From April 18 to 21, the Westergasfabriek in Amsterdam became the epicenter for wine lovers during the prestigious ‘Amsterdam Wine Festival’. This B2C (business to consumer) event offered visitors the opportunity to taste a varied selection of wines from around the world. In this edition, dedicated to wines from the southern hemisphere, the participation of Peru stood out, represented by the company “La Bodega Vinos”.
Peru at Peru’s successful participation in the Amsterdam Wine Festival.
Peruvian presence at the festival
La Bodega Vinos, directed by Arjan Kiel, made its presence felt with a stand offering the acclaimed Intipalka wines. This name, which means “Valley of the Sun” in Quechua, honors its origin in the Ica Valley, a region known for its ideal climate and soils for wine agriculture. The Intipalka vineyards, located 500 meters above sea level and more than 60 km from the coast, benefit from a desert climate with great thermal amplitude and soils rich in magnesium, which contributes to the exceptional quality of the wines.
To encourage the purchase of Peruvian wine during the festival, La Bodega Vinos offered an attractive prize: a trip to Peru for two people. Attendees who purchased a bottle of Peruvian wine at the stand on Thursday or Sunday of the event had the opportunity to participate in a drawing for two round-trip tickets to Peru, plus a night at Intipalka’s vineyards. This prize not only encouraged the sale of the wines, but also aroused great interest in wine tourism in Peru.
Peru’s successful participation in the Amsterdam Wine Festival 2024.
The Amsterdam Wine Festival is a well-established event with two annual editions: in March, focusing on wines from the southern hemisphere, and in September, on wines from the northern hemisphere. In 2023, the festival attracted more than 26,500 visitors between the two editions, reflecting its popularity and reach.
With a strong social media presence (over 22,000 followers on Facebook and 8,000 on Instagram), and a newsletter with 98,000 subscribers, the festival ensures a wide reach for exhibitors.
Henry Torres, from the Peruvian Embassy.
The success of Intipalka
Founded in 2008, Intipalka has positioned itself as a representative brand of Peruvian viticulture. With technified vineyards and manual harvests, its wines are vinified at controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks and aged in French and American oak barrels. Intipalka’s presence at the festival not only raised Peru’s name in the wine world, but also opened up new market opportunities and international promotion.
Peru’s participation in the Amsterdam Wine Festival was undoubtedly a great success, demonstrating the quality and potential of Peruvian wines in the competitive European market. With innovative promotional strategies and high quality products, Intipalka and La Bodega Vinos have left a lasting impression on festival attendees, consolidating Peru’s reputation as a producer of exceptional wines.
The role of the International Criminal Justice in Upholding Accountability for the Crime of Genocide – 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi in Rwanda
By Beatrice Levorato Barsotti
On May 22nd, the Embassy of Rwanda and the Embassy of France organized a conference on the ‘Role of International Criminal Justice in Upholding Accountability for the Crime of Genocide’ in the context of the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The conference was held at Peace Palace in The Hague, and featured high-profile participants involved in the judicial process following the genocide. These included Judge Graciela Gatti Santana, President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT); Aimable Havugiyaremye, Prosecutor General at the National Public Prosecution Authority in Rwanda; Guillaume Lefevre Pontalis, Deputy Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor of France; and Prof. Dr. Carsten Stahn, Professor of International Criminal Law & Global Justice at Leiden University.
H.E. Mr. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and H.E. Mr. François Alabrune, Ambassador of France to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, opened the conference with their opening remarks.
In his opening remarks, the Rwandan Ambassador underscored the devastating impact of the genocide, which resulted in over a million deaths within three months, the destruction of Rwanda’s economy and infrastructure, and the displacement of millions. He addressed the immense challenges faced by the new government in seeking justice amid the widespread loss of judicial personnel and infrastructure. The Ambassador detailed the three-pronged approach to ensuring accountability through Rwandan national jurisdictions, foreign tribunals, and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR). He expressed hope that the conference would provide valuable insights into the successes and challenges of the ICTR and contribute to the broader understanding of how international criminal justice can effectively prosecute genocide suspects. The Ambassador concluded by encouraging a fruitful and interactive debate among the diplomatic, academic, and legal communities present.
