Specialist Prosecutor says rule of law must be upheld

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Specialist Prosecutor says rule of law must be upheld

In her opening statement at the commencement of the Thaçi et al. administration-of-justice trial today, Specialist Prosecutor Kimberly West said that former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi and his co-accused had “violated judicial decisions designed to ensure witnesses and victims could testify freely” and that such conduct “strikes at the rule of law”.

Former President Thaçi is charged with repeatedly and systematically attempting to interfere with witness testimony, by providing instructions on how witnesses in the separate war-crimes case against him should testify, and with violating multiple court orders aimed at protecting confidential witness information. His co-accused – Bashkim Smakaj, Isni Kilaj, Fadil Fazliu and Hajredin Kuçi – are charged with unlawfully participating in one or more of these crimes.

The accused “deliberately violated judicial decisions that were designed to ensure witnesses and victims could testify freely, without fear or influence, and could trust that their identities and words would remain confidential to the court and its parties,” the Specialist Prosecutor said.

“This conduct represents a clear and present danger to the rule of law, which requires that witnesses must be able to come to court and tell their stories free of pressure, influence or interference of any kind,” Ms West continued. “It is important for the legacy of this institution that these facts are adjudicated and aired publicly so that a true and credible record is created.”

“Upholding the rule of law means that no one is above the law. The law applies equally and everyone is accountable,” the Specialist Prosecutor said.

In addition to judicially authorised audio recordings of the accused discussing their plan to interfere with witness testimony, evidence that the SPO will present to the court in the trial includes (i) electronic evidence, including from seized mobile phones, which corroborates the recorded conversations of the accused, and (ii) physical evidence, including documents related to the targeting of witnesses for interference which were seized from the residences of certain of his co-accused. 

Three prosecution witnesses are scheduled to testify at trial, including expert testimony pertaining to the origin of seized documents and a witness providing evidence regarding the examination of the electronic devices seized in the course of this investigation.

South African Olive Oil Reaches Historic Global Ranking

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South African Olive Oil Reaches Historic Global Ranking

Mardouw Olive Estate Shatters Records at #24 Worldwide

Swellendam, Western Cape, South Africa – 25 February 2026

In an unprecedented milestone for South African agriculture, Mardouw Olive Estate has been ranked #24 in the 2025 EVOO World Rankings, becoming the highest-ranked South African producer ever. The achievement places South Africa at #12 globally among olive oil-producing nations, firmly positioning the country within the world’s premium extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) elite.

The accomplishment is all the more remarkable considering that South Africa produces approximately 1.6 million litres of olive oil annually—less than 1% of global production—while competing against Mediterranean giants such as Spain, Italy, and Greece, which together dominate roughly 95% of the world market. For a Southern Hemisphere producer to break into the Top 25 worldwide represents a significant shift in the traditional geography of olive oil excellence.

CEO of Mardouw, Gerbrand Nijman during the planing of Olive Trees at Mardouw.

A 25-Year Vision Realised

“We had this dream 25 years ago to produce world-class Extra Virgin Olive Oil and show the world what South Africa can do,” said André and Marijke Verder, Founders and Owners of Mardouw Olive Estate. “This ranking proves that a consistent, quality-first approach can overcome any disadvantage of scale. We’re competing with centuries-old Mediterranean estates, and we’re winning.”

Their vision began in the fertile soils of the Western Cape, where climate, terroir, and careful cultivation combine to create ideal conditions for premium olive production. Over the years, Mardouw has invested heavily in orchard management, harvesting precision, and processing excellence—laying the foundation for today’s global recognition.

2025: A Record-Breaking Year

Mardouw’s global #24 ranking crowns an extraordinary year of international success. Throughout 2025, the estate achieved a remarkable sweep at prestigious competitions across Europe and beyond. Among its most celebrated accomplishments was its triumph in Rome, where it secured multiple gold awards and the distinguished Best International Award (Southern Hemisphere).

“This global #24 position is a testimony to our dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation,” said Gerbrand Nijman, CEO of Mardouw Olive Estate. “We own our olive press, which ensures complete control from tree to bottle. Our same-day pressing protocol preserves volatile aroma compounds and antioxidants—particularly polyphenols—that give our oil its superior technical integrity.”

