The role of NGOs to protect civilians in armed conflicts

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The role of NGOs to protect civilians in armed conflicts

HRWF (29.03.2024) – Armed conflicts are very often triggered despite prevention efforts deployed over years and decades by domestic and foreign political powers as well as by local and international non-governmental organizations.

These conflicts cause victims among combatants but also among civilians, as shown by the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.


By Willy Fautré, director of Human Rights Without Frontiers

In the case of Russia, as a potential threat to the security and the sovereignty of its neighboring countries, our organization, Human Rights Without Frontiers, has contributed for decades to the development of human rights NGOs and activists in the country. We have raised our voice every time restrictions of their activities and repressive measures have been taken by the Russian government to silence journalists and critical voices of civil society.

On the one hand, prevention of repeated conflicts can be effective and consolidate reconciliation and peace between historical enemies. This was the case between Germany and France with the construction of a security architecture rooted in the creation of the European Union after World War II. On the other hand, prevention is sometimes only effective for a limited period of time because a state or a non-state actor has decided to breach the international code of conduct that had been adopted, monitored and enforced by the United Nations.

The protection of civilians during wars is a major priority because they are not involved as direct actors in armed conflicts but we notice that they are more and more used as human shields, instrumentalized by warring parties and targeted on purpose by shelling to destroy the morale of the population and their political leaders.

Killing civilians is a war crime. Taking civilians as hostages is a war crime. Deporting thousands of children from the Ukrainian occupied territories to Russia is a war crime.

It is the duty of human rights organizations to monitor, document, make public war crimes, to denounce them through the various mechanisms of the United Nations and other international institutions. Such advocacy is meant to dissuade the warring parties from persisting in egregious violations of human rights but also to have an anticipation role: to avoid more civilian victims.

It is the duty of NGOs to defend the legal and moral standards meant to rule the relations between states and peoples. In the case of the deportation of 20,000 Ukrainian children to and by Russia, we have documented the issue and sent our report to the International Criminal Court. We have made it public through written and oral statements at the UN Human Rights Council but also at the last meeting of the UN Human Rights Committee on Child’s Rights which had Russia on its agenda. We have also identified a state in the Middle East which had mediated between Russia and Ukraine and had successfully managed to get from Russia the repatriation of a dozen Ukrainian children and several family reunifications. These are initiatives that NGOs are expected to take.

Furthermore, NGOs play a pivotal role in providing humanitarian assistance and support to conflict-affected populations. From delivering food aid and medical supplies to offering psychosocial support and legal assistance, they address the immediate needs of civilians caught in the turmoil of war. By operating impartially and independently, they strive to alleviate human suffering, uphold the principles of neutrality and impartiality, and safeguard the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their affiliations or backgrounds.

In doing so, they bridge the gap between grassroots activism and global governance, driving systemic change and fostering environments conducive to peacebuilding.

Contributing to peace is a long-term and complex issue. A ceasefire is not peace. A frozen conflict is not peace.

Peace processes are first of all the result of political decisions by the warring parties: the aggressors and the aggressed. External pressure by international institutions such as the United Nations and by the heads of other states can lead to a truce or a temporary ceasefire to open a space for discussion and negotiations but this is only a first small and modest step in a solid peacebuilding process.

It is the duty of domestic and international human rights organizations to engage in conflict resolution and peacebuilding initiatives, working alongside local communities, civil society actors, and peace mediators to mitigate tensions. It is their duty to foster dialogue and build sustainable peace but it can take a lot of time, years and even decades. By facilitating reconciliation processes, promoting interethnic dialogue, and supporting grassroots initiatives for conflict transformation, NGOs contribute to the long-term stability and social cohesion of war-torn societies.

In essence, the role of non-profit human rights organizations in promoting peace and protecting civilians in armed conflicts is not be overstated. They serve as moral guardians of human dignity, advocates for justice, and catalysts for positive change in some of the world’s most challenging environments. However, their efforts are not without obstacles, as they often operate in hostile or restrictive contexts, facing threats to their safety, limited resources, and political obstacles.

Nonetheless, their unwavering commitment to the principles of human rights and peace remains a beacon of hope in the midst of darkness, inspiring collective action and solidarity in the pursuit of a more just and peaceful world.

But it cannot be forgotten that there is no lasting peace without justice and there can be no justice without lasting peace.

Published by Human Rights Without Frontiers – HRWF

The Role of Intelligence Services as Part of Foreign Policy

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The Role of Intelligence Services as Part of Foreign Policy

The importance of intelligence services in the area of foreign policy comprises the central topic of this work, most notably relations between intelligence analysts and policymakers. To this end, issues are addressed regarding  professional ethics and politicization of intelligence services. This piece results from an exclusive interview with Eric Denécé*, Director of the French Centre for Intelligence Studies (CF2R).

According to data provided by Eric Denécé, Director of the French Centre for Intelligence Studies (CF2R), he performed the following duties, inter alia: 


-Naval Intelligence Officer (analyst) / Strategic Evaluation Division – General Secretariat of the French National Defense

-Consultant to the French Defense Ministry in projects linked to the future of the French Special Forces and South China Sea disputes

-Served various French and European companies on intelligence, counterintelligence, information operations and risk management issues in Europe and Asia

-In France, he lectured in the field of intelligence at Ecole Nationale d’Administration, National Defence College, Air Force College and Military School for Overseas and Foreign Assignments.

Interview

– Considering the entire intelligence cycle, to what extent is the analysis stage important?

Eric Denécé (ED): All phases of the intelligence cycle are important, analysis as much as any other, and no more than any other. Indeed, if a problem is poorly posed and the lines of research poorly defined, information gathering cannot be effective. Sometimes, even though the objectives are clearly defined, the process fails to produce results (inaccessible secrets or operational failure). Analysis can only be carried out if the information gathered by human or technical means is available.

It’s true that Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) has changed the situation, as an analysis service can now produce a result from open resources. But that’s not what we’re asking of an intelligence service, otherwise academics with a mastery of intelligence techniques would suffice!

In reality, there are two complementary but very different approaches in the intelligence field: research (using human or technical resources), i.e. the ability to access information protected by an adversary or competitor; and analysis, which is the ability to make sense of a set of data, secret or not, in the context of answering a question posed by the authorities, political or military.

