Israeli candidate Yael Weiner has been elected Chair of the Council on General Affairs and Policy (CGAP) of the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) on Thursday, March 5. This marks the first time that an Israeli representative will lead this important governing body of the organization.
Weiner was elected by a large majority of the HCCH’s Member States, following a multi-month diplomatic process led by the Israeli Embassy in The Hague in cooperation with the Israeli Ministry of Justice.
During the meeting, a small group of countries—including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Malaysia, and Spain—proposed postponing the vote. A large majority of Member States rejected this proposal, after which the election proceeded by secret ballot, resulting in clear support for Weiner.
Weiner currently serves as Vice-Chair of the CGAP and has been closely involved in the organization’s work for many years. She was the sole candidate for the position and is widely regarded within the organization as a highly experienced expert in international legal cooperation.
Founded in 1893, the Hague Conference on Private International Law today counts around 90 Member States. The organization develops international legal frameworks that facilitate cooperation between countries on cross-border legal matters, including international family law cases and other forms of judicial and administrative assistance.
The Council on General Affairs and Policy serves as the principal governing body of the HCCH, overseeing the organization’s activities and determining its strategic direction and work programme.
Weiner’s election reflects the confidence of Member States in her leadership, solid knowledge, and extensive experience, as well as her long-standing commitment to the work of the HCCH.
A global drug trafficking network has been dismantled following coordinated actions by authorities worldwide, supported by Eurojust and Europol. The operation resulted in the arrest of 15 suspects and began after Swedish investigators seized two mobile phones in a small town.
Forensic analysis of the devices revealed international contacts and communications used to coordinate criminal activities far beyond Sweden. The data exposed a sophisticated network involved in large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering, linking several criminal groups operating through a web of companies across multiple countries.
Investigators determined that members of the network in Thailand ran an online drug distribution operation targeting customers in the Nordic region. In Sweden, associates managed domestic distribution and laundered criminal profits, while in Spain a high-value target facilitated large-scale drug trafficking.
Following the discovery, Eurojust brought together judicial authorities from several countries to exchange information and coordinate strategic action. Early results included the seizure by German authorities of 1.2 tonnes of synthetic drugs destined for the Australian market. Two distributors waiting for the shipment were subsequently identified and arrested in Australia.
Once the key actors within the network were identified, authorities prepared a coordinated international operation. On 4 March, approximately 20 searches were carried out in Spain, Sweden and Thailand, leading to the arrest of 13 suspects. Investigators seized phones, documents and other evidence, which are now being further analysed.
Judicial cooperation through Eurojust began in early 2025 after the Swedish Prosecution Authority identified the need for international coordination. Meetings held at Eurojust in The Hague brought together authorities from Sweden, Germany, Spain and Australia to exchange intelligence and plan strategic actions. Eurojust also facilitated the preparation and execution of European Investigation Orders, European Arrest Warrants and freezing orders across multiple jurisdictions.
Europol provided extensive operational support throughout the investigation, including advanced analytical assistance, cryptocurrency analysis, intelligence reporting and funding for cross-border investigative activities.
Commenting on the operation, Senior Public Prosecutor Tove Kullberg of Sweden stated: “The support from Eurojust during the action day made things run smoothly. I found the support from Eurojust invaluable.”
Authorities involved:
Sweden: Swedish Prosecution Authority – National Unit Against Organised Crime; Swedish Economic Crime Authority; Swedish Police.
Spain: Central Investigative Court No. 4; Anti-Drug Prosecutor’s Office; Guardia Civil – UCO Málaga and Balearic Islands; Judicial Police Unit of Catalonia.
By H.E. Mr. Seok In Hong, Ambassador of South Korea
In the early 1970’s, The Orange Legion – the Dutch National Team – caused a shift in the global football paradigm through their infamous “Total Football”. With the players moving fluidly across the field, the result of the game was determined by the performance of the systematic strategy rather than an individual player’s prowess. The modern semiconductor industry, the “oil of the twenty-first century”, is no different. It reaches its highest level of competitiveness when materials, equipment, design, and manufacturing come together a synergistic ecosystem. Due to complex processes and intertwined nature of supply chains, it is virtually impossible for any single country to create a complete ecosystem. In today’s turbulent geopolitical environment, Total Cooperation with the Netherlands, our trustworthy ally, is the best path to success.
