Maja Christina Steenwijk-Groot is a prominent Dutch businesswoman celebrated for her exceptional networking skills and her ability to bring people together through innovative and memorable events. Her career, spanning decades, has been marked by a dedication to building connections between Dutch business professionals and the diplomatic corps, as well as advocating for meaningful social causes.
The Amstel Awards and Amstel Concerts
Ms. Steenwijk-Groot’s most notable contributions include founding the prestigious Amstel Awards and the Amstel Concerts, held at the iconic InterContinental Amstel Hotel in Amsterdam. These events were designed to unite Dutch business leaders with diplomats in an elegant and engaging setting. Although changing priorities among hotel management led to the conclusion of these events, their legacy lives on in the many fond memories and kind letters of gratitude from numerous ambassadors who attended.
Before the Amstel Awards and Concerts she launched the Spring and Autumn Concerts at Kijkduin Hotel. These gatherings continued her tradition of offering diplomats and business professionals opportunities to connect. “I have so many nice memories, photos, and very kind letters of gratitude from numerous ambassadors posted in the Netherlands,” she recalls.
DEN HAAG 28-09-2011DELTAPLEIN CONCERTBIJEENKOMST ATLANTIC HOTEL. FOTO JOS V LEEUWEN
Philosophy of Event Organization
For Ms. Steenwijk-Groot, events are more than just occasions; they are platforms for building relationships and creating opportunities. “It is easier for Dutch people to connect with an ambassador after an event like a concert,” she explains. Her goal has always been to facilitate connections that benefit not just individuals but also the countries they represent. “At least that is what I hope,” she adds.
Inaugurating Veenendaal’s white carnation garden.
Advocating for Veterans: The Witte Anjer Prijs
Maja Steenwijk established the tradition of inaugurating numerous white carnation gardens across the Netherlands to honor the nation’s veterans. A symbolic and powerful celebration often accompanies these unveilings, with veterans who served in Sarajevo, Mali, Kabul, and other missions in attendance. The tradition includes placing white carnations in the coats of those who dedicated their time to serving their country. Dutch citizens are also encouraged to plant white carnations in their own gardens as a tribute.
Ms. Steenwijk-Groot’s efforts to promote the opening of white carnation gardens involved garnering support from mayors across the Netherlands. “The goal was a white carnation bed in every city or village for the veterans,” she explains. To date, she has contributed to the creation of approximately 120 such gardens, including unveilings in Rotterdam, Bloemendaal, and Wassenaar. “The nomination was not that important to me,” she says of her recognition for the Witte Anjer Prijs. “It was all about honoring the veterans.”
Tennis tournament at the Canadian residence 2024.
Unique Diplomatic Experiences
Ms. Steenwijk-Groot’s extensive network and creative energy have allowed her to organize unique and unforgettable experiences for diplomats. From visits to a sauerkraut factory and the Heineken brewery to perfume workshops where participants could create their own scents. Her dedication extends to both ambassadors and their staff, exemplified by organizing a special diamond factory tour exclusively for secretaries.
“Since I have a huge network in all fields, I am always happy to bring people together,” she says. “Someone once told me, ‘You are a people pleaser,’ and I think that’s true.” Beyond these events, she has often been called upon to handle sensitive matters for members of the diplomatic corps, offering her assistance with the utmost discretion and empathy.
Parliamentary Agenda 2025
The 39th edition of Maja Steenwijk-Groot’s Parliamentary Agenda is a luxury Dutch-English publication that will be distributed to key figures, including all members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister, Ministers, Secretaries of State, the President and Members of the House of Representatives, the President and Members of the Dutch Senate, Secretaries-General and executives of the Ministries, King’s Commissioners, Mayors of provincial capitals and larger cities, Ambassadors of foreign embassies and consulates in the Netherlands, Councillors and Attorneys General of the Supreme Council of the Netherlands, members of the State Council, chairpersons and staff members of consultative bodies, as well as top business executives and leading industry figures.
The agenda will also highlight the NATO Summit 2025, which will take place in The Hague on June 24 and 25 at the World Forum. Marking 125 years of The Hague as the city of peace and justice, the summit aligns with NATO’s core mission to guarantee the freedom and security of its members through political and military means. With topics such as collective defense, the transatlantic link, and the 2022 Strategic Concept, the summit underscores NATO’s commitment to democratic values, crisis management, and cooperative security.
Looking Ahead
While Ms. Steenwijk-Groot currently has no specific events planned, she remains open to new opportunities. Whether sourcing gifts for a tennis tournament hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Canadian Embassy or organizing a memorable visit for foreign dignitaries, she continues to embrace challenges with enthusiasm.
One of her most rewarding experiences was organizing a visit to an Amsterdam factory that repurposes demolished materials for airport runways. The event’s success led to a repeat visit for Algeria’s Minister of Industry and his delegation. “This was a great success to organize,” she says.
A Legacy of Connection
From hosting concerts to advocating for veterans, Maja Steenwijk-Groot’s career reflects her ability to bring people together and create meaningful experiences. Her work showcases her creativity, compassion, and commitment to making a difference both locally and globally.
The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in the Hague, in collaboration with the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, hosted the first Indonesia Medical Wellness Tourism Promotion (IMWTP), in Amsterdam, 26 October 2024, marking a significant step forward in Indonesia-Netherlands relations through the innovative sector of medical wellness tourism.
Ambassador Mayerfas in his opening remarks highlighted Indonesia’s strong points in wellness tourism. “Indonesia, with its rich biodiversity, cutting-edge healthcare facilities, and deep-rooted traditional healing practices, is emerging as a global hub for medical wellness tourism. Indonesia offers not only high-quality medical services but also unique experiences that blend modern healthcare with traditional therapies, set in the middle of the beauty of our natural landscapes.”