– In your view, what features should be present in a good intelligence analyst in order to support a certain country’s foreign policy?

ED: The qualities required of a good analyst, whatever the subject (foreign policy is far from being the only one) are, in my opinion, the following:

– culture, both general and specialized, as he or she must be both an expert in his or her field, but also capable of widening his or her field of reflection to other areas

– a good knowledge of what fieldwork is (which is not his or her own), but which enables him or her to understand the possibilities and limits of human and technical research.

– intuition, deductive and inductive skills, the ability to make inferences,

– doubt, because he must assume that facts are often manipulated or distorted, or that his adversary is trying to intoxicate him. He must constantly look beyond appearances.

– stubbornness, because you must never be satisfied with the facts at hand; you must constantly re-investigate to get an accurate picture of the situation (while respecting the deadlines set for your mission).

– analytical and synthesizing skills, writing skills and the ability to clearly express what they know, what they don’t know and what they should continue to investigate.

– How relevant is the professional ethics of someone working in intelligence services, especially regarding analysts?

ED: To understand how ethics work in the world of intelligence, it is essential to differentiate between two things:

On the one hand, the ethics of intelligence, i.e. the very vocation of the discipline, whose purpose may be more or less easily accepted by a society, depending on its history, values and situation. The process of gathering information is in no way open to criticism. On the other hand, it can become so if the means used to achieve it are concealed, questionable or illegal. 

On the other hand, the ethics of intelligence, which concern professional practices and the spirit in which the men and women who have chosen this path carry them out. But it is difficult to talk about ethics without considering each of the intelligence professions separately. Indeed, the question arises in very different ways, depending on the function under consideration:

– the ethics of the client and the purpose of the mission,

– research ethics,

– ethics in the analysis and presentation of facts to policy-makers,

– ethics in action,

– but also the ethics of the individual.

Reflection on the ethics of intelligence, initiated by the Anglo-Saxon world, is still in its infancy. It is therefore difficult to provide definitive answers to this emerging debate. Indeed, it would be a grave error to apply the ethical rules in force in other areas of social or administrative life to the intelligence services. Of course, rules are essential, but they must take into account the specific vocation of the intelligence services, because in this field even less than in any other, a code of conduct cannot be defined from the outside.

This ethical requirement is an important issue for the services themselves. Such a demanding and special profession cannot be carried out without the operators themselves having a solid moral framework and a code of conduct that provides them with the essential reference points to avoid lapsing into schizophrenia, paranoia or uncontrolled delinquency.

University of Lisbon logo1.Connecting


– From your standpoint, what preparation do intelligence analysts need to collaborate with policymakers, as part of a given Government’s foreign policy?

ED: In my opinion, it is not up to analysts to present their conclusions to politicians. Any intelligence service must have its own specialists who can pass on important information, and how it reacts to them, and who also know how to gather and make them specify their requests before entrusting them to those who will plan the operational research. These men or women may be former analysts or operational people who have reached management level and are therefore in a position to dialogue with the principals. In fact, this is often a task reserved for the director or senior managers of a department. This is so the case in the United States with the President Daily Briefing.

– The way you see it, would it be useful for policymakers to get some sort of training that enables them to get to know the inner workings and actual capabilities of intelligence services?

ED: I think it’s vital that politicians with major responsibilities for national security receive at least a minimum of intelligence training. In other words, they need to know what the various agencies in the national community do, what they can and cannot do depending on their status and speciality, how they work and what they can realistically ask of them. Politicians often have two extreme attitudes when it comes to intelligence: either they despise the services and distrust the “agents”, whose ill-considered actions they fear; or they totally fantasize about what a service can do, and ask them for anything that is often unachievable… and so end up despising them in return. 

It is therefore essential to explain to them clearly (and within the limits of confidentiality) what they can ask and expect from the intelligence and security services.

– In your opinion, as part of foreign policy, what advantages do policymakers have when they make their decisions based on intelligence analysis?

ED: A political leader makes policy. His decision-making system is based on his vision, his experience, the information the service can provide him with, and the information he receives from other sources (other government services, personal networks)… and his own interests. This means that he can sometimes disregard the secret information provided to him if, at the same time, he has to respond to political or electoral issues that are essential to him. But of course, it’s rare for leaders to neglect national security. But intelligence officers often fail to understand this. Their activity is really just a “service”, comparable to a consulting business, and the client decides whether or not to act after receiving their reports. 

– What do you feel the negative consequences of politicizing intelligence services can entail for the services in question and, as such, also for the Government itself?

ED: The politicization of intelligence is partly necessary and partly harmful.

It’s necessary in the sense that it’s good for the head of an intelligence service to be close to and trusted by a president or prime minister. It will be easier for him to explain what his agency can do… and to pass on bad news, without hiding anything.

When this is not the case (cf. the poor relations between the White House and the CIA under Bill Clinton), the service is not taken into consideration, sidelined from the centers of power, or even worse, the authorities may resort to parallel networks, with the negative effects we know about (cf. Watergate).

But politicization must be limited to this. Under no circumstances must it “descend” into the department’s operational or analytical activities, which must remain completely politically neutral, i.e. strictly professional and focused on preserving internal and external security.

*This interview was conducted, via email, on February 19, 2024

Photo by: Jorge Marinho

Published by Marinho Media Analysis / March 5, 2024 and by  International Affairs Forum – Center for International Relations (Washington D.C., United States of America) / March 6, 2024

About the authors:

Jorge Marinho

Jorge Marinho – PhD in Communication Sciences, BA in International Journalism.

e-mail: marinho.mediaanalysis@gmail.com

Júlio Ventura

Júlio Ventura – MA in Political Science and International Relations, BA in Law, member of the European Parliament trainee (Brussels, Belgium)
 

Lourenço Ribeiro

Lourenço Ribeiro – BA in Sociology, MA student in Public Policy at Iscte – University Institute of Lisbon (Portugal)
 

Legacy of a Diplomatic Luminary: Honoring Dr. José Gustavo Guerrero

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Legacy of a Diplomatic Luminary: Honoring Dr. José Gustavo Guerrero

Last President of the Permanent Court of International Justice – First President of the International Court of Justice

In the annals of Salvadoran diplomacy, one name stands out as a beacon of integrity, wisdom, and commitment to justice: Dr. José Gustavo Guerrero. Sixty-five years after his passing, diplomatic representatives from the diplomatic community, family members, junior and senior diplomats gathered in the house of the Salvadoran Diplomacy to pay homage to a man whose life’s work continues to inspire us to strive for peace and international justice. Madam Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alexandra Hill Tinoco stated that Dr. Guerrero’s legacy is not merely a historical footnote; it is a guiding light for present and future diplomats, both in El Salvador and beyond.

