Real Armenia: Rethinking Statehood, Identity and the Future

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Real Armenia: Rethinking Statehood, Identity and the Future

By Matti Below, Sofie Babaian, and Kira Berger

On 8 October 2026, H.E. Mr Viktor Biyagov, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the Netherlands, delivered a lecture entitled “Real Armenia: Rethinking Statehood, Identity and the Future” at Maastricht University’s Faculty of Law.

The event formed part of The Ambassador Lecture Series, convened by Professor Fabian Raimondo under the auspices of the Maastricht Centre for Human Rights and in cooperation with ELSA Maastricht. The series offers students an opportunity to engage directly with ambassadors on legal, political and diplomatic issues of international significance. In his lecture, Ambassador Biyagov explored the concept of “Real Armenia”, reflecting on the relationship between historical identity, sovereignty and the future of the Armenian state.

At the heart of his presentation was a fundamental question: how can a nation whose identity has been shaped by its history reconcile the preservation of its heritage with the practical demands of building a modern, sovereign and democratic state? From historical memory to modern statehood For centuries, Armenians preserved their national identity despite being deprived of an independent state. Historical memory, language, culture and solidarity consequently played a central role in sustaining a sense of national belonging.

According to Ambassador Biyagov, the restoration of Armenian independence has brought new responsibilities and challenges. The concept of “Real Armenia” places the internationally recognised territory of the Republic of Armenia, its institutions and its citizens at the centre of national priorities.

This approach distinguishes between historical identity and present-day state strategy, placing sovereignty, security, democratic governance and citizens’ welfare at the centre of national priorities. But it does not mean abandoning historical memory. Instead, the Ambassador stressed the importance of distinguishing between the preservation of national identity and the formulation of a viable political strategy. History should inform the choices of the present without preventing society from looking towards the future.

H.E. Mr Viktor Biyagov, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the Netherlands during his presentation

Patriotism An important theme of the lecture was the Armenian patriotism

Traditionally associated with historical memory, sacrifice and the preservation of national identity, patriotism increasingly finds expression in active citizenship and responsibility towards the state. Ambassador Biyagov described a modern conception of patriotism founded on democratic participation, respect for the rule of law, the protection of individual rights and accountability. In this perspective, the strength of a state should be measured not merely by its territory or historical achievements, but also by the security, freedom, dignity and opportunities it provides to its citizens.

The Ambassador also addressed the relationship between Armenia and its extensive diaspora. While Armenian identity transcends national borders, the responsibilities of statehood necessarily concern the institutions and citizens of the Republic of Armenia.

Reconciling these different dimensions of Armenian identity remains an important challenge. Security, peace and regional stability The question of security occupied a central place in the Ambassador’s reflections. In his account, national security extends beyond military capabilities to encompass institutional resilience, economic development, democratic stability and the confidence of citizens in their country’s future.

Particular attention was devoted to the prospects for peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Ambassador Biyagov emphasised that the concept of “Real Armenia” cannot be separated from the pursuit of sustainable peace. Such peace, he suggested, requires more than the absence of armed conflict: it depends on the gradual development of trust and the creation of conditions that make renewed hostilities less likely. He acknowledged that reconciliation between societies affected by prolonged conflict is a complex undertaking, potentially requiring generations.

“Real Armenia: Rethinking Statehood, Identity and the Future” lecture by the Ambassador of Armenia at Maastricht University’s Faculty of Law.

Nevertheless, peace remains an essential condition for long-term stability and development. Foreign policy and strategic autonomy Ambassador Biyagov also examined Armenia’s position within a complex geopolitical environment. As a relatively small state situated at the intersection of competing regional and international interests, Armenia faces the challenge of preserving its sovereignty while maintaining constructive relationships with major powers.

The Ambassador advocated a balanced foreign policy aimed at safeguarding Armenia’s longterm interests and preserving its freedom of strategic choice. This involves developing relations with the European Union and the United States while maintaining important ties with Russia and Iran. Rather than pursuing isolation or excessive dependence on any single international partner, Armenia seeks to strengthen its capacity to make independent decisions in accordance with its national interests. These issues featured prominently in the question-and-answer session, during which participants explored the opportunities and difficulties associated with Armenia’s evolving international relationships, particularly its engagement with the European Union.

