The Art Society The Hague Presents: The Relationship Between Terrorism and Art Smuggling
Explore the dark nexus of terrorism and stolen history
The Art Society The Hague, under the esteemed chairmanship of former Italian Ambassador H.E. Andrea Perullini, is proud to present a captivating lecture by the renowned art detective Arthur Brand. Join us on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, at 20:00 in our new venue, the Atrium of the Pastoral Centre of the Church of Our Saviour, Helenastraat 8, The Hague.
Arthur Brand, famously dubbed the “Indiana Jones of art,” will shed light on the shadowy world where art smuggling and terrorism intersect. Cultural property theft and antiquities trafficking are not just crimes against heritage—they serve as a means for criminals to launder money, finance illicit activities, and even support terrorism.
With over 15 years of experience, Brand’s investigative work has recovered world-famous artifacts, including the “Hitler’s horses” bronze statues, a lost Picasso masterpiece, and Oscar Wilde’s stolen ring. His achievements have earned him global acclaim and the subject of numerous media features, including his TV series De Kunstdetective and his international bestseller Hitler’s Horses, soon to be a major film by MGM.
This lecture offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the complexities of art crime from a global authority.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, 14 January 2025
- Time: 20:00
- Location: Atrium, Pastoral Centre of the Church of Our Saviour, Helenastraat 8, The Hague
- Format: Live lecture, also streamed via Zoom for registered attendees
Registration and Membership
To attend, whether in person or online, please register via The Art Society The Hague’s website by Monday, 13 January 2025.
Fees:
- Guest fee (single lecture): €15
- Full membership (8 lectures + activities): €75 (individual) / €140 (couple)
- Half-year membership: €37.50 (individual) / €70 (couple)
- Student membership: 50% discount
This is a live event not to be missed for anyone intrigued by art, culture, and the fight against illicit trafficking. Let Arthur Brand guide you into the (under)world of art smuggling and terrorism, revealing secrets only a master detective knows.
Reserve your spot now and become part of an enlightening journey into the darker side of the art world.
Return of 114-Year-Old Hereke Carpet to the Peace Palace after Restoration in Turkey
The restoration and return of the historic Hereke carpet to the Peace Palace marks a significant collaboration between the Carnegie Foundation, the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Embassy of Turkey in the Netherlands. H.E. Ambassador Selçuk Ünal played an important role in facilitating this project, underscoring the deep cultural and diplomatic ties between Turkey and the Netherlands. This remarkable effort, involved complex logistics and meticulous restoration work in Turkey’s Sultanhanı,
The restored carpet, a vital piece of the Peace Palace’s cultural heritage, will be reinstalled in the Japanese Hall in a festive unveiling ceremony on Thursday, 9 January 2025. The event will feature speeches by Piet Hein Donner, Chairman of the Carnegie Foundation; H.E. Selçuk Ünal, Ambassador of Turkey to the Netherlands; Dr. hab. Marcin Czepelak, Secretary General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration; and H.E. Nadir Alpaslan, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey.
A Gift from the Ottoman Empire
More than 40 countries contributed to the construction of the Peace Palace by donating artworks or building materials. The largest hand-woven carpet outside Turkey, donated by the Ottoman Empire in 1911, has now been extensively restored in its place of origin. Combining scientific innovation with traditional craftsmanship, the 160-square-meter carpet returns to the Peace Palace after an absence of nearly two years.
The Peace Palace’s Hereke carpet is distinguished by its intricate geometric design and craftsmanship, consisting of 13,704,480 Turkish “Gördes” knots. Measuring 160 m² and weighing approximately 700 kilograms, the carpet adorns the Japanese Hall—one of the most stately rooms in the palace, frequently used for conferences and hearings, including sessions of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Despite the durability associated with Hereke carpets, decades of intensive use necessitated this restoration.
Journey of Restoration
In January 2023, a protocol was signed between the Carnegie Foundation and the Turkish government, initiating a complex logistical and restoration process. The carpet began its journey in March 2023, first undergoing thorough cleaning at Icat in Cruquius, the Netherlands. It was then transported to Sultanhanı, in the Turkish province of Aksaray, where restoration specialists conducted meticulous work.
