The Geopolitical Landscape of Hate Speech

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The Geopolitical Landscape of Hate Speech

Unraveling Its Drivers, Consequences, and Global Reactions

By Marco Pizzorno

In today’s interconnected world, hate speech has evolved from a mere social issue to a pivotal element in geopolitical discussions. This alarming trend not only reshapes political landscapes but also significantly impacts social dynamics and international relations. Understanding the complex interplay between hate speech and global issues is crucial for addressing its widespread consequences effectively.

Hate speech operates within a multifaceted framework of local, national, and international contexts, often fueled by power struggles, historical grievances, and cultural narratives. Its proliferation can exacerbate existing tensions and conflicts, posing significant challenges for both state and non-state actors.

For instance, regions grappling with historical injustices, such as the Balkans, continue to experience divisive rhetoric stemming from ethnic discord rooted in the conflicts of the 1990s. This lingering animosity complicates reconciliation efforts and threatens regional stability. The wisdom of Elie Wiesel, who remarked that “the opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference,” underscores the imperative for societies to confront hate speech actively, rather than allowing it to fester in silence.

The manipulation of hate speech by authoritarian regimes further complicates the geopolitical landscape. Leaders often exploit societal divisions to divert attention from governance failures or to rally support against perceived common enemies. The late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. warned of the broader implications of such rhetoric, stating, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” His words serve as a reminder that hate speech not only harms targeted individuals but also erodes the very fabric of society.

Additionally, the rapid pace of globalization has intensified cultural clashes, with hate speech frequently emerging as a reaction to perceived threats against cultural identity. This dynamic is particularly evident in Europe, where anti-immigrant sentiments have surged amid ongoing migration crises. Scholars at institutions like Harvard University have documented how cultural backlash can lead to increased polarization, emphasizing the need for careful navigation of these tensions.

The consequences of hate speech extend far beyond individual cases, significantly affecting geopolitical stability and international relations. One of the most alarming outcomes is its potential to incite violence, leading to civil unrest, riots, or even genocides. The Rwandan Genocide of 1994 starkly illustrates this point, as unchecked hate speech catalyzed mass violence against the Tutsi population. According to a United Nations report, incendiary radio broadcasts played a critical role in escalating the genocide, highlighting the necessity for vigilance and proactive measures from the international community.

Furthermore, in multicultural societies, hate speech can fracture social cohesion, creating divisions that may lead to conflict. The polarization driven by such rhetoric can undermine democratic institutions, as seen in Myanmar, where incendiary language has exacerbated ethnic tensions. The International Crisis Group has emphasized that hate speech can intensify existing grievances, reinforcing the urgent need for intervention.

Countries that neglect to address hate speech risk damaging their international reputation and standing, often becoming regarded as human rights violators. Such perceptions can erode their soft power and strain diplomatic relations, as nations increasingly bear responsibility for their domestic policies on hate speech. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have consistently called on governments to take decisive action against this issue, warning that “the failure to act sends a message that such behavior is tolerated.” In light of these significant implications, developing comprehensive strategies tailored to the unique challenges presented by hate speech is essential. Drawing on the insights of historical human rights advocates, effective approaches should integrate legal, educational, and community-based initiatives.

The global community must collaborate to establish clear and enforceable norms regarding hate speech, aiming to balance the protection of free expression with the need to safeguard vulnerable populations. Eleanor Roosevelt, a pivotal figure in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, asserted that “where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home.” This perspective highlights the importance of ensuring that international standards reflect a commitment to protecting individuals from hate and discrimination at all levels. By fostering a more profound understanding of hate speech’s geopolitical implications, societies can work together to build a more inclusive and resilient global community.

Embassy of Peru in The Netherlands Offers Workshop and Pisco Tasting to Bartenders From The Hilton Hotel in The Hague

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Embassy of Peru in The Netherlands Offers Workshop and Pisco Tasting to Bartenders From The Hilton Hotel in The Hague

In order to promote Peruvian pisco in the Netherlands and strengthen the skills of the bartenders of the Hilton Hotel in The Hague in the preparation of Pisco Sour, on October 30 a workshop and a pisco tasting took place at the “Blue Blood” restaurant of the hotel. The purpose of the activity was to optimize the preparation technique of Peruvian flagship drink and to provide information on the quality, origin and denomination of the various types of Peruvian pisco.