This vertical integration, combined with immediate cold extraction after harvest, ensures maximum freshness and chemical stability—key performance indicators in international EVOO competitions where sensory profile, acidity levels, and polyphenol content are rigorously evaluated.

Introducing Mardouw Olive Oil products. In the picture: Two diplomats members of the commercial team of the South African Embassy, Dr Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, Ambassador Madonsela and Gerbrand Nijman, CEO of Mardouw Olive Estate.

National Recognition and Government Support

During Mardouw’s official celebration function, Minister Dr. Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, expressed his pride in the estate’s achievement and highlighted its contribution to the growing export profile of South African agricultural products.

The recognition underscores the strategic importance of premium olive oil within South Africa’s high-value agricultural exports and reflects the broader ambition to diversify and elevate the country’s global agri-food reputation.

A Turning Point for South African Olive Oil

Mardouw’s historic ranking reflects a broader upward trajectory for South African EVOO producers. In 2025, several South African estates achieved top 10 placements globally, demonstrating that the country consistently outperforms its modest production volume on the international stage.

“This ranking puts South Africa on the map as a serious player in the premium EVOO market,” Nijman added. “We are proving that excellence is not defined by volume, but by dedication, innovation, and respect for the product.”

As global consumers increasingly seek traceability, sustainability, and superior sensory quality, South African producers are carving out a distinctive identity: boutique scale, technical precision, and uncompromising standards.

For Mardouw Olive Estate, the #24 global ranking represents the culmination of a 25-year journey and the beginning of a new chapter—one in which South African olive oil stands confidently among the world’s finest.

Kőszeg at the Heart of Global Peace Dialogue

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Kőszeg at the Heart of Global Peace Dialogue

Opening of the 8th UNESCO MOST Winter School

Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Rector of the United Nations University, and Balázs Hankó, Hungary’s Minister of Culture and Innovation, officially opened the 8th UNESCO MOST Winter School on 23 February.

This year’s week-long Winter School unfolded against a backdrop of historic progress: Kőszeg was selected as the site of the first United Nations University institute in the former Eastern Bloc. The new academic centre will be established through a landmark agreement between the Government of Hungary and the United Nations University, in partnership with the Institute of Advanced Studies Kőszeg (iASK). The institute will advance interdisciplinary research into the root causes of conflict, human security, and transformative technologies reshaping societies worldwide.

Sándor-palota – Dr. Sulyok Tamás köztársasági elnök

“We are a small town, but we are thinking big. What we began years ago as a conversation about a future university in Central and Eastern Europe has now become reality. With the United Nations University and our growing network of partners, we are building something that connects this region to a global vision.”
— Professor Ferenc Miszlivetz, Director-General of iASK

This year’s UNESCO MOST Winter School centred on the themes of lasting peace and human security — concepts that framed every panel, keynote and strategic discussion. From geopolitical alternatives and regional cooperation to transformative technologies and digital governance, the programme explored how peace must be understood as an active, long-term process grounded in social resilience, ethical responsibility and interdisciplinary knowledge.

János Bogárdi, Xiaomeng Shen, Ferenc Miszlivetz, Balázs Hankó, Tshilidzi Marwala

The convergence of this thematic focus with the official establishment of the new UNU institute was no coincidence. Its mission aligns directly with the goals articulated throughout the week: generating policy-relevant knowledge to strengthen multilateral governance and safeguard human dignity in a rapidly transforming world.

In his opening address, Minister Hankó marked the occasion with a clear statement of intent. Hungary, he said, is among the safest countries in the world and intends to remain so through excellence and innovation. The ambition is to place Hungary among the global top ten in innovation by 2030. The new UNU institute will operate at the intersection of peace, human security, science and social transformation, drawing on disciplines often underrepresented in technological debates — including the humanities, social sciences and cultural heritage studies.

“The best way of predicting the future is to shape it. This UNU will generate the knowledge needed to improve multilateral governance and help build a global society capable of meeting its obligations in peace, security and shared prosperity.”
— Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University and United Nations Under-Secretary-General

The announcement resonated deeply in a room filled with those who have witnessed the idea evolve from conversation to commitment. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay, President of the UNESCO National Commission of Hungary, President of the UN Association of Hungary, and Founder of Women4Diplomacy International, recalled the early discussions she shared with Ferenc Miszlivetz, Jody Jensen and the late Professor Hankiss.