In stark contrast to the idyllic scenery of windmills and tulip fields, the Netherlands is also home to ASML, the world’s sole manufacturer of EUV lithography equipment. As such, the Netherlands is an indispensable partner for Korea, as we aim to evolve from a memory chip giant into an AI powerhouse. In December 2023, our countries declared a semiconductor alliance, laying the institutional foundation for a total cooperation system. Building upon the well-established interconnected system between ASML, Samsung Electronics, and SK Hynix, our governments declared their partnership on the semiconductor supply chain resilience and technological collaboration.
Korea and the Netherlands shared policy approaches on semiconductors, economic security, and strategic material through consistent dialogue while actively searching for avenues of cooperation on R&D, talent development, and supply chain stability. Since February 2024, Korean universities and research institutes have taken part in the “Korea-NL Advanced Semiconductor Academy” alongside global companies. Every year, over 100 students and engineers visit the Netherlands to experience the frontier of semiconductor innovation. Furthermore, the Foreign Ministers and Trade Ministers held the inaugural “2+2 Foreign and Industry High-Level Dialogue” in February, reaffirming their commitment to maintain and strengthen strategic cooperation between our respective semiconductor ecosystems as expressed in the joint statement.
To guard against the fierce geopolitical winds sweeping across the globe, our countries are also strengthening cooperation in diplomacy and security. Our leaders have maintained close communication on the highest level, including a phone call on the inauguration of the new Korean government in August 2025 and the Dutch Prime Minister’s participation in the UN Security Council Open Discussion on AI chaired by the Korean President in September of the same year. Notably, the Netherlands plans to dispatch a naval vessel to the Indo-Pacific this April, contributing to the region’s peace and stability.
Today, the world is engaged in an unprecedented, holistic competition – not only in semiconductors but across multiple sectors, such as new technologies, cyber, and supply chains. This further necessitates close cooperation with a trusted partner, coordinating a well-equipped posture to analyze the field from every angle while being prepared. The organic cooperation of 20th century ‘Total Football’ was once enough to take on the world from within a single nation. Now heading into the mid-21st century, we need collaboration that transcends national borders. Korea and the Netherlands are strategic partners that complement each other’s semiconductor supply chains seamlessly, and together we look forward to establishing the ‘Total System’ that stretches from Busan to Rotterdam.
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following a series of attacks attributed to Iran, the government of the United Arab Emirates held an extensive press briefing on 4 March to update local and international media on the country’s military, security, and emergency response measures.
The briefing brought together senior officials representing the country’s defence, security, diplomatic, and crisis-management institutions. Among the speakers were Brigadier General Pilot Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence; Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Brigadier Abdulaziz Al Ahmad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior; and Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, spokesperson for the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority.
The officials presented a coordinated overview of the national response to the attacks, emphasizing defence readiness, internal security measures, and the activation of emergency response systems designed to ensure the protection of citizens, residents, and national infrastructure.
Defence Forces Intercept Hundreds of Missiles and Drones
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi described the scale of the attacks and the response by the UAE’s armed forces. According to the military briefing, air defence systems have intercepted 186 ballistic missiles launched toward the country since the beginning of the Iranian aggression this year, destroying 172 of them while others fell into the sea or were neutralized.
In addition, the armed forces detected 812 Iranian drones, intercepting the vast majority before they could reach their targets. Eight cruise missiles were also destroyed.
Al Humaidi stressed that the country’s multi-layered air defence system, supported by advanced fighter aircraft including F-16 and Mirage 2000 jets, has demonstrated high operational efficiency.
“The UAE will not, under any circumstances, accept any infringement upon its sovereignty, security, or the safety of its territory,” he said, adding that the armed forces remain fully prepared to take all necessary measures to defend the country.
Despite the intensity of the attacks, casualties have been limited. Officials reported three fatalities and 68 minor injuries, largely resulting from debris generated during interception operations rather than direct impacts.
Addressing internal security, Brigadier Abdulaziz Al Ahmad confirmed that the overall security situation across the UAE remains stable, with authorities maintaining the highest level of readiness.
The Ministry of Interior has deployed an expanded security presence across the country, including more than 4,100 traffic and security patrols and over 3,200 specialized security vehicles. These forces operate within a national security system that coordinates with more than 25 government entities.
Advanced federal operations rooms, supported by modern surveillance technologies and real-time data analysis, are being used to monitor developments and ensure rapid response to any incidents.
Al Ahmad emphasized that the system enables response times that rank among the best internationally, while ensuring the continued delivery of public safety services during the crisis.
He also called on the public to rely exclusively on official sources of information and to follow safety guidelines issued by authorities.
National Emergency System Activated to Ensure Continuity of Essential Services
Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, representing the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, outlined the country’s coordinated national response framework.