“I hope that the debate will be as informative and interactive as possible, and could enable the diplomatic, academic and legal communities in The Hague to draw lessons from the 1994 genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi, and reflect on the best way to ensure accountability and to prosecute, in an effective manner, suspects of genocide.” Said Ambassador Nduhungirehe.
H.E. Mr. Alabrune, Ambassador of France, drew attention to two critical and contemporary questions: what lessons can we draw from the genocide of the Tutsis in Rwanda, and have these lessons been integrated into the fight against impunity for the crime of genocide? Reflecting on the friendship between France and Rwanda, the Ambassador emphasized the themes of memory and justice. He highlighted the duty to remember and combat negationism to prevent history from repeating itself and to facilitate reconciliation and recovery for the victims. The Ambassador also noted that in response to the genocide, which unfolded before the eyes of the international community, the United Nations Security Council established the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) on 8 November 1994, based in Arusha, Tanzania. The ICTR was tasked with trying those responsible for the genocide against the Tutsis and was the first international tribunal to rule specifically on genocide, carrying forward the legacy of the Nuremberg Tribunal. The ICTR pioneered many aspects of international criminal justice, setting important precedents for future tribunals.
Ambassador Alabrune said: “The international community witnessed the last genocide of the 20th century. This kwibuka, this commemoration participates in this work and this duty of memory. The duty to remember is not only to remember; it is remembering so as not to repeat. The duty to remember also means fighting against negationism.”
Judge Graciela Gatti-Santana highlighted the significance of the conference in reflecting on the achievements of international criminal justice in prosecuting genocide suspects and emphasized the importance of international cooperation. The judge acknowledged the pioneering role of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) and its successor, the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (MICT), in defining and prosecuting genocide. She underscored the crucial role of national and international collaboration in achieving these milestones and emphasized the need for continued efforts to ensure accountability and combat impunity. She also highlighted the importance of disseminating the jurisprudence of international judicial mechanisms to prevent genocide denial and revisionism.
Starting with a reflection on the beauty of the landscapes of Rwanda, Mame Mandiaye Niang, Deputy Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, delved into the challenges of dispensing justice amidst the lingering anguish and resentment following the atrocities of 1994. Having witnessed firsthand the aftermath of genocide, as well as the arduous processes of investigation and prosecution, before ascending to the judiciary himself, Niang recounted the palpable dissatisfaction with the international community. The discontent emanated from all sides: perpetrators saw the ICTR as biased toward the victors, while neither victims nor perpetrators found solace in its proceedings. Kenya’s pivotal decision to cooperate in 1997 marked a turning point, facilitating the apprehension of numerous leaders and the establishment of a detention center. Mr. Havuguyaremye emphasized a poignant message: the transformative power of justice in reclaiming the humanity denied to those scarred by unspeakable atrocities.
Aimable Havugiyaremye, Prosecutor General at National Public Prosecution Authority of Rwanda, intervened on the national reconciliation in Rwanda, the process and challenges in the past and today. To understand the genocide against the Tutsi, he stressed the importance of examining Rwanda’s history, particularly the transformation of social classes into ethnic divisions by colonial powers. Before colonization, Rwandan society was organized into fluid social classes—Tutsi, Hutu, and Twa—based on occupation and wealth, with minimal conflict. However, Belgian colonizers, employing a divide and conquer strategy, rigidified these classes into fixed ethnic identities by introducing identity cards and favoring the Tutsi minority, thereby exacerbating social inequalities and fostering resentment. This colonial manipulation laid the groundwork for ethnic tensions that erupted into violence, notably during the 1959 Social Revolution, and culminated in the 1994 genocide. The General Prosecutor described the Rwandan Patriotic Front’s (RPF) liberation war beginning in 1990, aimed at fighting injustice. By 1994, the genocide was in full execution, leaving Rwanda devastated with mass killings and a shattered nation. Post-genocide, the critical challenge was to deliver justice amidst a destroyed judicial infrastructure and a populace in flight.
Reconciliation efforts focused on rebuilding the social fabric without revenge, eradicating the culture of impunity, and reconstructing a unified national identity. The establishment of Gacaca courts, despite criticism, allowed for community-based justice, addressing the massive number of genocide suspects. These courts were crucial in processing cases rapidly and ensuring accountability.