“It is wonderful to see a vision create reality. Kőszeg is the perfect embodiment of what the MOST programme stands for: building bridges between research, policy and social transformation.”
— Ambassador Katalin Bogyay

H.E. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay.

International partners echoed this sentiment. Xiaomeng Shen, Vice-Rector in Europe and Director of UNU-EHS, highlighted the sustained cooperation that made the institute possible. Philippe De Lombaerde, Director of UNU-CRIS, praised the spirit of Kőszeg and the remarkable institutional development achieved in recent years.

A defining milestone of the Winter School was the reception of the United Nations University and iASK delegation by President Tamás Sulyok at Sándor Palace. During the meeting, Professor Marwala and the President engaged in a forward-looking strategic dialogue on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. The discussion focused not only on innovation but also on responsibility — examining how governance systems, ethical standards and multilateral cooperation must evolve alongside emerging technologies. The exchange underscored Hungary’s growing role in shaping global AI governance and reinforced a shared commitment to ensuring that technological advancement serves humanity.

8th UNESCO MOST Winter School.

This year’s Winter School demonstrated remarkable international reach. Students from 23 countries participated, bringing diverse academic and cultural perspectives to the dialogue. Panelists and keynote speakers represented 16 countries, reflecting a truly global exchange of ideas spanning Europe and the Balkans to Africa and North America. The breadth of participation reinforced one central message: peace and human security are shared responsibilities that transcend borders.

As the 8th UNESCO MOST Winter School concluded, one message was clear: Kőszeg is not only hosting global dialogue — it is helping to shape global governance. With the establishment of a United Nations University institute in the town, vision has become reality, and the future of peace and human security has gained a permanent institutional home in Hungary.

11 Arrests in Takedown of Fraudulent Call Centre

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11 Arrests in Takedown of Fraudulent Call Centre

International cooperation between Latvian, Lithuanian and Ukrainian authorities, coordinated by Eurojust, has led to the dismantling of a fraudulent call centre operating from three offices in Ukraine. The network targeted victims across Europe through a fake cryptocurrency investment scheme.

Initial investigations identified at least nine victims in Latvia and Lithuania who collectively lost more than EUR 160 000. Authorities believe the total number of victims across Europe is significantly higher.

The call centre, based in Dnipro, operated a well-established fraud scheme. Victims were lured with promises of high returns on cryptocurrency investments. Once initial payments were made, the suspects demanded additional funds under the pretext of legal assistance to recover allegedly lost assets. Using remote access software, call centre employees gained control over victims’ devices and transferred money to the group’s bank accounts and cryptocurrency wallets.

Following reports from victims, a joint investigation team (JIT) was established at Eurojust, enabling Latvian, Lithuanian and Ukrainian authorities to coordinate efforts. Meetings held at Eurojust’s premises in The Hague facilitated the exchange of intelligence and the planning of a coordinated action day in Ukraine. Eurojust also provided financial support, allowing investigators from Latvia and Lithuania to participate in the operation on the ground.

On 17 February, Ukrainian authorities carried out coordinated searches at 32 locations. The operation resulted in the arrest of 11 suspects. Ten individuals were placed in pre-trial detention, while one suspect was ordered to remain under house arrest.

Authorities seized electronic equipment, documents, computers and SIM cards, as well as approximately EUR 400 000 in cash, two cryptocurrency wallets and eight luxury vehicles. Investigations are ongoing as the seized electronic evidence is analysed.

Authorities involved:

Latvia: Rīga Judicial Region Prosecution Office; Cybercrime Enforcement Department of the Central Criminal Police Department of the State Police of Latvia.

Lithuania: Klaipėda Regional Prosecutor’s Office; Klaipėda County Police Headquarters.

Ukraine: Dnipropetrovsk Regional Prosecutor’s Office; Main Department of the National Police in Dnipropetrovsk Region; Security Service of Ukraine, Dnipropetrovsk Region Division.

Ambassador Shen Bo Hosts First Reception in The Hague to Mark Assumption of Duty and Celebrate Chinese New Year

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Ambassador Shen Bo Hosts First Reception in The Hague to Mark Assumption of Duty and Celebrate Chinese New Year

On 29 January, H.E. Mr. Shen Bo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, hosted his first official reception at the Embassy of China in The Hague following the presentation of his credentials to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander.