Since the escalation began, the UAE has activated its integrated national crisis-management system, ensuring close coordination among government agencies to safeguard lives and maintain essential services.
According to the authority, energy supply, telecommunications, healthcare, transport, and food distribution systems continue to operate normally, supported by contingency plans designed to maintain uninterrupted service even under emergency conditions.
Business continuity strategies have also been activated across key sectors, while the education system has shifted to remote learning where necessary to ensure that students can continue their academic programs without disruption.
“The national system has responded with high professionalism and proactive coordination,” Al Dhaheri stated, highlighting the role of joint planning and national preparedness exercises in strengthening the country’s resilience.
A Coordinated National Response
Throughout the briefing, officials stressed that the UAE’s response combines military defence, internal security, and emergency management coordination within a unified national framework.
While reaffirming the country’s right to defend its sovereignty, authorities emphasized that maintaining stability, safeguarding residents, and ensuring the continuity of daily life remain the central priorities.
The briefing also highlighted the role of transparent communication with international and local media in maintaining public confidence during a period of regional instability.
As tensions continue in the region, UAE officials reiterated that the country’s institutions remain fully mobilized to respond to any further developments while preserving security and stability across the federation.
In recent years, major economies around the world have faced mounting development challenges. Although U.S. economic growth in the third quarter of 2025 exceeded expectations, persistently high unemployment and structural inflation remain significant headwinds. The country’s increasingly pronounced K-shaped divergence in income and consumption patterns further underscores underlying imbalances. Europe, meanwhile, remains trapped in prolonged stagnation. Core economies such as France and Germany are constrained by weak innovation and shrinking manufacturing sectors, resulting in limited growth momentum. China is likewise grappling with slowing growth, mounting pressures from industrial upgrading, and rising deflationary risks.
Many economists attribute these difficulties to cyclical fluctuations or the disruptive effects of U.S. tariffs. Yet a growing body of analysis suggests a deeper structural shift: the steady advance of de-globalization. In fact, the U.S. tariff hikes, tightened chip export controls, European trade protectionism, and tax adjustments in countries like Mexico should rather be better understood as symptoms rather than root causes. The globally integrated economic order that took shape over the past several decades is fragmenting at an unprecedented pace. This systemic transformation is increasingly seen as a central factor behind the slowdown in global growth.
For decades, the world functioned as a highly integrated mega-market characterized by deep interdependence and efficient global division of labor. Advanced economies in Europe and the U.S. leveraged strengths in capital, technology, and management to allocate resources globally and capture substantial returns. Emerging economies across Asia and Latin America, seizing opportunities created by industrial relocation, integrated into global value chains through cost advantages in labor and production. The result was a significant expansion of the global economic pie and a foundation for sustained growth across many regions.
De-globalization, by contrast, is a structural reversal. It is about the retreat in trade, cross-border investment, technology flows, and supply-chain integration, as nations turn toward protectionism and regional insulation. Its manifestations include rising trade barriers, supply-chain reconfiguration, technological containment, exclusionary rule-making, and even direct geopolitical intervention in economic affairs.
As de-globalization deepens, the once unified global mega-market is gradually fragmenting into smaller, regionalized blocs. Economically, this fragmentation amounts to a contraction in the effective size of global markets. Reduced scale undermines efficiency in resource allocation, raises transaction costs, weakens economies of scale, and ultimately diminishes overall welfare. In this sense, de-globalization resembles a balance-sheet contraction of the global production system, eroding the very foundations that once supported expansive growth.
The consequences of this are far-reaching. Declining external demand, “friend-shoring” of supply chains, tighter regional clustering of production, and even outright localization are reshaping global industrial patterns. These shifts are often accompanied by capital withdrawals, more concentrated production footprints among multinational firms, and shrinking multilateral financing flows, which strain public finances. Economies on the margins of the global trading system may find it increasingly difficult to remain embedded in global value chains. Yet while this transformation is systemic, its impact and policy implications vary significantly across regions.
For China, the challenges are immediate and direct. Fragmented and restricted external markets place pressure on the long-standing export-oriented growth model. Although China’s resilient and comprehensive industrial chains may sustain or even expand export volumes, intensifying competition and protectionist constraints often force firms into price-based competition, eroding terms of trade and squeezing profit margins. These dynamics heighten the urgency of shifting toward consumption-driven growth and moving up the value chain.