After the theoretical sessions and the tasting, the participants achieved, through the pisco tasting, a better understanding of the sensory differences and applications in cocktails of each of the types of Peruvian pisco. In the practical tests, the bartenders in attendance were able to replicate the Pisco Sour with a high quality presentation and flavor. During the event, attendees were offered a sample of Peruvian gastronomy by the renowned Peruvian chef of the Hilton Hotel, Luis Rojas.

The inauguration was in charge of Minister Oscar Paredes of the Embassy of Peru in the Netherlands and was attended by the Economic and Commercial Counselor OCEX Rotterdam, Gycs Gordon, and his team.

Embajada Del PerĂș En Los PaĂ­ses Bajos Ofrece Workshop Y Cata De Pisco A Bartenders Del Hotel Hilton En La Haya

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Embajada Del PerĂș En Los PaĂ­ses Bajos Ofrece Workshop Y Cata De Pisco A Bartenders Del Hotel Hilton En La Haya

La Embajada del Peru en PaĂ­ses Bajos organizo un evento especial con el objetivo de promocionar el pisco peruano en los PaĂ­ses Bajos y fortalecer las habilidades de los bartenders del hotel Hilton de La Haya en la preparaciĂłn del Pisco Sour. El 30 de octubre se llevĂł a cabo en el restaurante “Blue Blood” de dicho hotel un workshop y una cata de pisco. La actividad tuvo como fin optimizar la tĂ©cnica de preparaciĂłn de la bebida bandera del Peru y brindar informaciĂłn sobre la calidad, origen y denominaciĂłn de los diversos tipos de pisco peruano.

Luego de las sesiones teĂłricas y de la degustaciĂłn, los participantes lograron, mediante la cata del pisco, una mejor comprensiĂłn de las diferencias sensoriales y aplicaciones en coctelerĂ­a de cada uno de los tipos de pisco peruano. En las pruebas prĂĄcticas, los bartenders asistentes lograron replicar el Pisco Sour con una presentaciĂłn y sabor de alta calidad. Durante el evento se ofreciĂł a los asistentes una muestra de la gastronomĂ­a peruana, de la mano del reconocido chef peruano del hotel Hilton, Luis Rojas.

La inauguraciĂłn estuvo a cargo del ministro Oscar Paredes de la Embajada del PerĂș en los PaĂ­ses Bajos y contĂł con la presencia del Consejero EconĂłmico Comercial OCEX Rotterdam, Gycs Gordon, y su equipo de trabajo.

101st Anniversary of the Republic of Turkey Celebrated in The Hague

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101st Anniversary of the Republic of Turkey Celebrated in The Hague

Today, H.E. Mr. Selçuk Ünal, Ambassador of Turkey to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, hosted an elegant reception in Wassenaar, The Hague, to celebrate the 101st anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey.

The event welcomed an impressive array of attendees, including the President of the Dutch Senate, several parliamentarians, the Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ambassadors, diplomats from various countries, and representatives from both the Turkish business community and the Dutch-Turkish community. Together, they honored Turkey’s journey from the War of Independence in 1923, led by Mustafa Kemal AtatĂŒrk, to the dynamic nation it is today.

Reflecting on the past century, Ambassador Ünal highlighted Turkey’s resilience and progress, noting President Erdoğan’s vision for the “Century of TĂŒrkiye” as a period of further national development and advancement. This year also marks a milestone in Turkish-Dutch relations with the centenary of the Treaty of Friendship between Turkey and the Netherlands.

“Turkey and the Netherlands share nearly 500 years of peaceful relations and mutual respect, standing as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations.”

101st anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey.

“As you know, this year we are also celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship between the Republic of TĂŒrkiye and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It was one of the first seven countries that recognized the new Turkish Republic.”

Ambassador Ünal emphasized the historical strength of the Turkish-Dutch relationship, which has seen both nations collaborate through various international platforms, including the Council of Europe, NATO, UN peacekeeping missions, OSCE, OECD, and OPCW. The Wittenburg Conference, established in The Hague in 2008, symbolizes this enduring partnership and commitment to global cooperation. Ambassador Ünal acknowledged recent diplomatic visits, including Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s visit to Turkey and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s April visit to The Hague for the 10th Wittenburg Conference.

“Trade and economic ties have also grown robustly, with the Netherlands ranking as Turkey’s largest investor and Turkish investments in the Netherlands leading in Turkish foreign direct investment (FDI) for the past two years.” This year also commemorates the 60th anniversary of the TĂŒrkiye-Netherlands Labor Agreement, which has strengthened bilateral bonds through the nearly half-million-strong Dutch-Turkish community and their contributions to Dutch society. “Today we have an increasing trade volume of more than 13 billion Euros.