Challenges persisted, including identifying suspects who had changed names, ensuring political will for prosecutions, and addressing refugee statuses complicating extradition. The General Prosecutor underscored the importance of international judicial cooperation and combating genocide negationism, which remains a painful reminder of past atrocities. He concluded by affirming that the pursuit of justice is an ongoing, generational struggle, essential for global accountability and the prevention of future genocides.
Guillaume Lefevre Pontalis, Deputy Anti Terrorist Prosecutor of France, explained the efforts made in France to prosecute suspected perpetuators and current challenges, as well as the joint efforts to fight impunity. The main challenge highlighted by the Deputy was the initial challenge of creating some sort of jurisdiction, creating an expertise pool with historical and technical knowledge on the genocide in Rwanda. They had to wait until 2012 to create in Paris a centralised unit. They applied the universal jurisdicition principle – given that the persons persecuted were not French, and the crime wasn’t committed in France. The Deputy highlighted the challenges stemming from the fact that it was not their jurisdiction, hence they lacked important materials as archives, evidence. These difficulties were exacerbated by the fact that the crime had been committed 20 years ago. The deputy underscored the improtance of criminal, justical and police cooperation in this context. Finally, he explained the symbolic improtance of 2024. In fact, there will be two processes. In general, he stressed that judgin will remain one of France priorities, new investigations are nearing completion and should lead to new projects in the years to come.
In conclusion of the Conference, Prof. dr. Carsten Stahn emphasized the importance of the past in moving forward, underscoring that commemoration not only honors the dead but also aids survivors in rebuilding their lives, which he deemed more vital than legal frameworks. He highlighted how the unique Dutch approach to international criminal justice, similar to Rwanda’s Gacaca courts, facilitated reconciliation by incorporating local contexts and allowing victims to see justice served, sometimes between neighbors and former enemies. Reflecting on Rwanda’s history, he noted the colonial manipulation that transformed social classes into rigid ethnic divisions, sowing seeds of conflict that erupted into the 1994 genocide. He echoed the Attorney General’s insights on the importance of judicial cooperation and the fight against impunity, stressing the development of international legal standards to combat genocide.
The Professor pointed out the enduring challenges in preventing genocide, incitement to genocide, proving genocidal intent, and preventing violence, but also noted positive developments like the creation of the International Criminal Court and evolving case law that mandates states to prevent mass atrocities extraterritorially. He praised innovative legal approaches that prosecute incitement to genocide even without subsequent crimes, and he highlighted the critical role of media in either promoting or preventing hate. The Professor concluded by emphasizing the need for robust international cooperation and continuous efforts to strengthen legal mechanisms and prevent future genocides, drawing lessons from Rwanda’s painful history and the ongoing struggle for justice and reconciliation.
A unique collaboration between the Dutch-Costa Rican Chamber of Commerce-Holland House Costa Rica and Costa Rican governmental authorities based in the Netherlands, has led to an exciting exploration of the advanced business, production and social world of the Netherlands. This mission, coordinated with the assistance of the Costa Rican Embassy and the Procomer office in the Netherlands, has marked a milestone in the exchange of knowledge and the promotion of sustainable innovation in Central America.
For eight days, a delegation comprising of several Costa Rican companies and business initiatives, had the opportunity to dive into the heart of Dutch sustainable business strategies, exploring innovative practices ranging from agribusiness to health, retail, construction, urban design and recycling. The overriding objective: to learn from leading Dutch sustainability and regeneration companies to drive sustainable development in the Central American region. Dos Pinos, Philips, CRDC Global, Penseed, Sol Naciente, Dutch Power Group y A-01 were among the participating companies from the Costa Rican side.
H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica to the Netherlands.
This mission not only sought to acquire knowledge, but also to foster strategic alliances between companies from both countries. It is a joint effort to promote human rights, circular economy, and social inclusion, all with the purpose of inspiring the adoption of similar approaches in Costa Rican companies.
During the trip, that took place May 11-19, 2024 and was the first of its kind, the delegation met with more than 20 leading global companies, key institutions, municipalities, universities and visited sustainable cities. This diverse and enriching agenda took place over more than 6 cities, including high-level meetings with more than 25 representatives.
Sustainable business practices that were explored during this tour cover a wide range of areas, from innovative design to renewable energy and waste management.
Notable examples include visits to Wageningen University, Floating Farm and NZO (Dutch Dairy Organisation) in the field of research, bioplastics, livestock and agriculture, as well as exchanges with Blue City, RotterZwam, Green Cycl at van Straten Medical, Heineken Green Circle, de Steck, Maium, Lubo Recycling and Dutch Power Group in waste management, upcycling, food gardens, and circular economy.