Europe faces a different but equally profound test. Its economic model has long depended on globally sourced energy, raw materials, and primary goods, combined with exports of high-value industrial products, technology, and financial services. As globalization recedes, this model is under strain. Rising input costs threaten industrial competitiveness, while the relatively limited size of domestic markets and economic divergence among member states become more pronounced. Growth momentum could weaken substantially.
At the same time, Europe also confronts structural fiscal trade-offs. With public expenditure exceeding 40% of total fiscal spending, and healthcare alone accounting for a large share, balancing generous social welfare systems with increased defense commitments is becoming more difficult. Without the external tailwinds of globalization, sustaining both priorities may prove challenging. Moreover, Europe’s innovation performance lags behind that of the U.S. in several strategic sectors, limiting its capacity to lead new waves of industrial transformation. As de-globalization advances, the institutional cohesion and future trajectory of the European Union itself may face mounting pressure.
By contrast, the U.S. may exhibit comparatively strong structural resilience. Its vast domestic market, leadership in technological innovation, and longstanding economic influence across the Americas provide buffers against global fragmentation. An innovation-driven economic model reduces reliance on traditional supply chains and may, in certain sectors, even benefit in the short term from technological decoupling and market segmentation. This positions the U.S. to adapt to, and indeed potentially shape, the evolving international economic order.
Nevertheless, vulnerabilities persist. U.S. stock indices have repeatedly reached record highs, but gains are heavily concentrated in a small number of technology giants. Such concentration signals structural imbalance and suggests that growth is not broadly based. At the strategic level, the U.S. is refocusing on consolidating its economic position within the Americas, leveraging the region’s population scale, resource base, and consumption potential as a stabilizing anchor amid global shifts.
As things stand, while global growth has not come to a halt, the logic underpinning it has changed profoundly. The world economy is no longer driven primarily by the expansion of a single integrated marketplace. Instead, it is increasingly shaped by fragmentation, regionalization, and strategic competition. Recognizing this structural shift is essential to understanding the new realities of global economic development.
About the authors:
Kung Chan is think thank ANBOUND’s founder , and Li Xiaofeng, is an Economist of China Macro-Economy Research Center at ANBOUND.
Some life stories follow a straight line. Others move across borders, disciplines and historical turning points. When I sat down with Shqipe Hajredini Doli, it became clear that her journey belongs firmly to the second category.
‘I grew up in a city that teaches you resilience without putting it in a textbook,’ she tells me with a smile. Pristina, she says, shaped both her professional determination and her instinct to look at institutions not as abstract constructions, but as living frameworks that affect daily life.
Her academic path began in law. ‘Law fascinated me because it’s not just about rules, it’s about balance,’ she explains. After completing her legal studies, she pursued a Master in European Legal Studies at the University of Hamburg. ‘Germany taught me discipline,’ she laughs. ‘And punctuality. Very punctual punctuality.’ Later, she completed a Doctorate in Political Science, focusing on governance, public policy and the relationship between legal systems and political realities.
Activity for diplomatic community at Atrium Den Haag.
Her career spans more than two decades across national institutions, NGOs and international organizations. She began in legislative drafting and legal reform. ‘At the beginning, I was literally working on texts that would shape institutions. It’s a strange feeling, you type a sentence and you know it might outlive your entire career.’ Over time, her work expanded into broader institutional reform and, more recently, into human rights. ‘Without human rights, governance is just administration,’ she says simply.
Languages have been a constant thread. Growing up in the former Yugoslavia meant early exposure to linguistic diversity. ‘I’ve always loved languages. They are not just tools to speak, they are tools to understand. When you switch languages, you almost switch personality slightly.’ She pauses. ‘It’s the closest thing to peaceful shape-shifting.’
Ambassadors Spouse’s Association ASA 2025.
Beyond her professional life, she is first and foremost a mother of two sons. ‘They keep me grounded. They also keep me technologically updated,’ she adds dryly. Artistic expression, especially painting and photography, offers balance. Ancient history remains a passion. ‘History is humbling. You realize that most political crises are not as original as we think.’
When I ask about food, her answer is immediate: ‘Cuisine is diplomacy without microphones.’ Coming from Kosovo, Mediterranean flavors remain emotionally close. ‘Food carries memory. One dish can bring back an entire decade.’ She firmly believes gastronomy is a powerful tool of cultural diplomacy. ‘When people share a table, they lower their defenses. It’s very difficult to argue aggressively while asking someone to pass the olive oil.’
Activities I organized in The Hague for ASA.