The Netherlands is the largest investor in TĂŒrkiye. Likewise, Turkish investments in the Netherlands are at the top for the last two years in terms of Turkish FDI overseas. Since the signing of the TĂŒrkiye-Netherlands Labor Agreement in 1964, the Dutch-Turkish community of nearly half a million people has made a great contribution to the Netherlands. That is why, we are also celebrating the 60th anniversary of the signature of the Labor Agreement this year.”

Ambassador Ünal highlighted recent developments, such as the opening of an Honorary Consulate General in Amersfoort, with Mr. Titus Kramer as Honorary Consul General, and the re-establishment of Turkey’s Treasury Office at the Embassy and Commercial AttachĂ© Office in Amsterdam. These advancements underscore Turkey’s commitment to deepening its ties with the Netherlands.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Ünal expressed gratitude for the swift condolences from Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, and other Dutch colleagues following the recent terrorist attack on a Turkish factory. Their solidarity reflects the shared resilience between the two nations.

The celebration concluded with a showcase of Turkish cuisine. Guests enjoyed an elaborate buffet featuring a fine selection of Turkish flavors, culminating in a spread of sweets showcasing the richness of Turkish gastronomy. This memorable evening was made possible through the support of Turkish Airlines, Credit Europe Bank, Edelstaal Group, Bereket Baklava, Laila Den Haag, and the dedicated team of the Turkish Residence.

Enhance Your diplomatic experience in the Netherlands with Dutch lessons from Taalthuis

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Enhance Your diplomatic experience in the Netherlands with Dutch lessons from Taalthuis

As a diplomat, making the most of your time in the Netherlands is essential. One of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in Dutch life is by learning the language. Taalthuis, a renowned Dutch language school, specializes in providing comprehensive language courses tailored specifically for higher educated professionals. Our programs are designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of Dutch culture and enhance your professional and social interactions.

Why learning Dutch matters for diplomats

Learning the local language can greatly enrich your experience in the Netherlands. From day-to-day communication in shops, restaurants, and public services, to professional interactions with local authorities, speaking Dutch opens doors and builds connections. At Taalthuis, we believe that understanding Dutch will not only enhance your personal life but also strengthen your professional relationships, allowing you to engage more meaningfully with the local community.

Flexible learning options to suit your busy schedule

Conveniently located on Frederik Hendiklaan in The Hague, Taalthuis offers a dynamic and engaging classroom experience. Our courses include all necessary materials, so you can focus entirely on learning. For diplomats with busy schedules, we also offer the flexibility of in-person group lessons at your embassy. Our experienced instructors will come directly to your office, ensuring you and your colleagues can benefit from Dutch lessons without needing to travel. If you prefer even more flexibility, our online courses are available, allowing you to learn from anywhere at any time.

Tailored language solutions

Many embassy staff members already benefit from our Dutch courses, and we invite you to join them. We also offer special quotes and customized learning programs for groups, ensuring that your language needs are fully met.

Contact us today

For more information or to discuss a tailored program, contact us at +31 23 3050305 or incompany@taalthuis.nl. Discover how Taalthuis can help you make the most of your time in the Netherlands by learning Dutch today!

Navigating International Divorce in the Netherlands: Insights from Antoine de Werd, GMW Lawyers’ Senior Partner

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Navigating International Divorce in the Netherlands: Insights from Antoine de Werd, GMW Lawyers’ Senior Partner

Antoine de Werd is a co-founder and senior partner at GMW Lawyers in The Hague. He specializes in (international) divorces. GMW Lawyers, a multi-service law firm with 35 specialized lawyers, is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year and is renowned for its commitment to clients both in the Netherlands and abroad, with a special focus on internationals.

As a family law attorney with a focus on internationals, what unique challenges do your clients face for divorce in the Netherlands?

If a spouse asks the court for a divorce, a divorce will follow. Legally it can’t be prevented. The primary legal ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, which only needs to be stated in the petition without requiring any proof or waiting period. This is different from some other countries. Dutch law also differs in the sense that it provides additional protection to the financially weaker party in a marriage. This plays a role in matters of spousal maintenance and the division of assets, especially when one spouse has significantly less income or fewer possessions than the other.

