ICC; and Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi, former President of the ICC.

A special message from Yamandú Orsi, President of Uruguay, was read in person by ambassador González Otero during the ceremony.

In his message, President Orsi declared “The sculpture evokes the idea of a diverse humanity and embodies universal values such as dignity, peaceful coexistence, and respect among peoples. This donation is a source of national pride, and its installation within the premises of the Court amplifies a message of peace that is especially necessary at this delicate moment, when wars are multiplying and threatening the very foundations of the international order.”

Ambassador González Otero underscored the symbolic importance of installing the sculpture at the Court.

“If there is one place where this idea acquires concrete meaning, it is precisely here, at the International Criminal Court,” he said. “An institution that represents the collective effort of States to affirm that, beyond geographical, cultural, political and religious differences, there exist fundamental values that must be safeguarded through law and justice.”

H.E. Ms. Tomoko Akane, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Reflecting on current global challenges, the Ambassador noted that the ICC remains a tangible expression of international commitment to justice and accountability. He recalled that the entry into force of the Rome Statute in 2002 marked a milestone in the development of international law, establishing a unique forum where States agree to uphold common legal principles in the belief that justice strengthens peace, stability, and international coexistence.

He further reaffirmed Uruguay’s longstanding commitment to international criminal law and to the fight against impunity, noting the country’s early support for the Rome Statute and its incorporation into Uruguay’s domestic legal framework through comprehensive legislation.

Ambassador expressed “Uruguay has historicaly demonstrated its vocation and commitment to international law, and the current Government continues to promote the strengthening of multilateralism. Uruguay’s role as a contributor to international and global public goods – such as the maintenance to international peace and security, the consolidation and development of international law through participation in norm-setting fora and international courts, support for disarmament, food, security, global health, and commitment to addressing climate change – has distinguished our country as a cooperative actor in advancing solutions to global challenges.”

“The presence of this work at the seat of the Court carries profound symbolic value. Its vary title – Human tribe Totem – evokes the idea of a shared humanity, diverse yet interconnected, united by common principles and by the conviction that human dignity must be universally protected”.

“The Totem of the Human Tribe” by Roberto Vivo at the ICC.

Roberto Vivo an internationally renowned sculptor, writer, and painter with a remarkable artistic trajectory developed primarily in the United States, Italy, and Uruguay; and author of the book War: A Crime Against Humanity, reflecting on the message conveyed through his work, stated: “Today we are unveiling this sculpture, which I call ‘The Totem of the Human Tribe.’”

“Those who enter the Totem of the Human Tribe connect with the earth and are able to gaze out in the four cardinal directions — a celebration of the diversity that the four points of the compass provide. And when they enter, I hear getting inside the sculpture and feel the connection with Mother Earth.”

H.E. Mr. Álvaro Enrique González Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay to the Netherlands.

“It encompasses discovering the positive value of variety. It embraces a preference for diversity over unanimity. This sculpture invites the public to become part of a novel global concept: Humanity.”

Vivo expressed: “Consensually creating global laws to protect the Human Tribe, and to put an end to wars — like the unspeakable human tragedies unfolding right now in Ukraine, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and the Gaza Strip, as well as in so many other places around the world.”

“In a nuclear age, war as a mechanism to manage conflict is obsolete. Worse still, nuclear war threatens to make the Human Tribe itself obsolete, rendering it subject to self-inflicted extinction. War begets revenge. Justice puts a stop to it. Justice is civilization. War is nihilist barbarism.”

Part of the attendees to the unveil ceremony at ICC.

Addressing the audience during the ceremony, Judge Akane highlighted the profound relevance of the artwork to the Court’s mission.

“The Human Tribe Totem is particularly fitting for the International Criminal Court because it speaks to our shared humanity,” she stated. “Its symbolism reminds us that the ICC was created not for the interests of any single nation or region, but for humanity as a whole.”

She continued by emphasizing the contemporary significance of the sculpture: “At a time when conflicts and human suffering continue to make headlines, this artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity, accountability, and the rule of law. It reminds us that justice is not an abstract principle, but a responsibility shared by all nations and peoples.”

Since relocating to its permanent premises in December 2015, the ICC has received artistic donations from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Senegal, Slovenia, Tunisia, and now Uruguay.