Born in San Salvador in 1876, Dr. Guerrero’s journey began with a steadfast adherence to his values. Even in his youth, he displayed remarkable leadership, co-founding a student newspaper that fearlessly tackled prevailing economic concerns—a testament to his commitment to doing what was right from an early age. This courage and conviction would characterize his entire career.

Dr. Guerrero’s diplomatic odyssey commenced in 1902 when he was appointed as Consul of El Salvador in Bordeaux, marking the beginning of a distinguished trajectory. From Italy to Washington DC, and later as Envoy Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to France, Spain, and Italy, he navigated the turbulent waters of early 20th-century geopolitics with grace and diplomacy.

In an era marked by rising nationalism and imperialism, Dr. Guerrero’s writings reflected a deep appreciation for the art of diplomacy—a realm where courtesy, restraint, and mutual respect were paramount. His experiences in Europe during this tumultuous period shaped his understanding of international relations and underscored the importance of dialogue and cooperation in fostering peace.

Dr. José Gustavo Guerrero, Last President of the Permanent Court of International Justice – First President of the International Court of Justice.

Dr. Guerrero’s contributions extended beyond diplomatic missions; he played a pivotal role in shaping international law and order. As a member of the Commission for the Progressive Codification of International Law, he contributed to treaty negotiations that laid the groundwork for the modern global order. His expertise and negotiating acumen earned him recognition as a Member of the Court of the Permanent Court of Arbitration—a testament to his diplomatic prowess.

His tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador saw the professionalization of diplomatic and consular careers in El Salvador, leaving an indelible mark on future generations of Salvadoran diplomats. His legacy is commemorated annually on June 26th, a fitting tribute to his service and dedication to the diplomatic corps.

In 1931, Dr. Guerrero embarked on a new chapter as a Judge of the world’s highest Court of Justice—a role he would later assume as President of the Court. Amidst the chaos of World War II, his unwavering courage was on full display when he stood up to the German high command to protect the sanctity of the Permanent Court of International Justice—a testament to his commitment to justice in the face of adversity.

Beyond his judicial duties, Dr. Guerrero remained deeply connected to his Salvadoran roots. His vision for a unified Central America may not have come to fruition, but his efforts laid the groundwork for the Central American Integration System (SICA), providing a platform for regional cooperation and solidarity.

Dr. Guerrero’s legacy extends far beyond his diplomatic and judicial achievements; he was a patriot and a visionary who believed that peace could only be achieved through justice. His seminal work, “The International Order,” continues to influence scholars and practitioners alike, reminding us that the pursuit of peace requires a steadfast commitment to justice and equity.

According to Dr. Philippe Couvreur, former Registrar of the International Court of Justice, the tribute to Dr. Guerrero undoubtedly represents a vibrant homage to the country of his birth, whose image he consistently elevated and whose interests he staunchly defended, alongside those of the Permanent Court of International Justice and the International Court of Justice, where he served as a pivotal figure and served as the quintessential link. By ensuring continuity between both Courts, Dr. Guerrero decisively contributed to the development of a robust and effective international justice system, which has proven its significance, both as a tool for preventive diplomacy and during moments of acute international crisis.

As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. José Gustavo Guerrero, let us not merely commemorate the past but draw inspiration from his example to chart a course towards a more just and peaceful world. In a time marked by uncertainty and division, his vision of diplomacy guided by values of integrity, tolerance, and mutual respect remains as relevant as ever—a timeless reminder of the power of diplomacy to build bridges and forge a brighter future for generations to come.

In March 2024,H.E. Ambassador Agustín Vásquez Gómez had the distinct privilege of presenting in San Salvador a publication emanating from the research endeavors of the Diplomatic Institute “Dr. José Gustavo Guerrero.” This meticulous study delved into the illustrious life and profound contributions of a distinguished Salvadoran luminary. Through his erudition, magnetism, and remarkable ability to connect with the needs of the Nations at his time, he indelibly imprinted upon the collective conscience the noble pursuit of global peace and justice, a legacy that still sounds within the halls of the International Court of Justice.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration @ 125

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The Permanent Court of Arbitration @ 125

Its Contributions to International Law and Diplomacy 

By H.E. Mr. J. Eduardo Malaya

Eminent international law personalities from 122 countries will converge on June 12 at the Peace Palace in The Hague for a rare Congress of the Members of the Court of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). This gathering of individuals representing the Contracting Parties to the 1899 and 1907 Conventions for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes will assess the past and current workings of the organization and chart out its future. The significance of the Congress, which has the theme “Court fit for its Time: Continuing the Evolution of the Permanent Court of Arbitration towards the fulfilment of its Promise,” is underpinned by its being only the third time in the organization’s 125-year history that such a meeting will take place.

The prominence of The Hague as City of Peace and Justice – or as referred to by UN Secretary General Boutrous Boutrous-Ghali, the “legal capital of the world” – derives from having the Peace Palace, a seven-hectare compound with a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building which hosts three of the world’s most cherished international law institutions – the PCA, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and the century-old Hague Academy of International Law.

The PCA’s contributions to the peaceful settlement of disputes and the development of international law are fairly well known. Since its establishment in 1899, the PCA has institutionalized the practice of arbitration and other forms of dispute resolution between states, and made them more accessible. The awards and decisions rendered by its various tribunals and commissions, including the landmark 1928 case Island of Las Palmas, has significantly enriched international law.