Towards a new social contract another significant aspect of the lecture concerned the relationship between the Armenian state and its citizens. Ambassador Biyagov presented “Real Armenia” as the foundation of a renewed social contract, in which political legitimacy rests on popular sovereignty, democratic accountability and the state’s responsibility to protect the welfare of its population. He recognised that such a transformation cannot be achieved solely through governmental initiatives. It also requires changes in public attitudes and a willingness to reconcile deeply rooted historical experiences with contemporary political realities.

The challenges of this transition are compounded by social divisions, the consequences of genocide and the relationship between Armenia and its diaspora. The Ambassador referred in particular to the displacement of approximately 100,000 Armenians and the need to create conditions for their successful integration into society. Nevertheless, he emphasised the importance of societal participation in shaping Armenia’s future.

A sustainable transformation must emerge not only from political institutions but also from citizens themselves. Making history serve the future The lecture concluded with a reflection on the relationship between historical memory and political responsibility. As Ambassador Biyagov put it, “Historical memory should provide wisdom, not paralysis.” This observation encapsulated the central message of his presentation: honouring Armenia’s past requires more than preserving its memory. It also demands the construction of a secure, prosperous and democratic future for the generations to come.

The concept of “Real Armenia” thus represents an attempt to reconcile historical identity with the practical responsibilities of contemporary statehood. As the lecture illustrated, this process involves difficult choices concerning sovereignty, security, democracy and international relations, but also offers an opportunity to redefine the relationship between a nation’s past and its future.

ICC Revises Code of Judicial Ethics

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ICC Revises Code of Judicial Ethics

The Hague, 16 October 2026 — A revised version of the Code of Judicial Ethics of the International Criminal Court (ICC) enters into force today, introducing amendments concerning judges’ use of social media and the binding nature of the Code.

The amendments were agreed upon by the judges during their annual judicial retreat on 29 September 2026, in accordance with Regulation 126 of the Regulations of the Court.

A new subparagraph 3 has been added to Article 10, requiring judges to exercise caution when using social media and other information technologies. Article 12 has also been amended to expressly affirm that the ethical standards set out in the Code are binding and that non-compliance may constitute misconduct.

These changes reflect the Court’s commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and ensuring that the conduct of its judges remains consistent with the responsibilities and public trust associated with judicial office.

The amendments to Articles 10 and 12 enter into force today, following publication of the revised Code on the ICC website.

Read the ICC Code of Judicial Ethics.

International Court of Justice to Receive Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize

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International Court of Justice to Receive Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize

The Hague, 7 October 2026 — The International Court of Justice (ICJ), which celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, will receive the Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize on 9 November 2026. The second-oldest peace prize in the world recognises the Court’s significant contribution to the peaceful settlement of disputes between states and its role in promoting international law as a foundation for peace and justice.

Laureate: The International Court of Justice

The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Established under the Charter of the United Nations in 1945, the Court began its work in April 1946. It has two principal functions: to settle legal disputes between states in accordance with international law and to provide advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised United Nations organs and specialised agencies.

Of the six principal organs of the United Nations, the ICJ is the only one based outside New York. Its seat is the Peace Palace in The Hague. The Court comprises 15 judges, also known as members of the Court, and is supported by its Registry. Since its establishment, 202 cases have been entered on the Court’s General List. It is currently handling 24 cases.

Peace Palace, The Hague. Photography by Diplomat Magazine.

Carnegie Foundation Jury Report

In its jury report, the Carnegie Foundation explains the reasons for awarding the Peace Prize to the International Court of Justice:

In a world characterised by increasing geopolitical tensions and international conflicts, the International Court of Justice plays an essential role as a peaceful instrument for the settlement of disputes. By offering states a judicial forum for the resolution of disputes, the Court contributes to preventing the escalation of conflicts and promoting international stability. The International Court of Justice distinguishes itself by its authority and legitimacy and enjoys broad recognition among states worldwide.