The installation of The Totem of the Human Tribe adds another meaningful cultural landmark to the ICC headquarters, reinforcing the enduring connection between art, diplomacy, and the universal pursuit of justice.

Voices of Civilizations: Bridging Cultures through Music

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Voices of Civilizations: Bridging Cultures through Music

The Final of the 2026 “Culture China · Water Cube Cup” Chinese Song Contest, Netherlands Division was recently held in the Netherlands. On 21 May, in connection with the United Nations World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, the organizing committee released a special feature entitled “Voices of Civilizations”, using Chinese songs as a cultural medium to engage in dialogue and share perspectives on international public themes such as civilizational exchange, cultural diversity, and youth cross-cultural expression.

The United Nations World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development calls attention to the importance of understanding, respect, and dialogue among different cultures and civilizations. As an important cultural extension of this year’s Netherlands Division, “Voices of Civilizations” explored how music — an art form capable of transcending language, geography, and cultural boundaries — can create deeper connections through genuine interaction, shared listening, and emotional resonance.

The special dialogue brought together Peter van Bergen, Dutch contemporary music PhD owner and researcher; Hanqing Zhou, European-based Chinese baritone, and Vice President of the European Chinese Students Entrepreneurship Foundation; Shen-Ai Ho, young pianist and performing artist from Taiwan, China; Viola Cheung, soprano from Hong Kong, China; and Xige, music producer from Inner Mongolia, China. Drawing on their respective backgrounds in vocal performance, piano, music production, contemporary music, and cross-cultural artistic practice, the guests shared reflections on how music connects hearts, supports the growth of young people, and advances dialogue among civilizations.

The guests noted that genuine civilizational exchange should not remain at the level of displaying cultural symbols. Rather, it should be built upon mutual listening, understanding, respect, and long-term emotional connection. As a universal language, music enables people from different cultural backgrounds to resonate through shared listening experiences. It also helps overseas youth rediscover their own cultural roots in multicultural environments and develop more open, confident, and inclusive forms of expression.

The guests further observed that Chinese songs carry not only the beauty of the Chinese language, but also rich cultural emotions, life experiences, and aesthetic traditions. In an era of increasingly frequent global cultural exchanges, the international dissemination of Chinese songs is not only an artistic pathway for the global expression of Chinese culture, but also an important means of enhancing mutual understanding among civilizations and expanding the space for public dialogue.

The event was organized by the Organizing Committee of the 2026 “Culture China · Water Cube Cup” Chinese Song Contest, Netherlands Division. The organizing committee stated that it will continue to connect its cultural activities with international public themes such as the United Nations World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development and the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. Through Chinese songs and artistic exchange, the committee aims to further promote people-to-people exchanges between China and the world, encourage mutual learning among civilizations, and allow music to play a positive role in connecting emotions, deepening understanding, and building consensus in cross-cultural communication.

The Mechanism in its sunset phase: a responsible conclusion of the justice cycle

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
The Mechanism in its sunset phase: a responsible conclusion of the justice cycle

By H.E. Mrs. Graciela Gatti, President of the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals

When the United Nations Security Council established the International Criminal Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and for Rwanda in 1993 and 1994 respectively, it marked a significant expression of the international community’s commitment to the rule of law and an effort to restore human dignity in the aftermath of the mass atrocities of the early 1990’s. These ad hoc Tribunals, which were later succeeded by the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (commonly referred to as “the Mechanism”), achieved ground-breaking results.

They authoritatively interpreted and gave concrete effect to the Genocide Convention and international humanitarian law. In relation to nearly 200 indictees, these courts held accountable those most responsible for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity committed in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia, through trials and appeals adhering to the highest standards of fairness.

While the Mechanism has entered its “sunset phase”, it still carries real responsibilities to real people – obligations entrusted to the institution by the Security Council to ensure justice remains fair, effective, and durable. These include judicial oversight of protective measures granted to approximately 3,200 victims and witnesses and ensuring due process and effective implementation of sentences for the 38 convicted persons incarcerated under the Mechanism’s authority. Other important residual functions are the Prosecution’s assistance to national jurisdictions and the management of the archives of the ad hoc Tribunals and the Mechanism.