In November 2023, a Dutch delegation visited Sultanhanı to observe and contribute to the restoration planning. Experts developed an eight-phase conservation and restoration strategy, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge chemical analysis and technology. The carpet was divided digitally into 280 sections, each meticulously analyzed to identify 15 different types of damage. The most prominent issues included wear from furniture and foot traffic.
Advanced Restoration Techniques
With support from the analysis laboratories of the Turkish Energy Nuclear and Mineral Research Council (TENMAK) in Ankara, experts identified the original yarns and colors used over a century ago. Repair yarns were custom-dyed with natural pigments derived from plants and roots, following traditional methods. A highly skilled team of craftsmen, who had previously restored tapestries for Buckingham Palace, completed the intricate restoration.
ICC Prosecutor on the Situation in Afghanistan: Addressing Crimes Against Women and Girls
On 28 November 2024, the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) received a referral concerning the Situation in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Six States Parties to the Rome Statute—Chile, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Luxembourg, and Mexico—submitted the referral, highlighting the severe deterioration of human rights in Afghanistan, particularly for women and girls. The States Parties requested the ICC to consider crimes committed against women and girls following the Taliban takeover in 2021 as part of its ongoing investigation into Afghanistan.
Background of the Investigation
Under the Rome Statute, a State Party may refer a situation to the ICC Prosecutor when crimes under the Court’s jurisdiction appear to have been committed, seeking an investigation to identify individuals responsible. The referral underscores the escalating human rights violations in Afghanistan and calls for accountability through the ICC’s judicial processes.
The ICC’s investigation into Afghanistan began in 2017 when the Office of the Prosecutor sought judicial authorization to examine crimes committed on Afghan territory since 1 May 2003. The investigation also extended to crimes linked to Afghanistan’s armed conflict and committed on the territories of other States Parties since 1 July 2002. On 5 March 2020, the ICC’s Appeals Chamber authorized the commencement of this investigation.
Following a period of deferral due to an admissibility challenge by Afghanistan’s former government, the Pre-Trial Chamber II authorized the ICC to resume its investigation on 31 October 2022. Since then, the Office of the Prosecutor has conducted an independent, impartial, and robust investigation, with a focus on systematic discrimination and persecution of women and girls.
Emphasis on Gender-Based Crimes
The referral from the six States Parties aligns with the ICC’s commitment to addressing gender-based crimes, including the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds. The investigation into Afghanistan has already made substantial progress in examining allegations of gender persecution. Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC expressed confidence that concrete results from this investigation would be announced soon.
The Prosecutor acknowledged the courage and determination of those who have supported and cooperated with the ICC’s investigation. He also reaffirmed the ICC’s broader mission to ensure accountability for crimes that profoundly affect the most vulnerable, especially women and girls in Afghanistan.
Call for Cooperation and Resources
As the Assembly of States Parties approaches, the Prosecutor reiterated the referral’s call for enhanced cooperation and resources to support the ICC’s work in Afghanistan. States Parties to the Rome Statute and other relevant actors are encouraged to provide the necessary support to advance the investigation and ensure justice for the victims.
The ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor remains open to receiving information about crimes committed under its jurisdiction. Submissions can be made securely via OTPLink, allowing individuals and entities to contribute to the investigation.
Commitment to Accountability
The referral from Chile, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Luxembourg, and Mexico highlights a collective determination to address the ongoing human rights crisis in Afghanistan. The ICC’s investigation stands as a proof to the international community’s resolve to confront crimes against humanity and uphold justice for the victims of systematic gender-based persecution. The ICC remains steadfast in its mission to pursue accountability and advance human rights, even in the most challenging circumstances.
More information: Situation in Afghanistan
Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) Concludes its 36th Annual Meeting of the Governing Council in The Hague
Advancing Climate Resilience and Inclusive Growth for Commodity-Dependent Nations
The Hague, 12 December 2024 – The Governing Council of the Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) successfully concluded its 36th Annual Meeting, held on 11–12 December 2024 at The Hague Marriott Hotel, The Netherlands. Delegates from Member Countries, international organizations, and institutional observers gathered to discuss strategic priorities, operational achievements, and future directions for the Fund.