Her international mobility began early. As a teenager, she moved independently to Austria and later to the United States. ‘Moving abroad alone teaches you two things: independence and how to pack efficiently.’ Germany played a key role during her academic years, but she has also developed a strong appreciation for the Netherlands. ‘I admire the Dutch balance between structure and openness.’ Still, she admits she feels emotionally split between Southern Europe’s warmth and Northern Europe’s order. ‘Ideally, I would like Southern weather with Northern administration.’
Speaking about Kosovo, she becomes both reflective and proud. ‘Kosovo is young, energetic and sometimes impatient, but in a good way.’ She describes it as a country with ‘a big heart and an even bigger ambition.’ For her, resilience is not a slogan but a lived experience. ‘We learned to build while still healing.’
Her view of the diplomatic community is pragmatic. ‘Diplomacy is about relationships. Policies matter, of course. But trust is built over coffee, not only in conference rooms.’ She finds the international diplomatic environment intellectually stimulating and culturally rich. ‘You are constantly learning how other societies think.’
The conversation naturally turns to diplomatic spouses. ‘People often assume we simply attend events,’ she says with a knowing smile. ‘In reality, many diplomatic spouses have their own careers, expertise and ambitions. Sometimes we pause them. Sometimes we reinvent them.’ She sees the role as complementary to official representation. ‘We are informal bridges. We connect with communities, professional networks, cultural initiatives. It’s soft influence, but it’s real.’
Do diplomatic spouses have power? ‘Absolutely,’ she replies without hesitation. ‘Not institutional power, but relational power. The power to create understanding. To reduce prejudice. To open doors that formal titles sometimes cannot.’ She adds, ‘It’s quiet power. But quiet doesn’t mean weak.’
Dr. Shqipe Doli
One of her proudest professional moments came in the period following Kosovo’s Declaration of Independence. ‘Those years were intense. We were building institutions almost in real time.’ She was directly involved in legal and policy development processes critical to state consolidation. ‘It was demanding, complex and sometimes exhausting. But also incredibly meaningful. You could see the impact of your work.’
As our conversation draws to a close, I ask about her life motto. She reflects for a moment. ‘Live intentionally,’ she says. ‘Commit fully to what you do but stay curious.’ Growth, for her, comes from stepping beyond comfort zones. ‘If something challenges you slightly, it’s probably good for you.’ She smiles again. ‘Except maybe extreme sports. I prefer intellectual risk.’
Kosovo National Day 2026. Picture by Studio Dijkgraaf
In a world of shifting alliances and complex negotiations, her perspective is a reminder that diplomacy is not only conducted in official halls. It is also shaped by personal conviction, cultural intelligence and the quiet determination to build bridges, one conversation at a time.
On Wednesday 18 March 2026, residents of The Hague will head to the polls for the municipal elections — a key democratic moment for everyone who calls the city home. For many of the city’s more than 70,000 international residents who may be eligible to vote, this is an opportunity to help shape the future of their new hometown.
As Mayor Jan van Zanen reminds us: “Wednesday, March 18, you help to shape the future of our city. Use your voice. Use your vote. Kom op voor Den Haag.”
Who can vote?
You are eligible to vote in the municipal elections if you:
Are 18 years or older on 18 March 2026;
Were registered in a Dutch municipality on 2 February 2026;
Hold Dutch nationality, the nationality of another EU member state, or have been legally living in the Netherlands for at least five uninterrupted years as of 2 February 2026.
Can I vote if I am not Dutch?
Yes — many internationals can vote in local elections.
EU nationals may vote if registered in a Dutch municipality.
Non-EU nationals may vote if they have held a valid residence permit for at least five uninterrupted years as of 2 February 2026. This includes residence permits issued by the IND or MFA for diplomats working at intergovernmental organisations.
Employees of embassies and consulates (and their family members) who do not hold Dutch nationality are not eligible to vote.
In short: EU and non-EU nationals working for international organisations can vote if they meet the criteria. Non-Dutch nationals working for embassies and consulates cannot.
How does voting work?
If you are eligible, you will receive a voting pass by post at your home address no later than 2 March 2026 (in The Hague). If you do not receive it, you can request a replacement — but be mindful that deadlines apply.
On election day, you must bring:
Your voting pass;
A valid form of identification (passport, Dutch or EU/EEA/Swiss ID card, Dutch or EU/EEA driving licence, residence permit or MFA card).
Your ID may be expired for up to five years.
Polling stations are located throughout the city and neighbouring municipalities including Delft, Rijswijk, Leidschendam-Voorburg and Wassenaar. Practical information and polling station locations can be found on your municipality’s website.
Who can I vote for?
In The Hague, voters can choose from 20 political parties. A total of 487 candidates are competing for 45 seats on the city council.