The event, held on the occasion of his Assumption of Duty and in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year, gathered ambassadors, heads of mission, representatives of international organizations, Dutch officials and ministers, and distinguished members of the Chinese diaspora. The grand reception hall of the embassy was filled to capacity. Among the special guests were H.E. Mr. Robert Tieman, Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Netherlands, and Ambassador Fernando Arias, Director-General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

In his remarks, Ambassador Shen Bo warmly welcomed the attendees: “On behalf of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Chinese Permanent Mission to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, and also in my own name, I would like to extend my warmest welcome and heartfelt thanks to all of you for your presence.”

Referring to his recent arrival, he noted: “I arrived in the Netherlands on 9 December last year, and last week had the honor of presenting Letters of Credence to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, as well as Letter of Credentials to the Director-General of the OPCW. The Government of the Netherlands and the relevant international organizations have provided thoughtful, friendly, and efficient assistance, for which I would like to express my sincere appreciation.”

Highlighting historical parallels between the two nations, the Ambassador drew a symbolic comparison between Dutch water management achievements and one of China’s most iconic landmarks: “The Great Wall, built by the Chinese people over centuries, also stands as a representative symbol of the Chinese nation and an important emblem of Chinese civilization, embodying the spirit of perseverance and self-improvement, as well as the patriotic dedication, unity, and resilience of the Chinese people. These two great feats of engineering, spanning time and space, reflect each other and vividly showcase a shared spirit between the Chinese and Netherlands peoples: unyielding determination and a pioneering mindset.”

Ambassador Shen recalled the 2014 state visit of President Xi Jinping to the Netherlands, during which both countries established an “Open and Pragmatic Partnership for Comprehensive Cooperation,” describing it as “a new start of our bilateral relations.”

He emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and dialogue in a changing global landscape: “We should work together to fortify the bulwark of multilateralism, free trade, and economic globalization, ensuring that the door of dialogue remains open and the bridge of communication remains open, while enhancing mutual understanding and bridging differences through candid exchange.” On the state of bilateral relations, he underlined: “There are no fundamental conflicts of interest between China and the Netherlands, nor are there issues that cannot be properly managed. We should respond to the uncertainties of a turbulent world through the stability of our bilateral relations, and contribute China-Netherlands strength to peace and development for all humanity.”

Turning to China’s domestic development, Ambassador Shen highlighted recent economic milestones:

“In 2025, China’s GDP surpassed the threshold of 140 trillion Yuan, with economic growth reaching 5 percent over the previous year, which marks a successful conclusion to the 14th Five-Year Plan.” He added that the new Five-Year Plan would open further opportunities for international cooperation: “China will promote high-standard opening up, create new horizons for mutually beneficial cooperation, and secure further progress in building a community with a shared future for humanity.”

Speaking about his diplomatic priorities in the Netherlands, Ambassador Shen expressed confidence in the future of bilateral ties: “I have been deeply impressed by the solid foundation, vast potential, and dynamic vitality of the cooperation between China and Netherlands, which fills me with confidence and ambition for the future of our bilateral relations.”

Looking ahead to the Year of the Horse, he concluded with a hopeful message:

“Let us charge ahead like horses with courage, vitality, and energy, fight for our dreams and our happiness, and turn our great vision into beautiful realities.”

The evening concluded with a toast to the prosperity and friendship between China and the Netherlands. Guests were treated to a vibrant cultural programme featuring traditional dances and artistic performances, followed by an extensive buffet showcasing authentic Chinese gastronomy, marking the festive spirit of the upcoming Lunar New Year.

The Women of Malolos: A José Rizal Masterpiece

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The Women of Malolos: A José Rizal Masterpiece

By Anton Lutter

Today, February 22, 2026, marks the 137th anniversary of one of the most significant works of Filipino literature and early feminist thought: José Rizal’s To the Young Women of Malolos (Sa Mga Kabataang Dalaga sa Malolos).

Written in 1889 in London, this was not merely a letter of praise; it was a manifesto for intellectual liberation. It offered both encouragement and a bold critique of the social constraints imposed upon Filipino women. Here, we revisit the context, the courage of these women, and the timeless wisdom Rizal imparted.