During the meeting, H.E. Ms. Mirjam Blaak Sow (Uganda) was unanimously elected as Chairperson of the Governing Council for 2024 and 2025. H.E. Ambassador Caroline Kitana Chipeta (Tanzania), H.E. Ambassador Rekha Gunasekera (Sri Lanka), Ms. Anna Tofften (Sweden), and Mr. Jin Yuan (China) were elected as Vice Chairpersons for their respective regional groups.
H.E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Chikoti, Secretary-General of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), delivered the keynote address, stating:
“The OACPS and the CFC are not mere partners of convenience but allies united by a shared purpose. Together, we share a deep and enduring commitment to addressing the root causes of poverty and economic disparity in the developing world. By harnessing our collective resources and expertise, we can offer millions of smallholder farmers across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific more than just a chance at survival.”
He further emphasized the need for fair and inclusive policies, ensuring that smallholder farmers are not excluded from global markets due to stringent compliance regulations under initiatives such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
The CFC achieved significant milestones in 2024, including the approval of 18 projects under the Open Call for Proposals, representing a cumulative project cost of USD 135.56 million. The CFC’s contribution amounted to USD 18.55 million, with a focus on regenerative agriculture, climate resilience, and smallholder livelihoods. To date, the Fund has supported 480 projects globally, representing a total value of USD 344.55 million.
Progress in operationalizing the Agricultural Commodity Transformation (ACT) Fund was also highlighted, including successful engagements with Development Finance Institutions and impact investors. The Fund’s innovative approach integrates climate resilience and improved farmer livelihoods. Its recent collaboration with the U.S. Department of State aims to scale private sector investment into climate-adapted crop varieties and healthy soils through the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) initiative.
During the meeting, it was announced that the CFC received a grant of USD 500,000 from the Central Africa Forestry Initiative (CAFI) for a project focused on shaping deforestation-free agricultural value chains in the Congo Basin region.
The Governing Council approved the Consolidated Administrative Budget for 2025, maintaining zero real growth while accommodating external funding provisions for initiatives such as CAFI and the ACT Fund. It also approved the preparation and implementation of the CFC’s Strategic Framework for 2025–2035, allocating a budget of USD 200,000 to guide the Fund’s future priorities and enhance its impact in supporting commodity-dependent countries.
H.E. Ambassador Sheikh Mohammed Belal, Managing Director of the CFC, underscored the Fund’s role in addressing global inequality and promoting innovation. He remarked:
“We gather here with a profound sense of purpose to address the persistent yet transformative challenge of empowering smallholder farmers and SMEs in the Global South. These communities form the backbone of the global economy, comprising 70% of the workforce in low-income countries. Yet, they remain underserved. Together, we can change this narrative and build an inclusive future.”
Highlighting the CFC’s innovative approaches, such as the use of advanced technology, carbon trading, and regenerative agriculture, Ambassador Belal emphasized their importance in addressing both climate resilience and economic growth. He urged Member States to provide necessary support to commodity-producing smallholders for a technology-enabled transformation:
“Only through strategic intervention, following the roadmap of the Integrated Program of Commodities (IPC) in commodity value chains, can humanity still have a shot at achieving the SDGs—if at all.”
The Governing Council also announced that the 37th Annual Meeting will take place on 9–10 December 2025 in The Hague, with an open invitation for any Member State to host the event.
In a world of unprecedented wealth and technological advancements, the growing prevalence of absolute poverty starkly underscores a deepening inequality that cannot be ignored. The Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) calls on all stakeholders—governments, corporations, and civil society—to prioritize the fundamental tenets of humanity: compassion, equity, and collective responsibility. As stewards of a shared planet, it is imperative to address the persistent challenges faced by the most vulnerable, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The CFC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering sustainable development and urged the global community to unite in building a fairer and more inclusive world—because we have only one planet to call home.
The CFC is an intergovernmental financial institution established to enhance the socio-economic development of commodity-dependent countries. Through partnerships, innovation, and impactful investments, the Fund addresses challenges in global commodity value chains, promoting sustainability and inclusive growth.