Some parties provide translated versions of their political programmes. Translation apps and AI tools can also help you better understand party positions. Additionally, Kieskompas offers an online tool that allows voters to compare their views with party statements.
The Hague Local Election Night in English
Internationals who would like to learn more about the elections are invited to attend The Hague Local Election Night on 10 March. The event is organised by ACCESS, Volunteer The Hague and Holland Park Media.
The event starts at 17:00 at The Hague Tech (Waldorpstraat 5, 2521 CA, The Hague) and offers an opportunity to better understand how local politics works — and why your vote matters.
On 18 March, make your voice heard. Your city, your future, your vote.
The Embassy of the Dominican Republic in The Hague marked the country’s Independence Day on February 25 with a joyful celebration that filled the large Residentie Hall of the Leonardo Royal Hotel. Diplomats, Dutch officials, members of the business community, representatives of the Dominican diaspora, and friends of the Dominican Republic gathered to commemorate nearly 182 years of sovereignty.
The evening reflected the warmth and dynamism of Dominican culture. A live musical group and a traditional dance ensemble brought the rhythms of the Caribbean to The Hague, while guests enjoyed rum tastings, premium cigars, and Dominican coffee, experiencing firsthand the flavors that define the nation’s heritage.
Ambassador De la Mota during the national anthems.
In his address, H.E. Carlos de la Mota, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, delivered a speech that blended history, patriotism, and forward-looking optimism.
“It is a privilege to gather this afternoon to commemorate one of the most defining moments in the history of the Dominican Republic: the proclamation of our independence nearly 182 years ago,” Ambassador De la Mota began. “This anniversary is not simply a remembrance of the past, but a reaffirmation of the principles that continue to shape our nation and our people, wherever they may reside.”
He described Independence Day as the embodiment of courage, sacrifice, vision, and conviction — the belief that a free, sovereign, and dignified nation was not only possible, but necessary.
Recalling the historic events of February 27, 1844, the ambassador paid tribute to the Founding Fathers — Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez, and Ramón Matías Mella — who proclaimed independence from Haiti at the Puerta del Conde after twenty-two years of foreign domination.
“Duarte endured years of exile across the Caribbean, including in Curaçao, carrying with him — and strengthening — the ideals that define our Republic. Sánchez gave his life before a firing squad in defense of national sovereignty. Mella devoted his existence to the cause of freedom,” he said.
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Basri, Ambassador of Morocco and Dr Christophe Bernasconi, Secretary General of the HCCH.Guests attending the Dominican Republic Independence Day celebration 2026 in The Hague.
He continued:
“Independence is the essence of our national identity. To defend it today means acting with integrity and justice, strengthening our institutions, and working collectively toward sustainable development. It means honoring their sacrifice through actions that consolidate democracy, peace, and prosperity.”
Celebrating this historic date in the Netherlands carries special meaning, he noted, given the long-standing cultural, economic, and human exchanges between the two countries.
“Thousands of Dominicans have built their lives in this special country, contributing to its diversity while upholding their roots with pride. Their perseverance and sense of community are a living testament to the Dominican spirit.”
Looking ahead, the ambassador outlined important initiatives for the coming year. The Dominican Republic will host CHEMEX-GRULAC, a multi-component chemical emergency response exercise supported by the governments of Canada, Spain, and the European Union.
He also announced the first-ever Dominican Week, organized in collaboration with the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the Kingdom of Belgium and the Euro Chamber of Commerce. The initiative will showcase strategic sectors of the Dominican economy, promote trade and investment opportunities, and facilitate networking between Dutch and Dominican businesses.
Switching to Spanish, Ambassador De la Mota reflected on the present and future of his country:
“El día de independencia es un momento de reflexión; no sólo de honrar el pasado, sino de celebrar el progreso que hemos alcanzado y lo que aún nos falta por lograr. República Dominicana seguirá creciendo, innovando, abriendo nuevos caminos de oportunidades, sin olvidar la mano de sus dominicanos que, como nosotros, aportamos desde el exterior mediante el servicio y el interés de ser ejemplo de excelencia.”
Ambassador De la Mota with fellow ambassadors from various countries attending the event.H.E. Mr. Carlos de la Mota with H.E. Ms Gracita Arrindell, Minister Plenipotentiary of Saint Maarten.
He continued:
“Nuestra democracia se fortalece por la participación activa de su gente. Nuestra economía se supera mediante la insaciable capacidad de innovación. Nuestra cultura continúa vibrando más allá del Caribe, con las notas de nuestro ritmo, el sabor de nuestras recetas y el cálido encuentro de nuestra presencia.”