In addition, the delegation had the opportunity to immerse itself in the field of innovative regenerative design and construction with visits to renowned architecture offices MVRDV and OMA, as well as to some of their built projects such as Depot Booijmans van Beuningen, Markthallen and Rotterdam’s town hall Timmerhuis. Other flagship entities that were part of this exchange include FMO, Rabobank, Marina Terrain Amsterdam, Municipality Utrecht, Rotterdam Partners, and IKEA, among others.
The start-up meeting with a focus on expectations and wrap-up meeting with lessons learned and how to apply, was beautifully reflected in drawings by Sketchy Business.
Participating Costa Rican companies bring a wide range of sustainable initiatives, from the production of medical devices to nature based solutions in cities, recycling and construction from plastic waste. This diversity of approaches reflects Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in all sectors of the economy.
In short, the learning and exchange mission to the Netherlands represents a crucial step towards a more sustainable future for Central America. By fostering collaboration between companies, promoting responsible business practices and exploring new forms of innovation, this initiative has the potential to transform not only participating companies, but also communities and the environment at large.
With a shared vision of a more sustainable world, this partnership between Costa Rica and the Netherlands is poised to inspire and catalyze positive change throughout the region.
Under the hospitable roof of the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye, located in the heart of The Hague, an animated celebration of cultural heritage unfolded. Marking the remarkable milestone of the 100th anniversary of the friendship treaty between the Republic of Türkiye and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dr. Lerzan Kayıhan Ünal, spouse of His Excellency the Ambassador Selcuk Unal, graciously hosted an enlightening introduction to Ebru art at the Turkish Residence.
The gathering was attended by members and friends of ASA, the Diplomatic Spouse Association of The Hague, including the spouses of the ambassadors of Egypt, Morocco, Germany, France, Brazil, Moldova, Kosovo, South Korea, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, among many others.
Members and friends of ASA attending the Ebru’s event at the Turkish residence.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Lerzan Kayıhan Ünal, the hostess, warmly welcomed the guests to the Turkish Residence, a historical Dutch cultural heritage building with a rich collection of stories dating back 290 years. She eloquently portrayed the shared history that this architectural gem has witnessed, serving as a silent witness to the evolving Turkish-Dutch relations and the broader history of The Hague.
As the day unfolded, the spotlight turned to the ancient Turkish art of Ebru, also known as marbling paper art. Dr. Ünal emphasized the significance of Ebru, a painting technique steeped in 1,300 years of Turkish culture. With water, paint, and brushes, Ebru artists create intricate patterns and symbols on the surface of water, a mesmerizing dance of colors and shapes that culminate in unique works of art. In 2014, Ebru was rightfully inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Leading the Ebru Art Workshop was the talented Mr. Okan Akın, a visual artist born and raised in Türkiye, whose passion for traditional and contemporary art shines through his work. With skillful hands and a wealth of experience, Mr. Akın guided the guests through the intricate process of Ebru, demonstrating the delicate balance between technique and creativity.
The event was made possible through the support of the Yunus Emre Institute in Amsterdam, an institution dedicated to promoting Türkiye’s language, literature, history, culture, and art on a global scale. By preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Türkiye, the Yunus Emre Institute serves as a bridge between nations, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
Guests were treated to Turkish cuisine, courtesy of the timeless recipes featured in the book “Turkish Cuisine With Timeless Recipes,” published under the auspices of Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, spouse of H.E. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. It was a fitting finale to a day filled with art, culture, and friendships.
Leiden, May 13, 2024, the Embassy of Brazil in the Netherlands hosted the launch of the book “O som do roar da onça” or “The Sound of The Jaguar’s Roar,” which in Dutch is “De brul van de jaguar.” The book was written by the Jabuti Award-winning(2021) Brazilian author Micheliny Verunschk, who hails from Pernambuco, Brazil.
The launch took place in Room 1.01 of the PJ Veth Building at Leiden University. It is believed that Albert Einstein himself lectured in this very room while in Leiden. The attendees included the Consul-General of Brazil in Amsterdam Mr Alexandre Vidal Porto, Mr Felipe Ferreira MarquesCultural Attaché, students, special invitees, and members of Brazilian Studies Leiden.