Origins of Multilateralism

Less known but equally significant is the PCA’s contributions to diplomacy as we know it today. The first International Peace Conference held in The Hague in 1899 that gave birth to the PCA also planted the seeds that later germinated into the League of Nations and the Permanent Court of International Justice and their successors, the UN and its judicial organ, the ICJ.

As Prof Harold Hongju Koh noted at a forum in June 2023, the 1899 Hague Conference was innovative in many ways. “It was the first official peace conference that did not occur in the aftermath of a major war. It was the beginning of the modern form of international conference like the League of Nations and the United Nations. Second, it was the first major conference that represented a wide range of the world’s nation states, from the West, the East and the Americas, each given a single equal vote. So, whereas not exclusively limited to Western powers, it was not just a great power exercise, it was a global gathering, a precursor to today’s General Assembly…”

The conference established the PCA, a pioneer of the modern forms of international dispute resolution, and saw the birth of modern multilateralism, the organizing principle of the UN and similar bodies.  

A Court fit for the times

In operations for the last 125 years, the PCA has developed into a modern, multi-faceted arbitral institution perfectly situated to meet the evolving dispute resolution needs of the international community. It has a three-part organizational structure consisting of an Administrative Council composed of representatives of its 122 Contracting Parties that oversees its policies and budgets, a panel of independent potential arbitrators known as the Members of the Court, and the Secretariat, known as the International Bureau, headed by the Secretary-General.

After prolonged periods of inactivity, the PCA had a revival in the late eighties and has since evolved into a modern international dispute settlement institution with one of the heaviest caseloads of all international courts, supporting in 2023 alone a record 218 registry cases and handling 50 requests relating to its appointing authority functions.

The PCA has also assisted the UN in peacemaking and resolving conflicts through its mechanisms, such as the Eritrea/Yemen dispute and the Abyei Arbitration. With its services forming a fundamental aspect of the rule of law, the PCA has helped promote the UN’s three pillars of peace and security, human rights and development, and assist in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.

With the ICJ focused on judicial settlement of disputes, PCA offers enquiry, mediation, conciliation and arbitration, thus together they cover all the means for the peaceful settlement of disputes recommended in Article 33 of the UN Charter. In view of this, U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan in 2004 described the PCA and ICJ as “complementary institutions offering the international community a comprehensive range of options for the pacific settlement of international disputes.”

Mr. Jose Eduardo Malaya

Governance reforms

The PCA’s procedural rules have been updated and modernized, and its areas of competence expanded into new areas of dispute resolution, notably the adoption of procedural rules for arbitration and conciliation of disputes regarding natural resources and the environment, and the outer space. Its role has been enhanced in administering arbitration under Annex VII of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, serving as registry for almost all of the UNCLOS arbitrations conducted pursuant to said Annex, and the only compulsory conciliation conducted pursuant to Annex V.

To make its services more accessible in different regions of the world, the PCA now has offices in Buenos Aires, Hanoi, Mauritius, Singapore and Vienna.

Reforms have improved its organizational governance, with the conduct in 2021 of the first-ever competitive election for the position of Secretary General, currently held by Dr. Marcin Czepelak, the first non-Dutch in said office. The position of acting President of the Administration Council was created in 2019, and it is now rotated among the regional groups every two years. 

Towards a meaningful 125th anniversary

It has been a distinct honor for me to have been elected in late 2022 as Acting President of the Administrative Council for term 2023-2024. To highlight the contributions of the PCA to international peace and security, I initiated and worked with Secretary General Czepelac and colleagues at the Philippine Mission to the UN in New York and a Core Group of link-minded missions on the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution for the anniversary.

The UN reinforced its bonds with the PCA when on August 1, 2023, the General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/77/322 welcoming the anniversary and commending the PCA for its significant contributions to world peace and justice. “Recognizing the important contribution of the PCA to the peaceful settlement of disputes,” the General Assembly “encourages Member States to make use of the PCA’s services, consistent with international law, in arbitration, conciliation, mediation, commission of inquiry, and other peaceful means of dispute resolution and to support (its) activities…”

The UNGA resolution is significant for at least three reasons. It was adopted by consensus, with 120 co-sponsors, which is a remarkable majority at a time when the assembly is often polarized. It is only the second resolution ever from the UNGA on the PCA, the first one in 1993 when the latter was invited to participate in its proceedings as an observer. The call for accession is also timely as only 122 of the 193 UN Member States are PCA Contracting Parties, and thus 71 are yet to be part of it. 

To lend a festive air to the upcoming anniversary and upon the invitation of the Embassy of the Philippines, the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus (UPCC) will visit The Hague and perform at the Diligentia Theater on June 6, a few days before the Congress. The country’s premier and multi-awarded university-based choir, the UPCC has gained acclaim in bridging musical genres such as classical, folk, pop and Broadway with their signature “choreocapella” (choreographed a capella singing) and will highlight songs of peace, among others.

In an era where international peace and security are facing serious challenges, the PCA’s services take on even greater significance. To the surprise of perhaps its founders 125 years ago, the PCA has endured, adapted and thrived, akin to a wise person who regained youthful strides.

About the author:

Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya

Mr. Jose Eduardo Malaya, is the Acting President of the PCA Administrative Council for term 2023-2024, a Member of the Court of the PCA, and the Ambassador of the Philippines to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Life at the ‘Hanging Spring Pavilion’

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Life at the ‘Hanging Spring Pavilion’

By Prof. Richard T. Griffiths

Dunhuang is an oasis town at the edge of the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. Its waters have welcomed travellers over the centuries. I was privileged to be there in 2017. Nearby are the Mogao caves, with their Buddhist images and decoration.

They are also famous for the thousands of documents discovered there, and stolen/saved by the Western archaeologists, which shed new light on the culture, beliefs, and daily life between 1500 and 1000 years ago.

In September 1987 a maintenance crew, working on a road some 64 kms east of Dunhuang, stumbled across an area of grey coloured sand indicating the existence of some ancient building.

The chief archaeologist went in person to investigate. It cost him a whole day simply to locate the site, but on the second he and his team found some pottery and some silk that allowing them to place the site in the Western Han Dynasty (202BCE-220CE). What they had discovered was one of the 80 postal stations between Chang’an (the capital of Han dynasty China) and Dunhuang, one almost every 20 kilometers.