For further information, please contact: managing.director@common-fund.org
Maja Steenwijk-Groot: A Life of Networking
Maja Christina Steenwijk-Groot is a prominent Dutch businesswoman celebrated for her exceptional networking skills and her ability to bring people together through innovative and memorable events. Her career, spanning decades, has been marked by a dedication to building connections between Dutch business professionals and the diplomatic corps, as well as advocating for meaningful social causes.
The Amstel Awards and Amstel Concerts
Ms. Steenwijk-Groot’s most notable contributions include founding the prestigious Amstel Awards and the Amstel Concerts, held at the iconic InterContinental Amstel Hotel in Amsterdam. These events were designed to unite Dutch business leaders with diplomats in an elegant and engaging setting. Although changing priorities among hotel management led to the conclusion of these events, their legacy lives on in the many fond memories and kind letters of gratitude from numerous ambassadors who attended.
Before the Amstel Awards and Concerts she launched the Spring and Autumn Concerts at Kijkduin Hotel. These gatherings continued her tradition of offering diplomats and business professionals opportunities to connect. “I have so many nice memories, photos, and very kind letters of gratitude from numerous ambassadors posted in the Netherlands,” she recalls.
Philosophy of Event Organization
For Ms. Steenwijk-Groot, events are more than just occasions; they are platforms for building relationships and creating opportunities. “It is easier for Dutch people to connect with an ambassador after an event like a concert,” she explains. Her goal has always been to facilitate connections that benefit not just individuals but also the countries they represent. “At least that is what I hope,” she adds.
Advocating for Veterans: The Witte Anjer Prijs
Maja Steenwijk established the tradition of inaugurating numerous white carnation gardens across the Netherlands to honor the nation’s veterans. A symbolic and powerful celebration often accompanies these unveilings, with veterans who served in Sarajevo, Mali, Kabul, and other missions in attendance. The tradition includes placing white carnations in the coats of those who dedicated their time to serving their country. Dutch citizens are also encouraged to plant white carnations in their own gardens as a tribute.
Ms. Steenwijk-Groot’s efforts to promote the opening of white carnation gardens involved garnering support from mayors across the Netherlands. “The goal was a white carnation bed in every city or village for the veterans,” she explains. To date, she has contributed to the creation of approximately 120 such gardens, including unveilings in Rotterdam, Bloemendaal, and Wassenaar. “The nomination was not that important to me,” she says of her recognition for the Witte Anjer Prijs. “It was all about honoring the veterans.”
Unique Diplomatic Experiences
Ms. Steenwijk-Groot’s extensive network and creative energy have allowed her to organize unique and unforgettable experiences for diplomats. From visits to a sauerkraut factory and the Heineken brewery to perfume workshops where participants could create their own scents. Her dedication extends to both ambassadors and their staff, exemplified by organizing a special diamond factory tour exclusively for secretaries.
“Since I have a huge network in all fields, I am always happy to bring people together,” she says. “Someone once told me, ‘You are a people pleaser,’ and I think that’s true.” Beyond these events, she has often been called upon to handle sensitive matters for members of the diplomatic corps, offering her assistance with the utmost discretion and empathy.
Parliamentary Agenda 2025
The 39th edition of Maja Steenwijk-Groot’s Parliamentary Agenda is a luxury Dutch-English publication that will be distributed to key figures, including all members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister, Ministers, Secretaries of State, the President and Members of the House of Representatives, the President and Members of the Dutch Senate, Secretaries-General and executives of the Ministries, King’s Commissioners, Mayors of provincial capitals and larger cities, Ambassadors of foreign embassies and consulates in the Netherlands, Councillors and Attorneys General of the Supreme Council of the Netherlands, members of the State Council, chairpersons and staff members of consultative bodies, as well as top business executives and leading industry figures.
The agenda will also highlight the NATO Summit 2025, which will take place in The Hague on June 24 and 25 at the World Forum. Marking 125 years of The Hague as the city of peace and justice, the summit aligns with NATO’s core mission to guarantee the freedom and security of its members through political and military means. With topics such as collective defense, the transatlantic link, and the 2022 Strategic Concept, the summit underscores NATO’s commitment to democratic values, crisis management, and cooperative security.