Prof. Dr. Sara Brandellero interviewed Micheliny Verunschk, the author of “De brul van de Jaguar”, with Anne Lopes Michielsen serving as interpreter. During the interview, Micheliny elaborated on the significance of the jaguar, describing it as a figure of power, not subordinated, and venerated in the Americas. Micheliny’s approach as a researcher was unconventional; she did not use tape recordings and cameras. Instead, she engaged in conversations with indigenous people to familiarize herself with their way of life. She also drank Ayahuasca tea and underwent an initiation ceremony to ensure she captured the story accurately.
Brazil, book launch. Section of the audience
The novel De brul van de jaguar tells the story of one of the most shocking crimes committed in the name of science and colonialism. Two German scientists, the naturalist botanist Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius and the zoologist Johann Baptist von Spix. They took several objects from Brazil to Germany (Munich) as part of their scientific expedition, including thousands of plants, reptiles, insects, and other materials, as well as two children, the miranha girl Iñe-e and the boy Juri who were allegedly given as a gift. Once in Munich, Iñe-e and Juri became study objects at the university and proudly presented to the court of King Maximilian Joseph I.
“Speaking at the launch of the book “O som do roar da onça” or “The Sound of The Jaguar’s Roar,” which in Dutch is “De brul van de jaguar,” written by the award-winning Brazilian author Micheliny Verunschk, who is from Pernambuco, Brazil, MrFelipe Ferreira Marques delivered the following address. It is both an honor and a pleasure to welcome you all to the University of Leiden for this special literary afternoon with Micheliny Verunschk, a distinguished Brazilian author celebrated not only in Brazil but now, thanks to the new Dutch edition of her book “O Som do Rugido da Onça”, also here in the Netherlands.
Dr Sara Brandellerdo, Micheliny Vernuschk and Anne Lopes Michielsen.
Micheliny Verunschk’s work serves as a profound exploration of the indigenous cosmologies of Brazil. Her narrative masterfully integrates elements of Miranha cosmology, among others, in a rich and complex system of beliefs that deeply connect the spiritual with the natural world. By including these indigenous perspectives into the fabric of her storytelling, Micheliny not only highlights these rich traditions but also invites us to reconsider the ways in which we understand history and the natural world.
Her literary inputs go beyond storytelling; they challenge us to reevaluate the narratives of Brazil’s colonial past. Through her powerful characters and their journeys, Micheliny offers a poignant critique of the historical injustices inflicted upon indigenous peoples. She reshapes our understanding of history, urging readers to acknowledge and reflect on the impacts of colonization that resonate to this day. Her work is a testament to the power of literature to question, to transform and to heal.
This event is not only a celebration of Micheliny’s work but also a recognition of the collaborative efforts that made this afternoon possible. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Marmer Publishers for their commitment to bringing this wonderful book to Dutch readers. Their dedication to sharing diverse voices is what brings us together today.
Furthermore, I express my deep gratitude to Ms. Anne Lopes. Translating literature is no small feat. Your skillful translation has opened the doors for Dutch-speaking audiences to experience Micheliny’s captivating storytelling.
And of course, our profound thanks go to Dr. Sara Brandellero, who will be guiding our literary discussion today. Dr. Brandellero’s expertise in Latin American literature is invaluable, and her insights will certainly enrich our conversation and understanding of Micheliny’s work.
As we proceed with today’s program, I invite you all to engage openly in the discussions, share your perspectives, and perhaps see the world a little differently through the lens of Brazilian literature. May today’s discussion inspire and provoke, leaving us with new ideas and a greater appreciation for the stories that shape our world. Thank you, I wish you all an enriching literary afternoon.” A reception and book signing session concluded the Brazilian-style book launching afternoon.
On Monday, May 6, 2024, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Mr. Mayerfas, hosted a “Papua Cultural Night” featuring traditional dances and music from Papua. The performance was presented by Hgateri Akustik, a Papuan cultural group consisting of young Papuans from the Wonti ethnic group in Waropen, Papua.
The group, currently on tour in Europe, paid a courtesy call to Ambassador Mayerfas and performed at the auditorium of the Indonesian Embassy in The Hague. The event was well-attended, and the artists, dressed in colorful attire, presented a dazzling show of dances, music, and songs in both the Indonesian language and the Papuan vernacular. Mr. Manuel, a seasoned singer, captivated the audience with his celestial voice. The audience also had the opportunity to participate by joining in the dancing.