In addition, the Court fulfils an important normative function. Through its advisory opinions, it provides authoritative interpretations of international law on issues of global importance, including self-determination, international humanitarian law, and the responsibilities of states.

The 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice marks not only a historic milestone but also underscores the enduring importance of the rule of law in international relations. At a time when multilateralism is increasingly under pressure, the Court remains a stable and authoritative pillar of the international legal order. Through its unique combination of judicial authority, peaceful dispute settlement, and contribution to the development of international law, the International Court of Justice plays an essential role in promoting a just and lasting peace.

The Carnegie Foundation witnesses daily the increasing workload of the Court and the challenges it faces in carrying out its mandate. By awarding the Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize to the International Court of Justice, the Carnegie Foundation wishes to recognise and honour the achievements of the members of the Court, as well as the indispensable contributions of the Registry and its staff to the advancement of international justice and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Award Ceremony and High-Level Forum

On behalf of the members of the International Court of Justice and the Registry, H.E. Iwasawa Yuji, President of the ICJ, will receive the prize on Monday, 9 November, at 3 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Peace Palace. The award will be presented by Piet Hein Donner, Chairman of the Carnegie Foundation, Minister of State, and former Vice-President of the Council of State.

The ceremony will take place during the High-Level Forum, A Reaffirmed Commitment to Promoting, Hosting and Advancing Peace through Law, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, the Municipality of The Hague, and the Carnegie Foundation.

The forum will bring together representatives of governments, international institutions, academia, the diplomatic corps, and other organisations to reflect on the essential role of international law in promoting peace, justice, and stability. It will also reaffirm the shared commitment of the Netherlands and The Hague to the principle of Peace through Law.

Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize

The Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize has been presented at the Peace Palace since 1931. The Carnegie Foundation awards the prize to an individual or institution that contributes to international peace through words or deeds. It was established by Dutch banker Johan Wateler, who entrusted the prize to the Carnegie Foundation. On 9 November 2026, the prize will be awarded for the 75th time.

Over the past 95 years, the Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize has recognised prominent individuals and institutions for their contributions to peace, international cooperation, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Notable laureates include Sir Eric Drummond (1931), The Hague Academy of International Law (1936 and 1949), Jean Monnet (1953), the Dag Hammarskjöld Minnes Fund (1962), Coretta Scott King (1969), the Permanent Court of Arbitration (1998), Javier Solana (2006), War Child (2012), Lakhdar Brahimi (2014), and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (2022).

Italian Chef Francesco Frasca Opens Ristorante Baronetto in The Hague

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Italian Chef Francesco Frasca Opens Ristorante Baronetto in The Hague

Italian chef Francesco Frasca has officially opened Ristorante Baronetto, his own restaurant on the characteristic Mallemolen in the heart of The Hague. The new establishment marks an important chapter in Frasca’s culinary career, bringing the flavours and traditions of his native Piedmont to the international city of peace and justice.

The opening brought together friends, guests and members of The Hague’s Italian community. Representatives of the Italian Embassy attended the celebration, alongside members of the community, including Pasquale Ronza and his wife, Maria, and Elly Ciampichetti, accompanied by, among others, her son Stefano Ciampichetti, Director of Winford The Hague.

At Ristorante Baronetto, The Hague.

Frasca has built his culinary career in The Hague, where he previously served for many years as Executive Chef at Impero Romano.

With Baronetto, he now brings his own vision of Italian hospitality to the table, drawing inspiration from Piedmont and the Langhe region. Traditional dishes, truffles and regional wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco, feature prominently in the restaurant’s culinary offering.

Chef Francesco Frasca and co-owner Vijay Jitan welcoming Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten during a recent private visit to Ristorante Baronetto in The Hague.

Baronetto has also begun welcoming guests from The Hague’s political, diplomatic and international community. Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten recently dined at the restaurant, highlighting its growing presence in a city where gastronomy and international life frequently intersect.