As the celebration drew to a close, glasses were raised in tribute to the nation’s legacy and future.
“May the example of our Founding Fathers inspire us to live with humility, integrity, patriotism, and service wherever we may find ourselves,” Ambassador De la Mota concluded before closing with a patriotic proclamation: “¡Que viva la República Dominicana!”
Beyond the Ballot: How an Alderman Sees Youth, Elections, and Dutch Democracy
Stepping Aside After Decades of Service
After nearly 30 years in local politics, Frank Berkhout, Alderman of Amstelveen and member of D66, has announced he will not run in the 2026 municipal elections. In an exclusive interview at the Municipality of Amstelveen, Berkhout reflected on his career, the challenges of political life, and what comes next.
“Family and personal circumstances made me reconsider my work-life balance,” he said. “You can still serve the community, just in other positions.”
The Seduction of Power
Berkhoutspoke candidly about the temptations of political influence, comparing it to “the One Ring” from The Lord of the Rings. “Even at the municipal level, politicians sometimes cling to their positions until voters remove them. Every election, you should ask yourself if you’re bringing fresh ideas or making space for new voices.”
Frank Berkhout during his interview by members of Bright Future Foundation.
Collaboration is Key
The alderman highlighted the cooperative nature of Dutch politics. “Our system relies on balance and negotiation. Decision making depends on good relationships across parties. It can seem complex, especially for young voters, but that diversity ensures more voices are heard.”
Engaging Young Voters
Berkhout highlighted that not all young people are naturally drawn to politics. “Some just want the city to function well,” he noted. To encourage early engagement, Amstelveen has set up two youth councils – one for elementary students and another for high schoolers. Children elect a youth mayor, participate in a municipal council, and take part in annual debating competitions.
“It’s essential that young people feel represented. Even if higher positions require experience, advisory and participatory roles give them a voice,” he explained.
Looking Ahead
While Berkhout is stepping down from elected office, he plans to remain active in civic life and continue supporting D66 and the municipality in other capacities. His reflections underscore the importance of self-awareness, collaboration, and continuous renewal in a healthy democracy.
“Relinquishing power can be hard,” he said, “but it’s essential to keep our political system dynamic and resilient.”
This article is produced by Alexandra Osina, Taeyun Kim, Yasmine Masmoudi, Charahja van Broekhoven, Longrui Deng, Lauren van Laarhoven-Hargreaves, Beatrise Abelkalna, participants in the Bright Future Foundation, as part of the European Union’s “Participate & Promote Democracy” Youth Participation project, in cooperation with Diplomat Magazine, Embassy of the Netherlands in Armenia and young members of the Armenian partner organization Promising Youth.
The world feels as if it is living through history in fast-forward. Long-simmering rivalries are boiling over in multiple regions at once. Wars continue in Europe and the Middle East. Great power competition has returned to the Indo-Pacific. What began as rising unease has now edged into direct military confrontation between Iran and Israel, a development that has jolted diplomats, governments and ordinary people across the globe.
In a dramatic escalation, the United States and Israel launched coordinated air strikes across Iran, targeting military and nuclear-related infrastructure. Explosions were reported in Tehran and other cities. Leaders in Jerusalem and Washington described the operation as pre-emptive, aimed at neutralising what they characterised as an imminent threat to Israeli and regional security. Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency, closed its airspace and instructed civilians to seek shelter.
The strikes mark the most serious direct military clash between Israel and Iran in decades. For years, the two states have been engaged in what analysts often describe as a shadow or proxy war, backing opposing forces in Syria, Lebanon and elsewhere. This latest escalation crosses a threshold. It involves overt, large-scale military action on sovereign Iranian territory, followed by Iranian missile launches targeting Israeli territory and United States positions in the Gulf.
Iranian leaders condemned the strikes as clear violations of international law and breaches of the United Nations Charter. They invoked Article 51 of the Charter, the inherent right of self-defence, to justify retaliatory action. Israeli and American officials relied on the same legal provision to defend their own conduct. The result is a familiar but dangerous legal duel: both sides claiming defensive necessity, both accusing the other of aggression.
Casualty figures and damage assessments remain difficult to verify independently. Iranian state media reported civilian deaths in some of the affected areas. Western officials acknowledged that investigations into collateral damage were underway but rejected claims of deliberate targeting of civilians. In the fog of conflict, information travels fast, and clarity comes slowly. Conflicting narratives are already shaping public opinion far beyond the region.