Hgateri Akustik, Papua Cultural Group.
Overall, it was a wonderful evening of entertainment and cultural celebration.
Hgateri Akustik from Indonesia to the Netherlands: a Showcase of Papuan Culture. Eighteen talented young Papuans fused in “Hgateri” toured the Netherlands from 25 April to 8 May 2024 for a roadshow of Papuan culture. The group leader, Mr Andy Nussy, explains, “our mission is to introduce and promote the tradition of the Wonti tribe to the World”. In their performances, Hgateri shows the traditional values and wisdom of the Wonti etnic group, which include living in harmony with nature, protection of Cendrawasih (Bird of Paradise), the spirit of togetherness and gratefulness. The Wonti tribe, native to Waropen Regency, is one of more than 255 ethic groups in Papua, Indonesia.
Papua Hgateri Akustik / Indonesia Embassy The Hague.
During their stay in the Netherlands, Hgateri has staged in Steyl, Maastricht, Olst and The Hague. The group amazed the public during the “Papuan Heritage Cultural Day” (“Papoea-Erfgoed Culturele Dag”) at Missiemuseum, Steyl, on 27 April 2024. The workshop, followed by a stunning performance of traditional music and the Cendrawasih dance, were part of the ongoing “Birds of God” (“Vogels van God”) exhibition, a special showcase about Cendrawasih at Missiemuseum that will remain until 1 September 2024.
On 28 April 2024, the gifted young Papuans collaborated with the Indonesian Students Association in Maastricht to tone up “Nusantara Night”, a presentation of Indonesian cultural richness which included display of Indonesian traditional woven fabrics, exhibition of Pencak Silat – traditional martial art, a mini concert of Sasando – traditional musical instrument made of palm leaves from Rote Island, and more Papuan traditional music and Tari Perang (War Dance).
Hgateri Akustik, Papua.
After a week enjoying the warm Dutch hospitality, on 4 April 2024, the group engaged with the locals of Olst and surroundings at the “Bird of Paradise: Papuan Cultural Night”
(“Bird of Paradise: Papoea Culturele Avond”) at the Municipal Theater of Olst that went on from after dinner time until well past midnight.
Hgateri took part in “OUR COUNTRY: The Freedom Show” (“ONS LAND: De Vrijheidshow”) organized by the Indisch Herinneringscentrum (IHC) at the Sofiahof Museum in The Hague on 5 may 2024. The public was so thrilled with Tifa dance and Yospan dance that the group was requested to come back to the stage for one extra Sajojo dance after the show had –supposedly– come to an end. The rising Papuan youngsters made their final act in the Netherlands before a group of Friends of Indonesia on 6 May 2024 at the Indonesian Embassy in The Hague. There, Hgateri was able to quench the crowd’s yearning of Indonesia and revive their beautiful memories of Archipelago.
Hgateri is part of the Papua Youth Creative Hub (PYCH), a collaborative space for Papuan youth. PYCH focuses on 6 main programs: entrepreneurs, education and health, social and culture, Creative Industry, Farming and Fisheries, and Digital Innovation. PYCH strives to give economic value to the natural resources of Papua and encourage entrepreneurial movement in Papua through the youth.
The evening concluded with a banquet. The Papua Cultural Night, all left the Indonesian Embassy auditorium The Hague in high spirits.
Del 24 al 31 de mayo, la sede de la CPI será el escenario de la XI Semana Iberoamericana de Justicia Internacional en La Haya, un evento coorganizado por el Instituto Iberoamericano de La Haya y la Corte Penal Internacional. Este encuentro académico anual se ha consolidado como una referencia en español en el ámbito del derecho internacional.
La versión final del programa, que incluye horarios y contenidos de cada actividad, está disponible para su descarga en el siguiente enlace:
In a detailed and emphatic statement, the Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC) has outlined severe allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity against key figures from both Hamas and the Israeli government. The charges stem from events beginning on October 7, 2023, amid escalating violence between Israel and Palestine.
The ICC Prosecutor has identified Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas as bearing criminal responsibility for a series of grave offenses. These charges include extermination, murder, hostage-taking, rape, torture, and other inhumane acts. These crimes are purported to have been committed during attacks on Israeli civilians and the taking of hostages.