The opening of Ristorante Baronetto celebrates not only a new addition to The Hague’s dining scene, but also Frasca’s longstanding ties to the city and its Italian community. Through his own restaurant, he continues to share the culinary heritage of Piedmont with local residents and international visitors alike.

Ristorante Baronetto
Mallemolen, The Hague
www.baronetto.nl

Chef Francesco Frasca celebrating the opening of Ristorante Baronetto with members of the Italian community in The Hague.

Ten Reasons to Elect Judge Luz Ibanez

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Ten Reasons to Elect Judge Luz Ibanez

Candidacy for the International Court of Justice

INDEPENDENCE · EXPERIENCE · REPRESENTATION  

INDEPENDENCE 01  A RECORD OF JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE – Judge Ibáñez’s judicial record bears witness to her independence of judgment. In complex and sensitive cases, she has applied the law and assessed the facts free from external influence or pressure, including where her view has differed from that of the majority. Her separate opinions are a testament to that independence: carefully reasoned, principled and firmly grounded in the law. Her independence is thus a quality demonstrated consistently through her judicial service.  

02   A CLEAR COMMITMENT TO IMPARTIALITY – Judge Ibáñez’s impartiality is demonstrated through a judicial record spanning cases involving diverse parties, interests and highly sensitive circumstances. She has consistently approached those cases without favor, bias or prejudice, applying the law even-handedly and giving full consideration to the rights and interests of all those before the Court. Her separate opinions, including in particularly sensitive proceedings, bear witness to an impartiality grounded in law rather than in the identity or position of any party.  

03   INDEPENDENCE IN THE FACE OF EXTERNAL PRESSURE – Judicial independence is most consequential when it is exercised in the face of external pressure. From her years as a prosecutor in Peru to her service as an international judge, Judge Ibáñez has exercised judicial and prosecutorial responsibilities in environments where powerful interests and external pressures could bear upon the administration of justice. During her tenure at the ICC, she has continued to discharge her judicial responsibilities independently, throughout a period in which international courts and their judges have faced unprecedented political and other forms of pressure. Her record demonstrates an independence of judgment, grounded in law and principle, and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the judicial function.		EXPERIENCE 04   A RECORD OF INTERNATIONAL JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE – Nine years of service on the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court have given Judge Ibáñez extensive experience in the demands of international adjudication at the highest level: rigorous examination of jurisdiction, procedure and legal argument, translated into clear and reasoned conclusions. That experience has also given her a firsthand understanding of the institutional responsibility entrusted to an international court and of the significance its judgments hold for the broader international legal order.  

05   FOUR DECADES OF PUBLIC SERVICE – Judge Ibáñez brings more than four decades of legal and public service: over three decades as a prosecutor in Peru, alongside sustained engagement with legal academia, and, the past nine years, as an international judge. Her experience, spanning prosecution, scholarship and international adjudication, extending across national and international institutions, has given her a distinctive and deeply grounded understanding of the law, legal institutions and the responsibilities of public office.
 
06   LEADERSHIP AT THE HIGHEST INSTITUTIONAL LEVEL – As First Vice-President of the ICC (2021–2024), Judge Ibáñez Judge Ibáñez served the highest level of the Court’s institutional leadership, engaging extensively with States, international organizations and judicial institutions. Her tenure afforded her a broad perspective on the legal and geopolitical realities shaping international relations, and on the importance of dialogue and consensus in multilateral affairs.  This experience deepened her understanding of multilateralism and the vital relationship between international law, justice, peace and security, a perspective of particular relevance to the judicial responsibilities and central role of the International Court.		REPRESENTATION 07   A LONGSTANDING GAP IN REPRESENTATION – In nearly eight decades of the Court’s history, 109 men have served as Judges of the International Court of Justice, compared with only six women. No woman from Latin America and the Caribbean has yet been elected to the Court. Judge Ibáñez’s election would contribute to addressing this longstanding gap in the Court’s composition, and to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 5 — women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership and decision-making in public life — as envisaged by the UN 2030 Agenda.  