What makes the international aspect important in your divorce practice?

Besides Dutch laws and regulations, there are international legal laws and regulations that must be followed in the divorce of an international. We always first examine whether the Dutch court has jurisdiction. If the Dutch court has jurisdiction, the applicable law needs to be determined. This depends on nationality, length of stay in the Netherlands, and the country where the marriage was performed. A Dutch court might have jurisdiction, while it has to apply the law of another country.

As a family law attorney with a focus on internationals, what is striking in your divorce practice?
When I look at the large size of our legal expat practice, I have to note that relatively many internationals choose to divorce in the Netherlands. As I understand it, this is because the Dutch legal system is considered clear and fast. The Hague District Court handles many international divorces.

If you need advice in family law or other legal matters, please contact GMW lawyers in The Hague. We can work it out.

GMW lawyers ‱ gmw.nl
Scheveningseweg 52
2517 KW Den Haag
E-mail: info@gmw.nl
Telefoon: +31 (0)70 3615048

Special private donation for Museum Panorama Mesdag

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Special private donation for Museum Panorama Mesdag

Museum Panorama Mesdag has acquired a special acquisition from the Mercura collection through a private donation. It concerns the beach scene Fishing boats on the beach by ThĂ©ophile de Bock (1851-1904), one of his rare beach scenes. The painting has been restored and cleaned and has been given a special place in the exhibition Tastemakers of the 19th century . The new acquisition can be seen for the first time in Museum Panorama Mesdag from 31 October.

Place of honor

Museum Panorama Mesdag is very pleased with this gift. ThĂ©ophile de Bock is one of the four painters who, at the request of Hendrik Willem Mesdag (1831-1915), contributed to the Panorama of Scheveningen . Although Fishing Boats on the Beach is undated, there is a strong suspicion that De Bock painted it around the time he made his contribution to the Panorama. With the fishing boats on the beach and the impressive cloudy skies, it looks like a finger exercise for his contribution to the Panorama. The museum is thus acquiring a work that supplements and enriches knowledge about the Panorama. The donation of the painting is also important because seascapes or beach views by ThĂ©ophile de Bock are rare. Fishing Boats on the Beach will be given a place of honour among the works of the other painters of the Panorama that can be seen in the exhibition: Hendrik Willem Mesdag, George Breitner, Bernard Blommers and Sientje Mesdag-van Houten.

Théophile de Bock

Théophile de Bock was 29 years old and had only been active as an artist for a few years when Mesdag involved him in painting the Panorama. De Bock had devoted himself to painting landscapes since 1872, without any academic training.

Mesdag and De Bock were both active members of the Hague artists’ association Pulchri Studio and were both deeply impressed by the French painters of Barbizon, who set the trend among many European landscape painters with their inspired landscapes. Unlike Mesdag, ThĂ©ophile de Bock also went to work for a while in this artists’ colony in the forests near Fontainebleau, not far from Paris. De Bock had just returned from Barbizon in March 1881, where he had worked for nine months, a month before Mesdag was to execute his design for the Panorama on the immense canvas of 114.5 metres long and 14.6 metres high. Mesdag probably only involved the much younger painter in the project shortly beforehand. Together with Sientje Mesdag-van Houten, ThĂ©ophile de Bock painted large parts of the dunes and assisted Hendrik Willem Mesdag with the incomparable cloudy skies.

Adrienne Quarles van Ufford, Head of Museum Affairs: ‘De Bock’s Fishing Boats on the Beach immediately makes it clear why Hendrik Willem Mesdag fell in love with this artist. He realised that in De Bock he had found a good dune and cloud painter: the illusion of the Panorama stands or falls with the liveliness of nature and the clouds.’

‘Hail to the knights of the gray mist’

ThĂ©ophile de Bock often painted in the forests and dunes around The Hague. He used his imagination, the landscapes can rarely be traced back to a specific place. De Bock lived together with several artists and organised parties where fellow Hague School painters came. For the housewarming he hung a sign above the door: Tribute to the knights of the grey mist , referring to the cloudy skies for which they were known. As can be seen in this work and in the Panorama, he excelled in this himself.

Visit Vincent van Gogh

Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), a good friend of De Bock, fully appreciated the importance of De Bock’s contribution to the Panorama. Together they visited the spectacle on the Zeestraat in The Hague on 24 August 1881. Van Gogh wrote to his brother Theo that De Bock had ‘worked very seriously on that Panorama and that too will generally have a favourable influence on him, even though he himself does not want to admit it.’ De Bock, who would continue to paint landscapes throughout his life, later concentrated mainly on forest scenes. He is considered to belong to the group of painters of the Hague School.