In December 1888, a group of 20 young women from Malolos, Bulacan, did the unthinkable: they challenged the authority of the local parish friar. At a time when women were expected to be demure and subservient, they petitioned Governor-General Valeriano Weyler (1888–1891) for permission to open a night school where they could learn Spanish.

Despite fierce opposition from the friar, the women persisted until their request was granted. News of this “quiet revolution” reached Filipino reformist Marcelo H. del Pilar in Spain, who urged Rizal—then in London—to write a message of encouragement to these “brave sisters.”

Rizal’s primary aim was to dismantle the “sanctified” ignorance imposed by certain members of the clergy. He argued that true holiness is grounded in reason, not in the mechanical performance of rituals. As he wrote:

“God, the fountain of wisdom, does not expect man, created in His image, to allow himself to be blinded and deceived. The gift of reason, which was given us, must be brightened and utilized.”

Rizal understood that the character of a nation is forged in the home. He placed immense responsibility on mothers, viewing them as the first teachers of the Filipino people. He warned that a mother who teaches only submission raises a child fit only for servitude.

“If the Filipino woman will not change her mode of being, let her not rear children, but rather deliver them to the state. She must inspire her son with the love of honor, love of country, and the fulfillment of duty.”

He believed that an educated and principled mother would raise citizens capable of defending their rights. For Rizal, a woman’s “sweetness” or “beauty” was secondary to her intellectual fortitude and moral courage.

It is remarkable that Rizal composed this letter while deeply immersed in his scholarly work in London. At the time, he was annotating Antonio de Morga’s Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas (republished in 1890) to demonstrate that Filipinos possessed a rich and sophisticated culture prior to Spanish colonization. Yet he considered this letter equally vital.

Rizal recognized that nation-building is not solely a political act; it is also cultural and domestic. He wrote:

“Now that you have responded to our first appeal in the interest of the welfare of the people… we shall be able to say: Victory is real, for the seed is sown.”

One hundred thirty-seven years later, Rizal’s words remain a sharp critique of complacency. In an era marked by misinformation and shifting social norms, his call to awaken the mind is more relevant than ever.

As we honor the women of Malolos, we are reminded that a single act of courage—such as petitioning for a night school—can ignite a movement that resonates for generations.

Alisher Navoi: Cultural Diplomacy Through Literature

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Alisher Navoi: Cultural Diplomacy Through Literature

Shaping Uzbekistan’s Sublime Literary Achievements

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Brussels hosted a literary soirée on February 4, 2026, to celebrate the 585th anniversary of the poet Alisher Navoi, a key figure in Uzbek classical literature.

Born on February 9, 1441, in Herat, Alisher Navoi significantly influenced the cultural identity of the Uzbek people and humans civilization.

The event, moderated by historian Derya Soysal, began with remarks by H.E. Mr. Gayrat Fozilov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan in Belgium, who graciously welcomed his guests from Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. In his address, Ambassador Gayrat Fozilov stated the following:

“A key initiative is the establishment of the Alisher Navoi National The library in Tashkent, which houses an extensive collection of his works and scholarly research. This library serves as a central hub for preserving and promoting his literary and philosophical contributions. The government has supported the translation of Navoi’s works into several languages, such as English, Turkish, Arabic and others.

Historian Derya Soysal, during her presentation at the Embassy of Uzbekistan.

At the international level, Uzbekistan has strengthened cultural diplomacy through the establishment of prestigious literary awards, the unveiling of monuments abroad, and active engagement within Turkic cooperation frameworks to highlight Navoi’s humanistic and unifying ideals.

Furthermore, major investments have been made in cultural and educational infrastructure, including the creation of research centres and the opening of Uzbek language and culture institutes overseas.

These initiatives reflect Uzbekistan’s commitment to ensuring that Alisher Navoi’s literary, philosophical, and cultural heritage continues to inspire scholarship and intercultural dialogue worldwide.

Additionally, Uzbekistan annually celebrates Navoi’s birth with national and international events, including conferences, academic discussions and cultural performances.This year, to mark the 585th anniversary of Alisher Navoi, a major International symposium titled “Alisher Navoi and the Eastern Renaissance” is being held in Tashkent, attracting participants from over 30 countries.