08   REPRESENTATION ALONGSIDE MERIT J- udge Ibáñez’s candidacy brings meaningful regional and professional representation alongside the highest standards of legal competence and judicial independence. Her four decades of service across prosecution, legal academia and international adjudication, together with her perspective as a woman jurist from the GRULAC, would contribute a distinctive legal and professional perspective to the Court.  

09   AN ENRICHED LEGAL PERSPECTIVE – Judge Ibáñez developed  her legal career in Peru, within a legal tradition enriched by the jurisprudence of the Inter-American human rights system and other regional and multilateral mechanisms, and has carried this perspective throughout her nine years as a Judge of the International Criminal Court. Her work has contributed to the development of ICC jurisprudence, drawing on diverse legal traditions and approaches to international law. Her election would bring to the International Court of Justice the distinctive perspective of a South American woman jurist, grounded in a different legal tradition and body of jurisprudence, contributing to the diversity of perspectives that strengthen international adjudication and enhance the Court’s work in the service of the international community.
10   A CAREER IN THE SERVICE OF JUSTICE AND PEACE Judge Ibáñez’s four-decade career has been consistently dedicated to the pursuit of justice as a means of strengthening and securing lasting peace, both nationally and internationally. From prosecuting terrorism and grave human rights violations in Peru, to adjudicating the gravest international crimes at the ICC and contributing to the leadership of an international judicial institution, she has devoted her professional life to upholding the rule of law, protecting human dignity and advancing justice. Her candidacy brings together extensive judicial experience, deep expertise in international law, and a sustained commitment to multilateralism and international peace and security—a record of service that she now places at the service of the International Court of Justice.

2026  ASEAN 59th Anniversary 

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2026  ASEAN 59th Anniversary 

With Timor-Leste now a part of the family, ASEAN is now a formidable eleven-member institution to reckon with.

Theme: “Navigating Our Future, Together”

ASEAN Ambassadors together with many guests attending the 59th Anniversary of the association.

 On 16 September 2026, ASEAN Ambassadors in the Netherlands gathered at the Thai Residence, hosted by H.E. Asi Mamanee, the Thai Ambassador, to celebrate ASEAN’s 59th anniversary.

The event was filled with vibrant songs and dances from all member states, along with engaging performances, heartfelt speeches, and tasty culinary treats that created a wonderful atmosphere of friendship and unity.

H.E. Asi Mamanee, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, Chair of the ASEAN Committee in The Hague.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Asi Mamanee shared how ASEAN’s strategic location between the Indian and Pacific Oceans makes it an important hub for connectivity and a key player in global trade and supply chains. But ASEAN is much more than just an economic success; it’s a shining example of how diverse nations can come together to foster peace, stability, and shared prosperity. He proudly stated that as the Chair of the ASEAN Committee in The Hague, Thailand is committed to promoting activities that leverage these strengths for real, practical cooperation. Our goal is simple: we want to create solutions that benefit not only ASEAN and the Netherlands but also the wider global community.

The celebration ended up on a high note with a delightful Thai buffet, featuring mouthwatering dishes like green curry, leaving everyone with smiles on their faces as they departed from the Thai Residence!

Exclusive Opportunity at Exceptional Prices

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Exclusive Opportunity at Exceptional Prices

A diplomat relocating abroad is offering two elegant, high-quality premium sofas for sale.

Originally priced at €2,500 each, they are now available for just €600 per sofa, or an exceptional offer of €1,000 for both. A rare opportunity to acquire sophisticated, high-quality furniture at a fraction of its original price.

€600 each | €1,000 for both
Original price: €2,500 each

Contact +31 70 360 9815

Speaker Series on the Law and Dynamics of Sustainability: The Case of Palm Oil

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Speaker Series on the Law and Dynamics of Sustainability: The Case of Palm Oil

The Embassy of Malaysia in The Hague hosted the inaugural lecture of a Distinguished Speaker Series titled “The Law and Dynamics of Sustainability: The Case of Palm Oil.” This event took place at the Embassy of Malaysia in The Hague on the iconic date of September 11, 2026.

Lectures,”Global Sustainability Politics of Palm Oil” by Dr Helena Varkkey.