Looking Ahead
While Ms. Steenwijk-Groot currently has no specific events planned, she remains open to new opportunities. Whether sourcing gifts for a tennis tournament hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Canadian Embassy or organizing a memorable visit for foreign dignitaries, she continues to embrace challenges with enthusiasm.
One of her most rewarding experiences was organizing a visit to an Amsterdam factory that repurposes demolished materials for airport runways. The event’s success led to a repeat visit for Algeria’s Minister of Industry and his delegation. “This was a great success to organize,” she says.
A Legacy of Connection
From hosting concerts to advocating for veterans, Maja Steenwijk-Groot’s career reflects her ability to bring people together and create meaningful experiences. Her work showcases her creativity, compassion, and commitment to making a difference both locally and globally.
Indonesia Launches its First International Medical Wellness Tourism Promotion in the Netherlands
The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in the Hague, in collaboration with the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, hosted the first Indonesia Medical Wellness Tourism Promotion (IMWTP), in Amsterdam, 26 October 2024, marking a significant step forward in Indonesia-Netherlands relations through the innovative sector of medical wellness tourism.
Ambassador Mayerfas in his opening remarks highlighted Indonesia’s strong points in wellness tourism. “Indonesia, with its rich biodiversity, cutting-edge healthcare facilities, and deep-rooted traditional healing practices, is emerging as a global hub for medical wellness tourism. Indonesia offers not only high-quality medical services but also unique experiences that blend modern healthcare with traditional therapies, set in the middle of the beauty of our natural landscapes.”
The Director of Health Services Governance of the Ministry of Health, Sunarto, further emphasized the opportunities for international partnerships and the role of wellness tourism in promoting Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage alongside advanced healthcare solutions.
The representative from the Ministry of Tourism, Arya Galih Anindita, underscored the Indonesian government’s commitment to fostering the medical wellness tourism sector as a key component of its economic and tourism strategy.
Dutch Health Architect, showcasing the design of Aspen Medical Hospital in Depok, West Java, drew attention to the potential for Indonesia-Netherlands partnerships in developing world-class facilities that align with the international standards. On top of this, senior managers from AON, one of leading international insurance companies in Europe, spotlighted the avenues for collaboration in insurance coverage for medical tourism. They expounded the benefits of comprehensive health and wellness packages that provide peace of mind and convenience for international tourists.
The event, which saw active participation from both Indonesian and Dutch stakeholders, aimed at introducing Indonesia’s holistic wellness and medical services to the Dutch market through business-to-business matching session, products exhibition, and various workshops. Key Indonesian participants include the Bali Medical Tourism Association (BMTA), Prima Medika Hospital, Bali Royal Hospital, RSU Bhakti Rahayu, Sada Jiwa Clinic, Unicare Medical Clinic, and the Sanur Special Economic Zone (SEZ). They represented diverse and unique potentials in Indonesia’s rapidly growing health and wellness sector.
Garuda Indonesia Amsterdam and several wellness related stakeholders, such as Kutus Kutus Property International (KKPI), Djamu Djamu, Blora Mustika BV, and Good Jamu, also participated in the two-days exhibition and workshop programs.
With its emphasis on healthy living and innovation, the Netherlands is an ideal partner for Indonesia in advancing this sector. As Indonesia’s wellness and medical tourism sector continues to expand, this event highlights the country’s readiness to welcome Dutch tourists seeking rejuvenation and holistic health treatments in Indonesia’s beautiful and serene settings.
President Gatti Santana briefs UN Security Council on progress of Mechanism’s work
Arusha, The Hague, 10 December 2024 – The President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (Mechanism), Judge Graciela Gatti Santana, today presented the Mechanism’s twenty-fifth progress report to the United Nations Security Council (Council) in New York.
President Gatti Santana began her address by expressing profound gratitude for the support the Mechanism has received from the Council, particularly during the biennial review process that led to the renewal of the Mechanism’s mandate in June 2024.