Extermination and Murder: These leaders are accused of orchestrating attacks resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Israeli civilians.
Hostage-Taking: At least 245 hostages were allegedly taken during these attacks.
Sexual Violence and Torture: There are allegations of rape and torture among the captives, supported by medical records and victim testimonies.
The Prosecutor emphasized the extensive evidence supporting these charges, including CCTV footage, authenticated multimedia, and eyewitness accounts.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of Israel are similarly accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity against the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza. These charges arise from actions taken from October 8, 2023, onwards, amidst the ongoing conflict.
Starvation and Siege: Israel is accused of using starvation as a method of warfare by blocking essential supplies and cutting off water and electricity to Gaza.
Attacks on Civilians: Intentional attacks against civilians, including those queuing for food and humanitarian aid workers, are detailed.
Systematic Deprivation: The allegations include a systematic plan to deprive the Gazan population of necessities, resulting in severe suffering and numerous deaths.
The Prosecutor noted the substantial evidence, such as satellite imagery, interviews, and verified documentation, underpinning these accusations.
Legal and Humanitarian Implications
The ICC’s actions are based on its mandate under the Rome Statute, with jurisdiction affirmed over Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. The Prosecutor underscored the principle of applying international humanitarian law equally, without bias.
The Prosecutor reiterated calls for the immediate release of all hostages and the urgent need for humanitarian aid access to Gaza. The statement concludes with a firm stance on the necessity of accountability, urging all states to uphold their obligations under international law and support the ICC’s efforts.
Both sides face serious accusations, highlighting the profound impact of the conflict on civilian populations and the critical need for international legal standards to be upheld.
Tragedy struck Iran on Sunday morning as President Ebrahim Raisi, along with several high-ranking officials, perished in a helicopter crash in the mountains of East Azerbaijan province. Among the casualties was Minister of Foreign Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, marking a devastating loss for the nation’s leadership.
The confirmation of President Raisi’s death came from various sources, including Ali Reza Dawari, Head of the Communication Department in Ahmadinejad’s presidency, and Pir Hossein Kolivand, the head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society. Reports indicated that there were no survivors among the passengers on board the crashed helicopter. The president was reportedly en route to Tabriz, a city in northwestern Iran, following his visit to the border with Azerbaijan, where he inaugurated the Qiz Qalasi and Khodaafarin dams.
The helicopter was part of a convoy of three aircraft, highlighting the gravity of the incident and the scale of the loss. Rescue efforts were hindered by adverse weather conditions and rugged terrain, necessitating the use of drones to approach the crash site. Upon arrival, rescuers discovered the charred wreckage of the aircraft, further confirming the severity of the crash. Sadly, no signs of life were detected, reinforcing the grim likelihood of no survivors, as reported by Reuters and Iranian state media.
President Raisi, aged 63, had assumed office in 2021, making his tenure tragically short-lived. In the wake of his untimely death, Vice President Mohammad Mokhber is expected to assume the responsibilities of the presidency, contingent upon certain conditions.
According to Iran’s constitutional provisions, the emergency succession process requires the approval of the supreme guide, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who serves as the country’s highest authority and head of state. Additionally, the vice president assuming the presidency is a temporary measure, as they are mandated to call for elections within a short timeframe.
The loss of President Raisi and his accompanying officials leaves a void in Iran’s leadership, prompting mourning and reflection across the nation. As investigations into the causes of the helicopter crash continue, the Iranian people grapple with the sudden departure of their president and the uncertain road ahead for their country’s governance.
Art Installation by conceptual artist Alketa Xhafa Mripa in support of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence
Location: The Hague City Hall, 03-28 June 2024 & Lange Voorhout, 18-23 June 2024
In June 2024, The Hague City Hall and the Lange Voorhout will be festooned with washing lines full of dresses donated by survivors of sexual violence in conflict and their supporters.
This landmark public art installation by the internationally recognized conceptual artist Alketa Xhafa Mripa will be a powerful homage to survivors of sexual violence in conflict worldwide. The artist created the installation in collaboration with the Mukwege Foundation, the Embassy of Kosovo in the Netherlands, and the Municipality of The Hague.
Together, through this installation, we are calling to draw a Red Line to end conflict-related sexual violence.