 Lecture 2: “Sustainable Palm Oil Governance: Aligning Domestic Laws and Industry Policies with SDGs and Global Environmental Legal Frameworks” by Dr Siti Hafsyah Idris

Dr Helena Varkkey holds the Prince Claus Chair in Equity and Development (2025–2027) at the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam, alongside her appointment as an Associate Professor of Political Ecology at Universiti Malaya. Her academic work concentrates on transboundary haze governance, palm oil sustainability, and global environmental politics in Southeast Asia. She earned her PhD in International and Strategic Studies from the University of Sydney and has authored several publications on regional environmental challenges, including her monograph “The Haze Problem in Southeast Asia: Palm Oil and Politics”.

Dr Siti Hafsyah Idris is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia, where she also serves as Director of the Community Network Centre. Specializing in environmental law, biosafety, climate change policy, and plastic pollution governance, she routinely acts as a legal consultant for Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability and has served on Malaysian delegations for UNEP treaty negotiations. She holds a PhD in Law from UiTM, completed postdoctoral fellowships in environmental law and bioethics at Airlangga University, and publishes extensively on transnational environmental regulation and legal frameworks.

Mr Mohd Ishrin bin Mohd Ishak Charge d’affaires a.i. Embassy of Malaysia, stated the following in his welcome remarks it is a pleasure for the Embassy of Malaysia in The Hague to host this Distinguished Speaker Series, on a subject of shared importance across government, industry, and academia.

“Today, we take on one of the key intersections of environmental policy and international trade: the future of sustainable palm oil. As global demand, climate targets, and regulatory standards evolve, understanding how sector transitions operate on the ground, and how legal frameworks align with global sustainability goals, has never been more important.

For Malaysia, this conversation carries particular weight here in the Netherlands, where evolving EU regulatory standards and market expectations directly shape our trade relationship. It is platforms such as this that help bridge the gap, bringing together policy, industry, and research perspectives.

We are privileged to have two distinguished experts with us today, who will bridge high-level international policy with practical domestic execution on this issue.

The questions before us today, how sustainability, law, and trade intersect, matter well beyond any one country’s borders. It is through exchanges like today’s that shared understanding, and workable solutions, begin to take shape. I hope you will find today’s session fruitful and engaging.”

Naman Systems presented to Indian Ambassador and Mayor of Leeuwarden

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Naman Systems presented to Indian Ambassador and Mayor of Leeuwarden

A meeting at Leeuwarden City Hall focused on further cooperation between India and Leeuwarden in the areas of innovation, education and sustainability.

Hemank Dabhade, founder of Naman Systems, presented his company during the meeting to India’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Kumar Tuhin, and Mayor of Leeuwarden the Honorable Foort van Oosten.

The discussion explored opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between India and Leeuwarden. The Indian Embassy also highlighted the contribution of Indian talent and entrepreneurship to sustainable solutions in the Netherlands.

Indian roots, Friesland as home

For Hemank Dabhade, the meeting also had personal significance. India is the country of his roots, while Friesland has become his home and the place from which he continues to build Naman Systems.

“Standing there, with Friesland as my home and India as my roots, it felt as though two chapters of my life had come together in one room,” said Dabhade.

From Leeuwarden, Naman Systems develops and builds home batteries, commercial battery systems and custom energy systems, with a focus on energy storage and smart energy management. For businesses, its solutions include three-phase energy storage, mobile battery systems, solutions for peak loads and grid congestion, and systems for larger energy requirements.

One of its distinctive products is the NS-ONE: a movable 16 kWh home battery with an optional integrated Type 2 EV charger. Solar energy stored during the day can later be used in the home or to charge an electric vehicle, for example in the evening or at night. This combines home battery storage and EV charging in a single energy system.

Continuing to grow from Leeuwarden

Mayor Foort van Oosten also reflected on the meeting. It was agreed to further explore opportunities for cooperation and identify useful contacts.