The President informed the Council that, since her last address, the Mechanism has advanced with a clear focus. She stated that, while the Mechanism continues to have substantial work in connection with its residual mandated functions, which are unprecedented in scope, “we are delivering justice in line with our statutory obligations, are doing so efficiently, and with a completion mindset”.
By way of illustration, President Gatti Santana referred to a number of judicial activities, including the recent review hearing in the Gérard Ntakirutimana case. There, the Appeals Chamber heard all the relevant evidence and closing submissions from the parties over two working days and pronounced its judgement at the end of the same week, with Mr. Ntakirutimana’s convictions remaining unaltered. The President emphasised that this process was key to the justice cycle and ensured no miscarriage of justice had occurred, but also exemplified the institution’s dedication to completing any in-court proceedings quickly and cost-effectively.
With respect to the Mechanism’s other residual functions, including for example supervising the enforcement of sentences and providing assistance to national jurisdictions, President Gatti Santana highlighted that they continue to require time, attention, and resources. She explained that the Mechanism is, moreover, best placed to execute them in the near term, given its institutional knowledge and the need to identify viable and just solutions for transfer or completion.
The President underscored, however, that the Mechanism will require ongoing cooperation from States to address critical, unresolved challenges. These include finding a durable solution for the six acquitted or released persons in Niger, who continue to live in limbo and without the rights they were promised when they agreed to relocate there. A second challenge relates to the return of convicted persons from enforcement States to the United Nations Detention Unit in The Hague, which has resulted in the effective conversion of the Unit into a prison facility. Another issue requiring cooperation is the Jojić and Radeta case, pending for nearly a decade due to Serbia’s lack of cooperation in arresting and transferring the accused.
Turning to the Mechanism’s future planning efforts, President Gatti Santana emphasised that the Mechanism has paid very close attention to resolution 2740 (2024) and stands ready to provide any information and support required in relation to the reports that the Council has requested the Secretary-General to prepare. In the meantime, the Mechanism continues to streamline and reduce its operational requirements to more fully realise the Council’s vision of a small, temporary, and efficient institution. This is exemplified by its reductions in staffing and budgetary resources and the closure of both the Kigali Field Office and External Relations Office.
In closing, President Gatti Santana reiterated that the Mechanism exists to complete the cycle of justice initiated by the Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda and remains resolute in its commitment to this cause. She assured the Council that: “We are prepared to conclude this work and to fulfil your promise to Rwanda and the States of the former Yugoslavia – in resolution after resolution – that justice will be done.”
ICMP Commemorates 10th Anniversary of the Signing of the ICMP Agreement
The Hague,16 December 2024: The Conference of States Parties to the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) met in diplomatic format at the Peace Palace in The Hague, the Netherlands, today to approve important amendments to ICMP’s founding Treaty that will further enhance the organization’s capacity to implement its global mandate. The occasion also commemorated the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty.
In December 2014, the Agreement on the Status and Functions of the International Commission on Missing Persons was signed by Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The Agreement established ICMP as an intergovernmental organization with its seat in The Hague. The ICMP Agreement includes a clause for its review at the initiative of the original Signatory States. Ten countries participated in the review process, and the amendments reflect practical lessons learned in the decade since the Treaty was signed.
One of the amendments agreed will clarify the criteria and process for States to become parties to the Agreement. States wishing to become parties to the ICMP Agreement are expected to have demonstrated commitment to addressing the issue of missing persons as a state responsibility. Another agreed change will facilitate the organization’s capacities to pursue multilateral initiatives among states, including a standing capacity to respond to the growing number of missing persons around the world.
The number of conflicts around the world – the highest number since 1946 – coupled with the consequences of global warming and an increase in migration has contributed to record numbers of missing persons. An effective standing capacity can respond to this in a manner that is in line with the rule of law and ensures that the rights of all families are secured, regardless of their national, religious or ethnic background, gender, economic situation, or political beliefs, or the circumstances of their disappearance or any other factor.
Today’s conference, which was hosted by the Foreign Ministry of the Netherlands, was organized with support from the governments of Germany, the Netherlands and Kosovo.