The escalation has intensified concern among diplomats about the broader direction of the international system. For decades, the post-Second World War order was built around the premise that the use of force would be tightly constrained. The UN Charter prohibits military action against another state except in self-defence or with explicit Security Council authorisation. That framework was designed to prevent the kinds of spiralling conflicts that engulfed the world in the twentieth century.
Yet the credibility of that framework has been under strain for some time. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine exposed the paralysis of the Security Council when a permanent member is itself a party to the conflict. Now, with major military operations unfolding in the Middle East without Council authorisation, critics argue that the rules are being interpreted ever more flexibly by powerful states.
The problem is not simply that wars are occurring. Wars have, tragically, never disappeared. The deeper concern is that adherence to international law appears increasingly selective. States invoke legal norms when they support national interests and reinterpret or sidestep them when they do not. Over time, that pattern risks hollowing out the authority of the system itself.
Still, it would be wrong to conclude that international law is irrelevant. Even amid open hostilities, governments are careful to frame their actions in legal terms. They issue formal notifications to the United Nations. They publish legal justifications. They engage in arguments over proportionality, necessity and distinction. This behaviour suggests that legitimacy still matters. Law remains the language through which power is exercised and contested.
The present moment feels particularly volatile because multiple crises are unfolding simultaneously. In Europe, the war in Ukraine continues to reshape the continent’s security architecture. In the Middle East, the conflict between Israel and Hamas has already destabilised the region, and the confrontation with Iran adds another combustible layer. In the Indo-Pacific, tensions surrounding Taiwan and maritime claims in the South China Sea persist, with military exercises and diplomatic friction on the rise.
None of these theatres has yet coalesced into a single, unified global war. There is no formal mobilisation of opposing global alliances comparable to 1914 or 1939. That distinction is important. However, the risk lies in overlap. Regional wars can intersect. Miscalculations can multiply. An incident at sea, a misidentified missile, or an attack on a third country’s assets could draw additional actors into the fray.
Nuclear deterrence continues to cast a long shadow over strategic decision-making. The catastrophic consequences of confrontation between nuclear-armed states remain a powerful restraint. That reality has, so far, prevented the escalation of proxy or regional conflicts into full-scale great-power war. Yet deterrence is not foolproof. It relies on rational calculation, accurate information and functioning communication channels, all of which can be strained in moments of crisis.
There is also the human dimension, often absent from geopolitical analysis. For families in Tehran listening to air-raid sirens, for Israelis rushing to shelters, for communities already exhausted by years of regional instability, the debate about international law is not abstract. It is about survival. It is about whether the next night will bring more explosions or a fragile ceasefire.
Public discourse, amplified by social media and 24-hour news cycles, can magnify worst-case scenarios. The phrase “Third World War” travels quickly because it captures fear. But fear does not automatically equal inevitability. Diplomacy, though less visible than air strikes, continues behind closed doors. Emergency meetings at the United Nations, regional mediation efforts and quiet back-channel communications are all part of the machinery designed to prevent further escalation.
The credibility of international law will depend on whether states choose to reinforce it during this period of strain. That may involve renewed commitment to accountability mechanisms, clearer standards for the use of force in pre-emptive contexts, or reforms to strengthen multilateral institutions. None of these steps is easy. All require political will that is often in short supply during crises.
Is the world heading towards a third world war? The honest answer is that the risk environment has grown more dangerous, but a global conflagration is not yet a defined or unavoidable reality. What we are witnessing is systemic stress, a period in which power balances are shifting, technological change is complicating deterrence, and trust between major actors is thin.
History shows that global wars are rarely inevitable. They emerge from accumulated misjudgements, rigid positions and failures of communication. The same history also shows that restraint, even at moments of intense rivalry, can prevent catastrophe.
The recent confrontation between Iran and Israel is a stark reminder of how quickly escalation can occur. It underscores the fragility of the current order and the urgent need for diplomacy anchored in credible legal norms. International law cannot stop missiles in flight. But it provides a framework that can reduce uncertainty, structure negotiations, and define limits.
Whether the coming years are remembered as a prelude to wider war or as a turbulent but contained chapter will depend on decisions being taken now, in Washington, Tehran, Jerusalem, Moscow, Beijing and beyond. The tools to prevent global conflict still exist. The question is whether there is enough collective resolve to use them.
About the author:
Ayesha Asim
Ayesha Asim, is a PhD Scholar in law and LLM International Law, Legal Analyst, lecturer, and with extensive experience in legal research, advisory, policy analysis and teaching. Columbia university.edu