An asset to the collection

Museum Panorama Mesdag manages the largest collection of paintings by Hendrik Willem Mesdag and Sientje Mesdag-van Houten and their contemporaries, to which this work is a wonderful addition.

Museum director Minke Schat: ‘We are extremely pleased and grateful that we can enrich the sub-collection of Mesdag’s contemporaries with this new acquisition. With the addition of this work to the museum collection, the museum can provide a broader context to the makers of the world-famous Panorama of Scheveningen .

Tastemakers of the 19th century

The exhibition Tastemakers of the 19th century shows works from the collection of Hendrik Willem Mesdag and Sientje Mesdag-van Houten, supplemented with a number of special new acquisitions and long-term private loans that have rarely or never been shown to the public. Using works of art and many historical photographs, a lively picture is painted of the trendsetters of that time. Who were they, why was their work trendsetting and what made them so inspiring?

The exhibition Tastemakers of the 19th Century can be seen until 02.03.2025 at Museum Panorama Mesdag in The Hague.

The 6th World Media Summit 2024  Urumqi Xinjiang China

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The 6th World Media Summit 2024  Urumqi Xinjiang China

By Roy Lie Atjam

The 6th World Media Summit was held in Urumqi City China, on October 14, 2024. The conference discussed AI’s impact on the media sector. More than 400 people from 106 countries attended, arranged by the Xinjiang Regional Government and China’s Xinhua News Agency.

The theme was AI and Media Transformation, emphasising how AI affects media globally.

At the summit, officials from the Central Government of China, Xinjiang regional government, Xinhua News Agency President Mr. Fu Hua, and World Media Forum member organisations delivered keynote speeches. Fu Hua, highlighted the agency’s 70% productivity increase in AI development, claiming it leads in AI in the media sector. Other speakers included Ma Xingrui, Chen Wenjim, and Erkin Tuniyaz, who praised the summit as an opportunity for journalists to experience Xinjiang first-hand.

The World Media Summit has strongly advocated for the responsible adoption of AI technologies while upholding journalistic ethics and standards. A   Significant 66% of the news media worldwide view the impact of generative AI positively, with 51.2% already implementing AI technologies. This optimistic outlook underscores the potential of AI to drive productivity in news media and foster new business models, instilling hope for a bright future. However, the report also cautions about the risks and challenges associated with AI’s uncertainty and misuse, including the spread of false information and its impact on public opinion and societal discourse.

Tamas Kovacs, CEO of Hungary’s ATV Media Group, underscored the importance of truth in news reporting and the media’s responsibility in the digital era. He also highlighted the value of collaboration between media outlets, especially in the context of new technologies. The report further addressed the ethical dilemmas facing AI development and governance, pointing out the potential widening of the intelligence divide between different groups and regions. It proposed that news media should prioritize the ethical use of AI, commit to a people-first approach, and promote intelligence for good in the era of AI, reassuring the audience about the responsible development of AI in the media industry.

The WMS report recommended that news media accelerate their initiatives driven by artificial intelligence, prioritise the ethical use of AI, accept their social responsibilities, and promote dialogue and cooperation to improve global governance. A survey revealed that 76.4% of respondents were concerned about the potential distortion and misrepresentation of news, while 61.1% expressed concerns about copyright and liability issues.

(241014) — URUMQI, Oct. 14, 2024 (Xinhua) — Participants attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Media Summit in Urumqi, capital city of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 14, 2024. The 6th World Media Summit opened on Monday morning in Urumqi, capital city of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Themed “Artificial Intelligence and Media Transformation,” the summit gathered over 500 participants from 106 countries and regions, including representatives of 208 mainstream media outlets, government agencies and international organizations. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)

Gan Ling-Sze, Vice President of Reuters News Agency for Asia Pacific, highlighted the increased risk of misinformation and disinformation associated with the rise of generative AI. Gan Ling-Sze emphasised the necessity for trusted news sources, robust fact-checking, and transparency.

During a meeting in Beijing, senior officials from primary global wire services stressed the importance of leveraging AI to enhance journalism while effectively managing the associated risks.