Furthermore, plans are underway to establish “the Alisher Navoi Foundation in the Benelux countries. This foundation will focus on advancing Navoi’s global legacy, promoting Uzbek culture, and preserving his humanistic, literary, and scientific contributions. It will also support growing Uzbek communities, help them maintain their cultural identity and national values.

Through various initiatives, the foundation will ensure that Navoi’s legacy continues to inspire future generations and foster cross- cultural dialogue.

Uzbek dinner buffet.

As we mark the 585th anniversary of Alisher Navoi, we pay tribute to his enduring legacy as both a poet and a visionary who profoundly shaped the cultural and intellectual landscape of his time and far beyond. Let us continue to study his works, reflect on his profound teachings, and strive to uphold the spirit of creativity, wisdom, and humanism that he so generously shared with the world. Thank you all for joining us and being part of this significant occasion.”

An Uzbek dinner buffet, highlighted by the exquisite flavour of “plov”, brought a delightful close to the captivating and memorable evening of Uzbek literature.

Greece Doubles Contribution to Support Victim-Centred Justice at the ICC

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Greece Doubles Contribution to Support Victim-Centred Justice at the ICC

The Hellenic Republic, a State Party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) since 2002, has doubled its voluntary contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) to EUR 30,000, reaffirming its strong commitment to international justice and to the rights of victims of crimes under the Rome Statute.

Greece’s unrestricted contribution will support efforts to redress the harm suffered by victims of Rome Statute crimes through the implementation of reparations awards ordered by the ICC, as well as through other programmes aimed at their rehabilitation and well-being.

Welcoming the increased contribution, H.E. Mr. Kevin Kelly, Member of the Board of Directors of the TFV, stated: “The Hellenic Republic’s enhanced contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims is particularly significant, as it comes at an important moment for the Court and demonstrates that reparative justice for victims remains central to international accountability efforts. I strongly encourage other States to support the victim-centred mandate of the Trust Fund for Victims through voluntary contributions.”

H.E. Ms. Caterina Ghini, Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, added: “Greece reaffirms its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court and its mandate to deliver justice to victims of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community. Through its voluntary contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims, Greece expresses its solidarity with survivors and affected communities, underscoring the importance of reparative measures, rehabilitation, and sustainable assistance. Greece remains committed to strengthening accountability, promoting the rule of law, and ensuring that victims remain at the heart of international justice efforts.”

The Hellenic Republic has been providing regular voluntary contributions to the Trust Fund for Victims since 2024, reflecting its growing engagement in support of victim-centred justice at the ICC.

Palimpsest Worlds

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Palimpsest Worlds

Art Exhibition in the Context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026

As part of the Cultural Programme of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus presents Palimpsest Worlds, a multidisciplinary art exhibition hosted at the renowned Pulchri Studio in The Hague.

Artists: Toula Liasi, Elena Parouti, Irene Stavrou, Eva Stavrou
Venue: Lange Voorhout 15, 2514 EA The Hague
Dates: 26 March – 26 April 2026
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00–17:00

The opening evening will feature a live performance by Cypriot flautist and composer Eva Stavrou, presenting her original composition Breaths.

An Artistic Metaphor for Europe

Palimpsest Worlds is an artistic metaphor for European identity itself — a coexistence of multiple voices, histories, and cultures sharing a common present. The exhibition unfolds as a parallel and interactive journey through time, bridging past and present, tradition and contemporary creation.

The exhibition offers an artistic commentary on cultural diversity and the continuous dialogue between heritage and modern expression. It reflects Europe as an open narrative — constantly rewritten, layered, and reinterpreted.

Visual artist Toula Liasi, in collaboration with the 4ELEGY Project (Elena Parouti and Irene Stavrou), explores the concept of the palimpsest through layered compositions in which traces of history remain visible, engaging in dialogue with the present. Eva Stavrou’s music functions as a sonic bridge, enriching the visual dimension and enhancing the exhibition’s multilayered character.

Together, the artists highlight different aspects of Cypriot history, presenting a rich cultural identity shaped by memory, displacement, craftsmanship, and resilience.