As the institution has evolved and its mandate has narrowed, the question of how its remaining functions should be managed — whether through continuation, transfer, or termination — has become increasingly important. In the current biennial review of the Mechanism’s progress and work, the Security Council will soon consider two reports by the Secretary-General on the possible transfer of functions and is expected to take decisions on the future jurisdiction of the Mechanism. I consider that there are clear options for the responsible transfer and termination of certain functions and other changes to the Mechanism’s mandate will allow it to become a very small, purely judicial institution, carrying out only limited, non-resource-intensive judicial functions essential to the completion of the justice cycle.

The most pertinent proposals made by the Secretary-General are as follows: The Mechanism’s Prosecution currently provides extensive assistance to various domestic prosecution efforts aimed at closing the impunity gap for fugitives and accused suspected of committing international crimes in the former Yugoslavia and during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. However, this technical assistance to national jurisdictions, as well as the Registry’s management of the archives, which is vital to preserving an accurate historical record to support research and counter revisionism and genocide denial, do not need to remain embedded within a judicial institution and could instead be transferred to the UN Secretariat. Furthermore, under appropriate circumstances, some administrative functions related to the day-to-day supervision of conditions of imprisonment could also be transferred to States, if compliance with minimum international standards is ensured.

However, the Secretary-General’s reports recognize that a limited number of judicial functions must remain at the international level in order to best ensure due process and the interests of justice. I will address the two most critical ones in turn:

First, the judicial authority to vary protective measures for victims and witnesses. Protective measures assured these individuals’ anonymity in proceedings before the ad hoc Tribunals and the Mechanism based on objective safety concerns. Many witnesses continue to fear retaliation or re-traumatization if their identities or testimony are disclosed; nevertheless, their evidence may be critical to key domestic accountability processes and allowing access to it may be necessary to avoid a miscarriage of justice in national cases. International judges are uniquely placed to impartially balance these competing interests and make determinations on varying protective measures fairly and consistently. Witnesses and victims who testified against those responsible for mass atrocities relied on assurances of international judicial protection. Preserving that guarantee is essential not only to the legacy of our work, but also to maintaining confidence in witness protection in future international criminal proceedings.

Second, the authority to designate enforcement States and to decide on pardon, commutation of sentence, or early release. Retaining this function at the international level ensures the most fair and uniform treatment of convicted persons regardless of where imprisonment takes place. Considering that the numerous States enforcing sentences under the authority of the Mechanism have varying early release and sentence remission practices, the transfer of this function to States creates credible risks of arbitrary, disparate and unequal treatment of prisoners.

The Mechanism is working diligently towards its ultimate closure. While the Mechanism’s residual judicial functions do not garner the same publicity as the capture of fugitives and the issuance of verdicts, this does not make these processes less important to the justice cycle. Hastily terminating or transferring critical judicial functions risks disparate and arbitrary application of the law, as well as irreparable damage to the entire accountability process.

The Mechanism remains committed to guaranteeing the international community’s substantial investment in justice and will continue to uphold the more than three decades of groundbreaking advancements in human rights and international criminal law.

Aishath Shaan Shakir reinforces ties to Sweden through accreditation

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Aishath Shaan Shakir reinforces ties to Sweden through accreditation

Thursday, 16 April 2026, Stockholm, Kingdom of Sweden: Maldives has reinforced its diplomatic presence in Sweden, with Ambassador Aishath Shaan Shakir presenting her Letters of Credence to King Carl XVI Gustaf, marking the start of her tenure as non-resident Ambassador to the Scandinavian country.
The ceremony was held at the Royal Palace in central Stockholm, followed by an audience with the Head of State. During the tête-à-tête, Ambassador Shaan conveyed greetings from President Mohamed Muizzu, along with those of the Maldivian government and people, to the Swedish monarch, government, and population. 

Discussions during the audience reflected on the existing relationship between the Maldives and Sweden, with Ambassador Shaan expressing interest in expanding cooperation across areas of shared interest during her tenure. Currently trade ties are limited but ca. 2000 Swedes visit Maldives on a yearly basis. Ambassador Shaan was accompanied by Saifulla Waleed, Second Secretary at the Maldives Embassy in Germany that is co-accredited to Sweden. 