Attendees of the 6th World Media Summit watch performance at the grand bazaar in Urumqi, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)

The 6th World Media Summit program highlighted the vibrant cultural performances at both the Xinjiang Grand Theatre and the Xinjiang Art Theatre, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Additionally, the summit’s itinerary featured excursions to several points of interest in Xinjiang, including the Chin Energy Group Control Centre, the Urumqi Planning Exhibition Hall, the Xinjiang Islamic Institute, and the Tiansha Tiianchi scenic area, among others.

The 6th World Media Summit, held this year in Urumqi, was an extraordinary success. It empowered the media to navigate the complexities presented by AI confidently. The insights shared by participants illuminated how to harness the benefits of artificial intelligence while ethically addressing its potential challenges.

Attendees of the 6th World Media Summit experience camel riding at a desert in Turpan, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 16. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

25 years of Nordic embassies’ complex in Germany

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25 years of Nordic embassies’ complex in Germany

Monday, 21 October 2024, Berlin, Germany: A celebration took place at the complex of the Nordic Embassies in Germany located in Berlin-Tiergarten to mark twenty-five years since the complex building that encompasses the embassies of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden in one single location was built.

The Nordic embassies complex.

There is a Pan Nordic Building (Felleshus) normally used for receptions and cultural exhibitions. The building complex was designed by the architects Alfred Berger and Tiina Parkkinen and completed in 1999.  The building comprises six individual buildings enveloped by a green, copper clad, snaking wall. It is a unique construction for diplomatic missions worldwide. 

The state guests representing the Nordic countries gathered in front of the staircase in the Pan Nordic Building together with the German Federal President.

The official celebration included a commemoration and reception held at the Felleshus as well as a state banquet hosted by Germany’s Federal President Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace. The nordic states were represented respectively by Their Majesties The King (Frederik X) and Queen (Mary) of Denmark; The President of Finland, Alexander Stubb and Suzanne Elizabeth Innes-Stubb; The President of Iceland, Halla TĂłmasdĂłttir and Björn SkĂșlason; Their Royal Highnesses The Crown Prince (Haakon) and Crown Princess (Mette-Marit) of Norway; Their Royal Highnesses The Crown Princess (Victoria) of Sweden and Prince Daniel of Sweden. 
The City-State of Berlin was represented to the commemoration on Rauchstraße 1 by Senator for Culture and Social Cohesion Joe Chialo. 

The ambassadors of the five Nordic countries in Germany alongside the German Federal President and Ms Elke BĂŒdenbender.

For further information 

Allocution by the German Federal President at the Nordic Embassies complex building: https://www.bundespraesident.de/SharedDocs/Reden/DE/Frank-Walter-Steinmeier/Reden/2024/10/241021-Festakt-25Jahre-Nordische-Botschaften.html, https://www.bundespraesident.de/SharedDocs/Berichte/DE/Frank-Walter-Steinmeier/2024/10/241021-25-Jahre-Nordische-Botschaften.html

Swedish Royal House: https://www.kungahuset.se/english/archive/speeches/2024-10-22-hrh-the-crown-princess-speech-during-the-ceremony-celebrating-the-25th-anniversary-of-the-nordic-embassy-complex-in-berlin

Hospitality Meets Diplomacy: Inside the Leonardo Royal Hotel’s Diplomatic Success

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Hospitality Meets Diplomacy: Inside the Leonardo Royal Hotel’s Diplomatic Success

Located in the heart of The Hague, the Leonardo Royal Hotel has long been recognized as a prestigious “diplomatic hub,” attracting high-profile guests and hosting significant events that make a lasting impression. The hotel’s General Manager, Thomas Kortleve, has overseen its growing reputation in diplomatic circles while playing an active role in shaping the hospitality industry in The Hague. With a background rich in luxury hospitality, Thomas’s leadership goes beyond managing the hotel’s daily operations, as he spearheads initiatives that build connections between the diplomatic community, local businesses, and international organizations.

In this interview, Thomas shares his insights into what makes the Leonardo Royal Hotel so appealing to diplomats, his goals as the President of The Hague International Network, and the unique challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality industry in the city. He reflects on the significance of diplomatic events, such as National Days and international food festivals, and how these experiences enrich the hotel’s offerings. Thomas also touches on his personal motivations for staying deeply connected to The Hague’s international landscape, demonstrating his commitment to providing top-tier hospitality while contributing to the city’s ongoing growth.

Thomas Kortleve, General Manager, Leonardo Royal Hotel.