The Artists

Toula Liasi approaches the palimpsest as a metaphor for memory. Her photographic and painted collages, part of her project Synchronising History, draw inspiration from her ancestral home in Agia Triada, in the northern part of Cyprus — an area under Turkish control since 1974. Through textiles and family objects, she transforms personal memory into universal reflection. Liasi studied Fine Arts in Athens and at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague, where she has lived and worked since 1980.

The 4ELEGY Project, founded in 2021 by architect Elena Parouti and communications professional Irene Stavrou, reinterprets Cypriot archaeological mosaic patterns into dynamic textile and three-dimensional forms. Their work creates a dialogue between material, movement, and historical continuity.

Eva Stavrou is one of the most active flautists of her generation and specialises in contemporary music. She has performed across Europe and collaborated with leading composers. Her debut solo album is scheduled for release in 2026.

Palimpsest Worlds promises to be a compelling cultural highlight of the Cyprus EU Presidency.

Netherlands Swears in New Cabinet: Coalition of D66, VVD and CDA

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Netherlands Swears in New Cabinet: Coalition of D66, VVD and CDA

By Anton Lutter

On 23 February 2026, the Netherlands will formally inaugurated its new national government, informally known as the Jetten Cabinet — a centre-right minority coalition led by D66, the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), and the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA).

The cabinet holds just 66 of the 150 seats in the House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) and only 22 of the 75 seats in the Senate (Eerste Kamer). As a result, it must seek cooperation from opposition parties to pass legislation. Minority governments are rare in Dutch political history; the last comparable case was the short-lived Colijn V cabinet, which fell in 1939 after just two days of debate on its government declaration.

At 38, Rob Jetten is poised to become the youngest Prime Minister in Dutch history, breaking a record held by Ruud Lubbers since 1982. After serving as Minister for Climate and Energy in Rutte IV (2022–2024), Jetten led D66 to a surprising 26-seat victory, campaigning on a pragmatic and “can-do” platform.

Jetten has described this administration as a “cabinet of collaboration,” signalling that his government will depend heavily on broad negotiation and cross-party support due to its minority position. His priorities include strengthening economic resilience, expanding access to education and housing, and reinforcing the Netherlands’ role in European and international affairs.

Government Priorities and Core Policy Plans

The coalition agreement, titled “Getting to Work — Building a Better Netherlands,” outlines the government’s main ambitions for the legislative term.

Economic and Budget Goals

  • The government will maintain the mortgage interest deduction, a key demand of VVD voters.
  • To fund major spending increases — particularly in defence — it proposes a new tax surcharge dubbed a “Freedom Contribution” (Vrijheidsbijdrage). Estimates suggest this could raise several billion euros annually.
  • The cabinet emphasises fiscal discipline, aiming to keep the budget deficit below 2% of GDP.

Healthcare and Welfare

  • The healthcare deductible (“eigen risico”) will increase from approximately €385 to around €460, although safeguards will limit cost exposure per treatment.
  • Social welfare reforms include shortening the duration of unemployment benefits and revising eligibility criteria. These measures are expected to be politically sensitive and will require opposition support to pass.

Housing and Environment

  • The cabinet plans increased investment to address the nitrogen emissions crisis and unlock stalled housing construction projects. It also proposes annual income checks for social housing eligibility and regulatory simplification to accelerate development.

Education and Research

  • The government has reversed previously planned cuts to education and will allocate approximately €1.5 billion to schools and research institutions, including support for vocational and higher education.

Security and Defence

  • A defining priority is a substantial increase in defence spending to meet NATO commitments, with the coalition expressing support for raising defence expenditure toward 3.5% of GDP by the early 2030s.
  • In response to the volatile geopolitical climate, the cabinet is introducing the Vrijheidsbijdrage (Freedom Contribution) to finance a €19 billion expansion of the armed forces.
  • Planned investments also include strengthening national security infrastructure and expanding cybercrime capabilities.

The greatest challenge facing the new government is not its policy agenda, but parliamentary arithmetic. With only 66 seats in the House of Representatives and a significant shortfall in the Senate, Jetten’s cabinet must govern with what he has described as an “outstretched hand.” Every legislative proposal will require negotiation and support from opposition parties such as GL–PvdA or BBB.

“We are a ‘small large party’ in a divided house,” Jetten recently stated. “Success will not come from a majority, but from the quality of our compromises.”

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