For Naman Systems, the presentation at City Hall marks a special step in the company’s continued development. From Leeuwarden, Naman Systems aims to keep working on technology that contributes to a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

More information: namansystems.nl

Saying Goodbye to a Friend: Ambassador Arnoldo Brenes Castro

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Saying Goodbye to a Friend: Ambassador Arnoldo Brenes Castro

After almost six years in the Netherlands, the time has come to say goodbye to H.E. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica to the Netherlands and Permanent Representative to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

For many in The Hague, however, this is more than a diplomatic farewell. It is also the departure of a dear friend, a respected colleague and an exceptional diplomat who has left a lasting impression on the diplomatic, legal, academic and social communities of the Netherlands.

Ambassador Brenes Castro presented his credentials in December 2020, beginning his first posting abroad as Ambassador of Costa Rica to the Netherlands. During his tenure, he represented Costa Rica with precision, commitment and a remarkable sense of responsibility, ensuring that his country was present and actively engaged wherever its voice could contribute.

His professional background explains much of his approach to diplomacy. A lawyer and notary public, he graduated from the University of Costa Rica in 1991 and obtained an MA in Theory and Practice of Human Rights from the University of Essex in 1994. His early professional life combined legal practice with teaching and work devoted to human rights, peace and security.

During the 1990s, he worked as a consultant and professor at the University for Peace of the United Nations, teaching in programmes related to human rights, peace education and sustainable environmental tourism. He also served with the Arias Foundation for Peace and Human Progress, where he worked on security and demilitarisation issues.

In 2000, he joined Costa Rica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship, where his career increasingly focused on international relations, international security and international law. He participated in important international legal cases involving Costa Rica and Nicaragua and served on several commissions dealing with international law, foreign service matters and the extension of Costa Rica’s continental shelf.

Before arriving in The Hague, he had already represented Costa Rica before some of the world’s principal international legal institutions, including the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Court of Justice. His appointment to the Netherlands therefore brought to The Hague a diplomat whose professional life had been deeply connected with international law, human rights and peace.

During his years in the Netherlands, Ambassador Brenes Castro further strengthened the close relationship between Costa Rica and the Netherlands. The two countries share important interests in areas including peace and security, climate action and environmental protection. With 175 years of diplomatic relations to be celebrated in 2027, the relationship continues to offer considerable opportunities for political, economic and cultural cooperation.

Costa Rica’s commitment to peace and international cooperation was also reflected in the Ambassador’s work on issues of international security and Costa Rica’s support for Ukraine. His involvement in negotiations and international discussions demonstrated his ability to combine legal expertise with practical diplomacy.

At the same time, his work went far beyond formal diplomatic meetings. He became a familiar and respected presence throughout The Hague’s international community, building friendships and professional relationships with ambassadors and diplomats, Dutch government officials, academics, international lawyers, representatives of international organisations and civil society, as well as members of the Costa Rican and wider Latin American communities and many Dutch citizens.

He was consistently present: at diplomatic events, international conferences, academic gatherings, cultural occasions and discussions on the many issues that shape the international community in The Hague. Wherever Costa Rica could contribute, Ambassador Brenes Castro made sure that Costa Rica was represented.

His effectiveness as a diplomat was matched by his personal qualities. He brought to his work extensive knowledge, careful preparation, determination and, above all, a genuine passion for the country he represented. For those who had the opportunity to work with him, having Ambassador Brenes Castro among us has been both an honour and a privilege.

His intellectual contribution is equally notable. An author and editor of numerous publications, he has combined his diplomatic career with a longstanding commitment to research and writing, particularly in the fields of international law, human rights, peace and international relations.

As Ambassador Brenes Castro prepares to leave the Netherlands for his next assignment as Ambassador of Costa Rica to Türkiye, he leaves behind an impressive record of diplomatic service but also a remarkably wide circle of friends.

For the Diplomatic Community of The Hague, saying goodbye to Ambassador Brenes Castro is therefore also saying goodbye to a friend.

We wish him and his family, good health, happiness and every success in his new mission. Costa Rica can be proud of the dedication, professionalism and passion with which he served his country in the Netherlands.

And while we say goodbye to Ambassador Brenes Castro, we also look forward to welcoming him back to The Hague whenever his diplomatic path brings him here again.

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