As part of her visit to Stockholm, she also held meetings with senior officials at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden. These discussions focused on strengthening bilateral engagement and exploring collaboration within multilateral forums. Previously, the then Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid paid a visit to Sweden in May 2023 in connection with the EU Indo-Pacific Forum. Another important milestone was the visit of then President Mohamed Nasheed in 2009 to Sweden to receive the Anna Lindh Award for his role in securing the peaceful transition to democracy in Maldives. 

Sweden does entertain an honorary consulate in Malé, capital of Maldives, whereas the non-resident embassy is based in New Delhi, India. Swedish Ambassador Jan Thesleff presented his credentials to then President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in 2023; year that marked also the forty-fifth anniversary of diplomatic ties between Sweden and Maldives. 

Ambassador Shaan Shakir concurrently serves as the Maldives’ Ambassador to Germany, as well as non-resident Ambassador to Norway and Finland, reflecting a broader diplomatic mandate across Northern Europe. Aishath Shaan Shakir arrived in Germany after serving in the capacity as Chief of Protocol at the Maldivian Foreign Ministry. She led her first mission in Bangladesh in the capacity as high commissioner from 2016 to 2020. Having joined the diplomatic service in 1984, she has served likewise in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.

For further information 

The Royal House of Sweden: https://www.kungahuset.se/arkiv/nyheter/2026-04-16-kungen-gav-hogtidliga-audienser

Government of Sweden: https://www.regeringen.se/sveriges-regering/utrikesdepartementet/sveriges-forbindelser-med-omvarlden/asien-och-oceanien/maldiverna/

Embassy of Maldives in Germany (co-accredited to Sweden): https://www.maldivesembassy.de

Ambassador Maeve Monica Collins pays inaugural visit to Bremen

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Ambassador Maeve Monica Collins pays inaugural visit to Bremen

Wednesday, 13 May 2026, Free Hanseatic City of Bremen, Germany: Mayor Andreas Bovenschulte welcomed Irish Ambassador Maeve Monica Collins to Bremen City Hall. Following the welcome, Ambassador Collins signed the city’s Golden Book.

During their meeting, Mayor Bovenschulte and Ambassador Collins discussed opportunities for cooperation between Bremen and Ireland. The conversation also covered Bremen’s presidency of the Bundesrat (Federal Council of States) and Ireland’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, which it will assume in the second half of this year.

Earlier in the day, Ambassador Collins paid introductory visits to the Bremen State Parliament (Bremische Bürgerschaft) and the Chamber of Commerce. 

At the State Parliament, Ambassador Collins was welcomed by Speaker Antje Grotheer. During the latter meeting, topic of conversation was U.S. online platforms. According to Collins, Ireland serves as a key technology hub for these companies. It is essential, she noted, to develop “smart” regulations — specifically to make the internet safer for children and protect them from dangers — while simultaneously preserving Ireland’s role as a technology hub.

Ambassador Collins has served in a diplomatic career spanning more than three decades, with postings and senior appointments across Europe, Asia, and North America. He began his service with the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs in 1990 as Third Secretary in the Anglo-Irish Division in Dublin, later moving to the Economic Division and serving at the Embassy of Ireland in Bern and Ottawa. Over the years, he took on increasingly senior roles, including positions in the Development Cooperation Division, the Department of Finance, and the British-Irish Intergovernmental Secretariat in Belfast.

His career also includes extensive leadership in Irish and European external relations. He served as Joint Director General at the International Fund for Ireland, then as Ambassador of Ireland to Viêt Nam and later to Finland.

In 2011, he joined the European External Action Service as Deputy Head of Delegation at the EU Delegation in Japan, before returning to senior roles in Dublin as Regional Director in the Asia-Pacific Unit and later as Director General of the EU Division. He went on to serve as Deputy Permanent Representative of Ireland to the European Union in Brussels, and since August 2024 has been Ambassador at the Embassy of Ireland in Berlin.

For further information 

City of Bremen: https://www.senatspressestelle.bremen.de/pressemitteilungen/irische-botschafterin-zum-antrittsbesuch-im-bremer-rathaus-485054?asl=bremen02.c.732.de

Bremen State Assembly: https://www.bremische-buergerschaft.de/index.php?id=35&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=2415&cHash=5bda8bb9aa4e972579bd757294547d38

123...900Page 2 of 900