The Leonardo Royal Hotel has gained a reputation as a “diplomatic hub” in The Hague. What do you believe is the key to the hotel’s success in attracting and retaining such a prestigious clientele?

The hotel boasts a rich history dating back to the 1800s. The original building on this site was constructed in 1813 as a lodge for King Willem I. Over the years, the area has evolved, always embodying prestige and elegance, which laid the foundation for its reputation as a diplomatic hub. Its prime location near embassies and residences, coupled with decades of strong professional relationships with various embassies and ministries, further enhances this status. Our guest book reflects the many remarkable stories connected to the hotel and its surroundings, and we are dedicated to preserving this legacy.

As the President of The Hague International Network, what are your primary goals for the organization, and how do you see the network contributing to the city’s growth and international appeal?

As chairman of the ‘Haags Hotel Overleg’ (The Hague Hotel Consultation), I represent all 3, 4, and 5-star hotels in the greater The Hague area, alongside five fellow hoteliers on the board. Our mission is to enhance our members’ positions by advocating for their interests, promoting collaboration, and encouraging sustainability. We are dedicated to strengthening The Hague’s market presence and reputation, monitoring the economic landscape, and fostering a healthy labor market.

In addition, we strive to encourage social interaction among members, creating a close-knit community that supports and uplifts one another. We believe that by collaborating closely with other stakeholders in The Hague—such as cultural and artistic institutions, local entrepreneurs, and the municipality—we can create a stronger image for the city. This collective effort will attract the right markets and visitors year-round, showcasing the many offerings that The Hague has to offer.

Can you share some of the most memorable or impactful events that have been hosted at Leonardo Royal Hotel? How do these events reflect the hotel’s role in the diplomatic and expat communities?

Although I have only been here for a year, it feels much longer—certainly in a positive way. What truly stands out are the Food Festivals organized in collaboration with Diplomat Magazine and various embassies, as well as the National Days held at our hotel. We take great pride in hosting these events and welcoming such esteemed guests, who serve as ambassadors for our hotel. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed hosting my first annual ‘Haringparty,’ which provided us the opportunity to invite and express our gratitude to our clients, guests, and partners for their trust in our products and services.

What motivates you personally to stay so connected with the diplomatic and expat communities in The Hague? How does this connection influence the services and experiences offered at Leonardo Royal Hotel?

I have been working in the luxury hospitality industry in The Hague for quite some time now, and I can genuinely say that I enjoy collaborating with this distinguished clientele. Hosting events and providing services that strengthen and enhance their connections is incredibly fulfilling. The international landscape, with its embassies and organizations, plays a vital role in this city of peace and justice, and I am motivated to stay engaged in this community. We are committed to delivering high-quality, consistent service, as we deeply value our business and the loyalty our clients express.

Working closely with the Municipality of The Hague and other industry leaders, what do you see as the biggest challenges facing the hospitality and entertainment sectors in the city? How do you and the group of partners address these challenges?

There are always differing interpretations of the importance of a city’s economic well-being and how it translates into policy. It’s crucial to remember that we are not merely commercial enterprises; we are employers responsible for thousands of jobs, committed to education and working toward a cleaner, more sustainable city. Having just emerged from the challenges of COVID, we have yet to regain the performance levels we enjoyed in 2019.

Nonetheless, we are aware of plans to increase taxes on accommodations, culture, and sports to 21%. The industry that was most heavily impacted is now being targeted again to potentially generate additional income for the state. This approach risks making us less competitive, as other countries will become more appealing destinations on various levels.

We advocate for healthy and fair city marketing policies that will effectively promote The Hague both nationally and internationally, as it truly deserves. We do not face issues with mass tourism; in fact, an increase in visitors throughout the year would benefit many businesses and organizations, providing more budget for the city to invest in infrastructure, enhance congress facilities, and pursue sustainable initiatives.

We have lost many companies, cultural events, and musical gatherings over the past years, and we are eager to see them return to the city where they belong.

What are your next steps to accomplish yet?   

My mission, as stated when I began a year ago, remains ongoing: to introduce more guests to this remarkable hotel and showcase everything we have to offer. We are excited to prepare for the upcoming NATO summit, which we are proud to host as a city.

We will continue to nurture the healthy, long-standing relationships we have established while actively seeking new connections. Our commitment to providing exceptional service with genuine hospitality—true to our hotel’s rich history and status—will remain unwavering.

On a broader scale, we will persist in sharing our insights and offering our support to make this city even greater than it already is!

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