The Embassy of Kosovo in The Hague collaborates with Alketa Xhafa-Mripa to bring the art installation “Thinking of You” to the city, emphasizing Kosovo’s quest for justice and raising awareness of wartime atrocities.
Survivors SEMA Ukraine-Thinking of You
Introducing Thinking of You
The artist initially conceived the concept in response to the ongoing traumatization and social exclusion of survivors of sexual violence from the 1999 war in her native Kosovo. The first Thinking of You exhibition (Prishtina, 2015) was held in the football stadium in the capital of Kosovo, receiving international acclaim and attention.
Alketa has aimed to take this installation to other countries and to collaborate in solidarity with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence around the world. Since its initial launch in Kosovo and subsequent installations, Thinking of You has become a global symbol of remembrance and solidarity with survivors of sexual violence.
Alketa Xhafa-Mripa’s art delves into personal and universal themes encompassing motherhood, women, gender relations, memory, and the body. Through mediums like films, installations, paintings, and photography, she explores personal and collective experiences. Alketa, a Kosovar-born artist residing in London, brings a unique perspective shaped by her experiences as a refugee during the Kosovo War. Her work is deeply rooted in feminist values, advocating for vulnerable communities, particularly survivors of sexual violence and wartime rape. Collaboration and activism are integral to her practice, reflecting her commitment to challenging oppression and fostering new discourse.
“I use art’s transformative and restorative power as a vehicle for raising awareness, empowering, and giving a platform to survivors of sexual violence in conflict to come forward and speak up. We must reach everyone in society and use all means at our disposal to end this intolerable suffering once and for all. The first Thinking of You, in my home nation of Kosovo, became a collective act of listening and healing for the estimated 20,000 survivors of sexual violence committed during the war there. Bringing Thinking of You to The Hague is a powerful homage to the survivors from all over the world and a call to decision-makers to take action.” – Alketa Xhafa Mripa
Thinking of You art installation (The Hague, 2024)
From June 3rd to June 28th 2024, Thinking of You will be installed in the Atrium of the City Hall, and from June 18th to 23rd, the installation will be extended along the avenue of trees on the Lange Voorhout in The Hague—this time gathering dresses and shirts from survivors of conflict-related sexual violence across the world.
The dresses are collected from over 20 countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Colombia. This powerful collection is possible with the support of SEMA, the Global Network of Victims and Survivors to End Wartime Sexual Violence, and many national survivors’ networks. The installation is a testimony of the reality of sexual violence in conflict and its human consequences, challenging a wide audience to think more deeply about the lived realities of survivors around the world and mobilize key decision-makers to draw a Red Line against the use of sexual violence and take stronger action in preventing and responding to conflict-related sexual violence.
South-Sudan-Survivors-Thinking-of-You
With The Hague celebrated as the International City of Peace and Justice, there is no better place to present this exhibition. The installation will also commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict on June 19th 2024, hosting a special celebration in the evening and officially bringing the exhibition outdoors along the avenue of trees on the Lange Voorhout in The Hague.
“Art can be a powerful tool to touch people deeply and raise awareness about the consequences of conflict-related sexual violence. On this occasion, we are excited to collaborate with artist Alketa Xhafa Mripa in carrying out this meaningful art exhibition together with SEMA, the Global Network of Victims and Survivors to End Wartime Sexual Violence. It’s our wish that more people join us in drawing a Red Line against the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war.” – Katrien Coppens, Executive Director at the Mukwege Foundation.
“Conflict-related sexual violence is a crime that strikes at the very heart of humanity and leaves the victims and survivors with an everlasting and excruciating pain. It is therefore our collective responsibility to act decisively and address the staggering reality of CRSV. This is why we are happy to collaborate with Artist Alketa Xhafa-Mripa, by bringing the power of Thinking of You art installation to the city of peace and justice.” – H.E. Mr. Dren Doli, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
“This year marks 125 years since the First Hague Peace Conference, a historic gathering that laid the groundwork for international cooperation and conflict resolution by establishing the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The Municipality of The Hague is very honoured to host the Alketa Xhafa-Mripa art installation Thinking of You this year, from 3rd to 23rd June. Establishing a permanent global Red Line against sexual violence in conflict is imperative for peace and justice worldwide.”- Mariëlle Vavier, Deputy Mayor International Affairs, Municipality of The Hague