It was important discovery – no more, no less. However, when two years later, evidence emerged that the site was becoming prey to looters, the authorities authorised an emergency rescue excavation. The excavations lasted until 1992 and it took another three years to register all the finds.

Archive photograph of the Excavations

A total of more than 70,000 pieces of various cultural relics were unearthed, including 30,000 pieces of pottery, 6000 pieces of wool, pieces of metal tools, remnants of food and the bones of various animals.

Most important of all, they discovered more than 23,000 Chinese bamboo slips with Chinese characters, 10 silk books, 10 paper documents, and more than 460 pieces of linen paper. It is these that allow us to reconstruct daily life of an outpost at the edge of the empire.

Aerial view of the excavated Xuanquanzhi site

The written slips of bamboo tell us how this the site acquired its name. Legend had it that a general provided water for his thirsty troops be striking a rock with his sabre allowing water to flow. Its source was four miles up a ravine to the north of the pavilion. The spring was rumoured to be magical, adjusting its flow according to the number of people needing it. The name ‘pavilion’ changed over time…. from pavilion, to shelter, to post-station, to relay-station. Its functions remained the same – facilitating the movement of correspondence, receiving official delegations, and providing food and accommodation for travellers.

The site itself was a based on a 50×50-meter square courtyard with high walls (to protect from the high winds) and 29 earthen houses of various sizes inside and outside the courtyard. There were also some auxiliary buildings such as stables on the south and east sides of the courtyard. Moreover, a one-kilometre section of the post road, four metres wide, was discovered near the north wall.

The most complete set of eighteen bamboo slips

The bamboo slips provide the insights into daily life at the edge of the empire. This was not easy since they were mostly written in a script that has long since disappeared. This turned out to be a kind of simplified-Chinese developed by the military as a form of shorthand for writing messages quickly. The most complete document comprised 18 slips.

It also captures one of the main functions – receiving official delegations. It is early spring and the weather is cold. Se Fuhing, the chief officer of the station learns that a delegation of 84 officials and 300 soldiers belonging to Changluo Hou Changhui, a high ranking courtier, was due to pass by. Knowing the imperial hierarchy, Se Fuhing decides to pull out all the stops and preside over a feast for his guests – there are more than ten kinds of food on the table: beef, sheep, chicken, fish, wine, rice, millet, sauce, black beans and soup.

Artist’s impression of the Hanging Spring Pavilion

Kings and queens, ambassadors and envoys, from over 20 countries are recorded as having passed through the Hanging Spring’s facilities. In one reception, the King of Khotan arrived with 1,060 followers and more than 300 cups were used (everyone got to eat, only the more distinguished guests got to drink).

The passage of Princess Winsum required the laying of a special carpet in the dining room. On and on go the records – delegations of 34, 35, 70, 300, and even bigger passed through the site (those not qualified for a room slept in tents in the courtyard). In many cases, the accompanying cattle, camels and horses were also recorded – these would be part of ‘tribute trade’ which was really a form of high-stakes barter trade. There is one thing that is missing from all of this – there are no records of caravans passing through and in all the documentation, only 20 slips have any mention of trade goods. This should not be taken to mean that there was no trade. Many of the slips record along-side the ‘tribute’ animals, the presence of ‘private’ horses and camels. Clearly private merchants were travelling with the delegations, or even masquerading as official delegations.

On the wall of one of the outer buildings, archaeologists found the inscription of an Imperial edict dating from 5CE – entitled The Monthly Ordinances for the Four Seasons. There are 50 monthly orders that specify what should be done and what should not be done each month. The orders establish that all work involving agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, logging and fishing should follow the natural time sequence, in effect trying to ​​protect the agricultural ecosystem, forest resources, animal and water resources… possibly the world’s earliest “Environmental Protection Law”.

A letter home

Finally, I must mention one personal letter, written on silk and beautifully preserved. It is written by Yuan, a junior officer, to his friend and colleague, Zifang. After the usual greetings, there follows a list of suggestions and requests – buy yourself some new leather shoes and five good quality brushes, don’t forget to visit Jing Zifang, remind the family to write, to get a private seal engraved for Lu An, and buy Gua Yingwie a whip. I wonder if this was his own copy and whether the original was even posted. Did Guo Yingwei ever get his whip?

The site has now been backfilled to protect its integrity. Visitors can see the outlines and the corner piers on the north east and southwest. Meanwhile, there are tens of other post- and relay stations waiting to be discovered. Time will tell what treasures they will reveal. The Hanging Spring Pavilion is one of the ten sites featured in an exhibition about the Caravanserai of the silk road.

Screen shot of the Caravnserai Exhibition

You can find the exhibition and the supporting eLibrary at:

https://silkroadvirtualmuseum.com/caravanserai

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New adventures are always waiting

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New adventures are always waiting

By Alexandra Paucescu

In the diplomatic world, it is not uncommon for partners of diplomats to leave their jobs behind to travel the world and pursue new opportunities, sometimes even new career paths. There are only a few cases in which both partners can continue their initial careers and develop professionally unhindered. When it comes to diplomats, these happy cases are even rarer.

Sonja Gebauer, now Head of Press and Protocol Department and Political Counsellor at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Bucharest, is one of them. Married to a career diplomat, she had the chance to see the diplomatic world from two different perspectives: as a diplomat herself and as a diplomatic spouse.

‘Both my husband and I always had the chance to work together at the German Embassy during our postings abroad. And I am very grateful to the Federal Foreign Office that they are supportive of couples being posted together which is, of course, not always easy to organize. I consider it a great privilege to represent my country as a diplomat abroad, thereby contributing to foster the relations of Germany with our many partners in the world. I joined the German diplomatic service more than 25 years ago and one thing that fascinated me from the beginning was that I was able to get to know new people, explore new countries and dive into different cultures. Having a Master in Political Sciences I am interested in international politics and even after such a long time being a diplomat is the most rewarding job I can imagine. I had the chance to live in New York, Tel Aviv, Tokyo, Bangkok and now in Bucharest and I can say that each of these postings was amazing. I am thankful for all the experiences and the different areas I could work in, be it in the political, economic or cultural field, but most fulfilling is of course the opportunity to meet many interesting people during your time abroad.

Sonja Gebauer, Head of Press and Protocol Department and Political Counsellor at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Bucharest. Copyright @Adrian Cobzasu

It´s hard to say where I felt happiest, because each of these postings reflects a different, very special period of my life. Obviously, it´s fascinating to start as a young diplomatic trainee in your early twenties in New York, the city that really never sleeps. But it was also a wonderful experience for me and my husband to serve as young German diplomats in Israel and in Japan. And I also remember how exciting it was to move abroad for the first time with our two little children to Bangkok. I have very fond memories of all these stations in my life.’

Sonja says that, with time, she found the right attitude to enjoy each move and embrace each change with hope and excitement. ’Of course, moving every three to four years is sometimes exhausting, but I always felt very energized when we learnt where we were moving next. I think it´s good to concentrate on the positive sides of a new posting – be it the beautiful nature, exciting new city, nice weather etc. and not to think about what you are missing or what is maybe not as convenient as back home. This has always helped me to enjoy each posting and make the best out of it.

If you ask me where HOME is, it´s now clearly Berlin! I grew up in the countryside near Stuttgart, my family is still living there and we visit them often. But Berlin is HOME now, where both our children were born, where we have most of our friends, our house and where we have been working for the Federal Foreign Office in between postings abroad – it´s our home base so to say and will always be.’

She is clearly passionate about her work, which, she confesses, she doesn’t see as a ‘9 to 5’ job. ‘You can be part of deepening the relations between Germany and your host country – and this can be done in so many ways, depending where you are: Be it peace mediation in conflict situations, supporting civil society and cultural diplomacy or promoting German businesses abroad.’

Sonja and husband, Dr Peer Gebauer. Copyright @Adrian Cobzasu

She always gets involved with local NGOs and women networks; she builds networks and friendships wherever they are. ‘I am very grateful for the many fascinating and courageous women I met all over the world. This has inspired me a lot to advocate our “Feminist Foreign Policy” in order to make sure that women and girls have equal rights, representation and resources, because our societies are more successful if we have an equal participation of women and if all groups of society are involved. Strong female networks help in achieving this goal. Therefore, we have founded a Women´s Association, “Frauen@diplo”, in our Federal Foreign Office a few years ago in order to promote gender equality both in our foreign policy but also within our Ministry. Here in Romania, I am amazed about the wonderful and active civil society. We work with many NGOs, agencies and politicians to support gender equality and fight against gender based violence. Raising awareness is so important!’

She is an active and involved woman who often tries to juggle between all the responsibilities she has in everyday life, as diplomat, wife and mother. ‘In general, I think it´s essential that we try to combine both, being posted abroad as a diplomatic spouse but also pursue our own profession, interests or hobbies. I like travelling, try to do sports, but I have to admit that with a full-time job and two children I don´t have so much time for hobbies.’

Sonja speaks modestly about all the activities and the many hats she wears. She encourages all diplomatic partners to find their role, separate from that of their spouses. ‘You certainly have your own role to play and you can contribute to diplomatic relations as yourself, as an individual and not only as the spouse of… I think it´s important to build your own networks when you move to a new posting, get engaged, meet with civil society groups.’

Experience speaks for itself, and Sonja adds at the end: ‘you need to think positive and always try to look at the beautiful and interesting aspects of life, your new host country, the new people you meet, the new adventures that are waiting for you!’


About the author:

Alexandra Paucescu

Alexandra Paucescu- Author of “Just a Diplomatic Spouse” Romanian, management graduate with a Master in business, cultural diplomacy and international relations studies.

She speaks Romanian, English, French, German and Italian,  gives lectures on intercultural communication and is an active NGO volunteer.

Uruguay is a farmer’s paradise

Diplomat Magazine
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Uruguay is a farmer’s paradise

By Eric van de Beek

Dutch farmers considering emigration are not thinking primarily about South America. That would possibly be different if they knew about the opportunities on the continent. Three Dutch nationals living in Uruguay are full of enthusiasm. “If you want to have a future as a farmer, you have to farm somewhere else, where you can still are enabled to act as an entrepreneur.”

Located on the west coast of the Atlantic Ocean and bordering Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is more than four times the size of The Netherlands but has five times fewer inhabitants. One and a half million of them live in the capital Montevideo. So there’s space in abundance for the other two million. Outside the capital there are many times more cows, sheep and horses than people. Uruguay’s main export product is beef, with soy in second place. Three Dutch nationals knowledgeable about the agricultural sector praise Uruguay for its favourable business climate, level of prosperity, political and economic stability and its western culture, among other things. They think there’s no future for farmers in The Netherlands. They are forced to curb animal numbers and to cut nitrogen emissions.

Gert Jan Mulder bought a 423-hectare farm in 2002, which he transformed – in his own words – into “a paradise” and which subsequently became worth “at least 12 times more”. Mulder, a former Rabobank representative for Latin America, did not lack financial means before he started farming, but the sale of his farm to a “rich North-American” two years ago, netted the farmer’s son a capital. Now he lives in Uruguay’s Saint-Tropez, Punta del Este, in a stylish villa, a stone’s throw from the beach. Last year, Mulder’s autobiography came out, entitled Vrijwel Onbeperkt, in which he looked back at his life. But it is mainly the present that keeps him busy, especially Dutch government policy that – in his opinion – has brought the country to the brink of the abyss. Mulder likes to talk a lot about issues such as mass immigration, Islamisation, wokeness, the ever-expanding civil service, Europe’s confrontational course towards Russia, the erosion of national sovereignty – but not right now. Our topic of conversation is the opportunities for Dutch farmers in Uruguay.

 “If I was still on a farm in the Netherlands, from yet another generation of my family, I would tell them to get lost,” Mulder says. “I wouldn’t let them chase me away from my land. So it’s great that those farmers are resisting. I support them. But that does not take away from the fact that in recent decades a number of trends have been set in motion that mean that a farmer in Europe, and certainly in the Netherlands, can no longer do business freely. If you want to have a future, you have to farm somewhere else, where you can still be an entrepreneur.”

Like in Uruguay. “I’ve had a farm in Uruguay for over 20 years and in that period of time I’ve been visited by officials only twice. Once they came to see if I had vaccinated the cattle against foot-and-mouth disease. And the second time some official from the capital came to ask why I didn’t participate in the census. So those two official visits in 20 years have taught me that you can do business freely here. The only thing that has been restricted in recent years is that you have to rotate your crops to keep the soil quality right. So you can’t do soya, soya, soya. How often you can grow soya or anything else depends on the quality of the soil. To grow crops, you have to submit a plan where you have to observe certain parameters. Other than that, you are just free to do business in Uruguay. But the same goes for Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina, all countries where farmers can just still be farmers.”

Mulder has mainly been involved in cattle breeding. “I crossed Hereford cows, which are red-coloured beef cattle, with Aberdeen Angus, which are black-coloured beef cattle. In some years, we had up to 300 calves born in one year. In Uruguay, this is all done outside in the wild, without a vet. The cattle can do it all very well by themselves. Gestation was done by about 15 young bulls. One bull can cover about 30 cows per season. Those calves had a wonderful time with their mothers and grew like cabbages. The first six months we let them walk and drink with the mother cow. Taking calves away immediately as it happens in dairy cattle is heartless and unhealthy for both mother and calf.”

Besides Mulder, Mattijn Heijne also has a long history in Uruguay. His marketing studies at Hogeschool ‘s Hertogenbosch brought him to the South American continent; and it was his Dutch-Uruguayan wife that took him to Uruguay, where she inherited a family farm. Heijne represents a number of European companies in Latin America and teaches international cultural diversity management at the University of Montevideo.

“Opportunities for Dutch farmers are particularly for those who are able to be more productive on a square metre,” he says. “In the field of animal husbandry for the meat industry, the Dutch could probably learn a thing or two from the Uruguayans. And also in the production of soya and maize, for example, they are planting with the most modern techniques. But in all other areas of agriculture, a Dutchman can very likely gain an advantage over local farmers.”

The west of Uruguay is characterised by agriculture and that is because it is located on one of the three largest underground freshwater basins in the world. “It therefore has very fertile soil, which is extremely suitable for arable farming and growing products such as soya, maize, wheat and malt,” says Heijne. “In that region, the dairy industry is also the strongest.” In the central and eastern parts of the country, animal husbandry for the meat industry is the most important. Most of the livestock farming is focused on the meat industry with cows and sheep often combined on an estate. Sheep are often kept to clean up the grassland. “They eat the larger tussocks in the field, so the cows can better access the lower grass,” he says.

According to Heijne land often costs up to more than US$ 10,000 per hectare. In the eastern, less fertile parts of Uruguay, the price is around US $2,500 to US$ 3,500. Lands between the two areas cost around 5,000 and 7,000. Heijne stresses: “Foreigners here have exactly the same rights as Uruguayans and the government encourages skilled immigration.”

A third Dutchman in Uruguay is Jan Meekma. He is a farmer’s son, business administrator and is brooding on a plan to set up a cooperative for Dutch farmers in his new country of residence. He ended up with Uruguay after having discarded other Latin American countries. He refrained from Brazil because its language is Portuguese; he found Spanish easier to learn. Chile and Argentina deterred him because of the strict measures the governments of these countries had taken during the corona pandemic; “they were even stricter than in the Netherlands”. For Argentina, moreover, the country is politically and economically very unstable and Chile has taken an “extreme left-wing course”. Paraguay was also a serious option for Meekma, but it ended up being Uruguay. Important reasons for him were that the country is politically stable and self-sufficient in both food and energy production. “For farmers, Uruguay is a paradise. Because you have a very even climate. The animals can walk outside all year round. There is enough rainfall and enough sunshine, which you need to get quality grass.”

Meekma explored opportunities for Dutch cheesemakers in Uruguay, but that trail reached a dead end. “There is a brand new milk powder manufacturer here, Alimentos Fray Bentos, which is only running at 30 per cent of its capacity because of insufficient milk supply. There are just too few cows delivering milk here.”

Meekma is now brooding on a plan to establish a colony in Uruguay of Dutch farmers, following the example of cooperatives set up in Brazil by the Dutch in the last century, namely Frisia, Castrolanda and Capal. With a combined annual turnover of more than US$ 5.5 billion by 2022, they are among the most successful enterprises in Brazil. In Uruguay, cooperatives enjoy significant tax advantages. Other benefits Meekma mentions of this business model include the opportunity to develop a circular agri-culture and establish a Dutch community with schools and shops. “Also, as a cooperative one enjoys a strong position, both in markets and relative to public authorities.”

Photography by Mattijn Heijne

EREZ Corporate Services – Pioneers Licensed by the Dutch Central Bank

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EREZ Corporate Services – Pioneers Licensed by the Dutch Central Bank

EREZ Corporate Services – Your Gateway to Success in the Netherlands, 25 Years of Excellence: Pioneers Licensed by the Dutch Central Bank

EREZ Corporate Services stands as one of the pioneering entities licensed by the Dutch Central Bank under the Trust Offices Supervision Act (Wtt) in 2004. With an impressive 25 years of experience, we have evolved from a family business into a trusted name in the industry. For us, clients aren’t just clients; they’re family.

Your Company, Our Expertise

At EREZ, we redefine corporate services, offering a seamless one-stop-shop for all your business needs. Whether it’s management, domiciliation, accounting, or legal services, including complete administration and tax filing for our (international) customers, we act as your eyes, ears, and hands in the Netherlands. Our commitment is unwavering, bridging international legislative, tax-related, and cultural gaps on your behalf.

Expertise That Matters

Sustainable client relationships are the foundation of our success. Our international in-house team, alongside auditors, tax advisors, lawyers, and notary officers in our vast network, ensure that your business interests are served diligently. Expertise matters, and at EREZ, it’s a cornerstone of our service.

Internationally Close to You

From EMEA countries and Asia to North and South America, clients worldwide benefit from EREZ Corporate Services. Situated in Hilversum, near Amsterdam, and conveniently close to Schiphol International Airport, we make it our mission to be accessible. With professionals fluent in Dutch, French, English, German, Russian, and Hebrew, we’re always at your service, making sure you feel like we’re just around the corner.

Dedicated to Meeting Your Business Goals

Looking to establish or expand your business internationally? EREZ Corporate Service has the knowledge and experience to guide you. Benefit from the stability, EU membership, favorable tax rates, and treaties with over one hundred countries that the Netherlands offers. Share your corporate ambitions with us, and we’ll make it our personal business to help you achieve them.

Ready to elevate your business to new heights? Choose EREZ Corporate Services – where your success is our priority. Contact us today to embark on a journey of excellence and prosperity!

Harry Blik

Erez Corporate Service B.V.

Koninginneweg 31
1217 KR  Hilversum  
The Netherlands
+31 35 621 8282

info@erez.nl

www.erez.nl

Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang’s official visit to the Republic of Guinea

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Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang’s official visit to the Republic of Guinea

From 26-28 March 2024, the Deputy Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Mame Mandiaye Niang, conducted an official visit to the Republic of Guinea in the context of the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by Prosecutor Karim AA Khan KC and the President of the Republic, General Mamadi Doumbouya, on September 28, 2022 in Conakry. The memorandum commits both Guinea and the ICC Office of the Prosecutor to work actively and collaboratively to further the principle of complementarity and ensure accountability for alleged international crimes committed in Guinea in the context of the 28 September 2009 events at the national stadium in Conakry. Eleven accused have been charged in a domestic trial for alleged crimes committed during the events in which between 156 and 200 people were allegedly killed or disappeared, and at least 109 women were raped or subjected to other forms of sexual violence.

During his meeting with Prime Minister M. Amadou Oury Bah and Minister of Justice and Human Rights M. Yaya Kaïraba Kaba, Deputy Prosecutor Niang expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing trial and Guinea’s clear commitment to bring the alleged perpetrators to justice. “Guinea’s capacity and willingness to hold the perpetrators to account are palpable. Despite the existing challenges – not uncommon to most criminal proceedings in different countries, this commitment represents a strong example of complementarity in practice, with the trial being followed across the world.”

During their exchanges with Deputy Prosecutor Niang, Guinean authorities identified needs for support, including with respect to the investigation and prosecution of gender-based crimes, witnesses’ and victims’ protection and reparations. The Deputy Prosecutor committed to engage further with key actors and partners such as the United Nations Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, the ICC’s Victims and Witnesses Section and the ICC Trust Fund for Victims with a view to propose an action plan aimed at providing a targeted exchange of expertise and knowledge transfer for the benefit of judicial personnel involved in the ongoing trial and beyond. 

During the mission, the President of the Guinean Bar Association, M. Mohamed Souaré Diop, and his team provided to the OTP delegation the perspective of defense lawyers and victims’ representatives on the ongoing proceedings and trial, emphasizing that the trial is on good course despite recurring challenges. 

Deputy Prosecutor Niang also engaged with representatives of the diplomatic community, including the European Union and France, civil society and victims of the 28 September 2009 events.

“I greatly appreciated the close and humbling exchange with victims. It brought back into sharp focus the human cost of atrocity crimes. The victims’ physical and mental suffering continues to date. Bringing justice to these women and men, and enabling them to feel safe again are the minimum standards we should hold ourselves up to. The Office, jointly with its partners, will continue to support the national authorities in their endeavor to hold perpetrators accountable and provide meaningful assistance to victims,” Deputy Prosecutor Niang stated.

During his mission, Deputy Prosecutor Niang was accompanied by a delegation of the ICC Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) who provided expertise on victims’ reparations following the joint OTP/TFV technical mission of March 2023. Coll

Fantasy comes from Ghosts -Gaudi and other Catalan Architects

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Fantasy comes from Ghosts -Gaudi and other Catalan Architects


A live lecture by Dr. Jacqueline Cockburn

Join us for this captivating lecture given by Jacqueline Cockburn on ‘Fantasy comes from Ghosts – Gaudi and other Catalan architects’ in the Warenar Cultural Center (Kerkstraat 75, 2242 HE Wassenaar) on Tuesday 9th April 2024 at 20.00 hours, also streamed at home at 20.00 hrs.

Antoni Gaudí is well known and much loved.  In this lecture, his work will be explored in detail. It will be shown how he engaged with nature and worked with extraordinary ceramicists, iron workers, tilers, and decorative artists.  We will look at his public and private buildings and his relationship with a wealthy and demanding patron.  Private, shy and retiring, he was also humorous and witty in his extravagant style. 

However, it will also be the aim of this lecture to uncover some of the other architects working in Barcelona over the turn of the twentieth century; Domenech y Muntaner and Puig y Cadafalch.  Attention will be paid to several significant and ravishing buildings and some less well-known buildings in Barcelona.

This will be a live lecture with the lecturer physically present in the Warenar theatre.  We are hoping that members and guests will take the opportunity to come to the Warenar 

About the speaker: Dr Jacqueline Cockburn

Jacqueline is Managing Director of an art tours company, running residential courses in Andalucía, Southern Spain in the art and culture of the region www.artandculturetravel.com  Jacqueline is a course director and lecturer at the V&A and also lectures at The Royal Academy, The Art Fund, The London Art History Society and has toured New Zealand and Australia for The Arts Society.

Her specialist field is Spanish Art, but she also lectures on European Art 1790-1950. Her most recent publication is A Taste of Art, London (Unicorn Press 2019). Jacqueline films her lectures and is currently delivering lectures, study days and courses online and live.

The lecture is free of charge for members of the Arts Society. However, non-members are kindly requested to contribute a guest fee of EUR 15 in advance. Secure your spot today! The Warenar doors open at 19.15 hrs.

To register for this lecture, please visit our website at:

https://theartssociety.org/the-hague

Please ensure that you register before Monday, 8 April 2024. The lecture will commence at 20:00 on Tuesday, 9 April. For non-members, the guest fee for attending one lecture is €15. Membership fees for the entire season, which includes access to 8 lectures and other activities, are €75 for individuals and €140 for couples. Half-year memberships are also available at €37.50 for individuals and €70 for couples. Students are eligible for a half-price membership.

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