The Director of Health Services Governance of the Ministry of Health, Sunarto, further emphasized the opportunities for international partnerships and the role of wellness tourism in promoting Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage alongside advanced healthcare solutions.
The representative from the Ministry of Tourism, Arya Galih Anindita, underscored the Indonesian government’s commitment to fostering the medical wellness tourism sector as a key component of its economic and tourism strategy.
Dutch Health Architect, showcasing the design of Aspen Medical Hospital in Depok, West Java, drew attention to the potential for Indonesia-Netherlands partnerships in developing world-class facilities that align with the international standards. On top of this, senior managers from AON, one of leading international insurance companies in Europe, spotlighted the avenues for collaboration in insurance coverage for medical tourism. They expounded the benefits of comprehensive health and wellness packages that provide peace of mind and convenience for international tourists.
The event, which saw active participation from both Indonesian and Dutch stakeholders, aimed at introducing Indonesia’s holistic wellness and medical services to the Dutch market through business-to-business matching session, products exhibition, and various workshops. Key Indonesian participants include the Bali Medical Tourism Association (BMTA), Prima Medika Hospital, Bali Royal Hospital, RSU Bhakti Rahayu, Sada Jiwa Clinic, Unicare Medical Clinic, and the Sanur Special Economic Zone (SEZ). They represented diverse and unique potentials in Indonesia’s rapidly growing health and wellness sector.
Garuda Indonesia Amsterdam and several wellness related stakeholders, such as Kutus Kutus Property International (KKPI), Djamu Djamu, Blora Mustika BV, and Good Jamu, also participated in the two-days exhibition and workshop programs.
With its emphasis on healthy living and innovation, the Netherlands is an ideal partner for Indonesia in advancing this sector. As Indonesia’s wellness and medical tourism sector continues to expand, this event highlights the country’s readiness to welcome Dutch tourists seeking rejuvenation and holistic health treatments in Indonesia’s beautiful and serene settings.
Arusha, The Hague, 10 December 2024 – The President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (Mechanism), Judge Graciela Gatti Santana, today presented the Mechanism’s twenty-fifth progress report to the United Nations Security Council (Council) in New York.
President Gatti Santana began her address by expressing profound gratitude for the support the Mechanism has received from the Council, particularly during the biennial review process that led to the renewal of the Mechanism’s mandate in June 2024.
The President informed the Council that, since her last address, the Mechanism has advanced with a clear focus. She stated that, while the Mechanism continues to have substantial work in connection with its residual mandated functions, which are unprecedented in scope, “we are delivering justice in line with our statutory obligations, are doing so efficiently, and with a completion mindset”.
By way of illustration, President Gatti Santana referred to a number of judicial activities, including the recent review hearing in the Gérard Ntakirutimana case. There, the Appeals Chamber heard all the relevant evidence and closing submissions from the parties over two working days and pronounced its judgement at the end of the same week, with Mr. Ntakirutimana’s convictions remaining unaltered. The President emphasised that this process was key to the justice cycle and ensured no miscarriage of justice had occurred, but also exemplified the institution’s dedication to completing any in-court proceedings quickly and cost-effectively.
With respect to the Mechanism’s other residual functions, including for example supervising the enforcement of sentences and providing assistance to national jurisdictions, President Gatti Santana highlighted that they continue to require time, attention, and resources. She explained that the Mechanism is, moreover, best placed to execute them in the near term, given its institutional knowledge and the need to identify viable and just solutions for transfer or completion.
The President underscored, however, that the Mechanism will require ongoing cooperation from States to address critical, unresolved challenges. These include finding a durable solution for the six acquitted or released persons in Niger, who continue to live in limbo and without the rights they were promised when they agreed to relocate there. A second challenge relates to the return of convicted persons from enforcement States to the United Nations Detention Unit in The Hague, which has resulted in the effective conversion of the Unit into a prison facility. Another issue requiring cooperation is the Jojić and Radeta case, pending for nearly a decade due to Serbia’s lack of cooperation in arresting and transferring the accused.
Turning to the Mechanism’s future planning efforts, President Gatti Santana emphasised that the Mechanism has paid very close attention to resolution 2740 (2024) and stands ready to provide any information and support required in relation to the reports that the Council has requested the Secretary-General to prepare. In the meantime, the Mechanism continues to streamline and reduce its operational requirements to more fully realise the Council’s vision of a small, temporary, and efficient institution. This is exemplified by its reductions in staffing and budgetary resources and the closure of both the Kigali Field Office and External Relations Office.
In closing, President Gatti Santana reiterated that the Mechanism exists to complete the cycle of justice initiated by the Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda and remains resolute in its commitment to this cause. She assured the Council that: “We are prepared to conclude this work and to fulfil your promise to Rwanda and the States of the former Yugoslavia – in resolution after resolution – that justice will be done.”
The Hague,16 December 2024: The Conference of States Parties to the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) met in diplomatic format at the Peace Palace in The Hague, the Netherlands, today to approve important amendments to ICMP’s founding Treaty that will further enhance the organization’s capacity to implement its global mandate. The occasion also commemorated the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty.
In December 2014, the Agreement on the Status and Functions of the International Commission on Missing Persons was signed by Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The Agreement established ICMP as an intergovernmental organization with its seat in The Hague. The ICMP Agreement includes a clause for its review at the initiative of the original Signatory States. Ten countries participated in the review process, and the amendments reflect practical lessons learned in the decade since the Treaty was signed.
One of the amendments agreed will clarify the criteria and process for States to become parties to the Agreement. States wishing to become parties to the ICMP Agreement are expected to have demonstrated commitment to addressing the issue of missing persons as a state responsibility. Another agreed change will facilitate the organization’s capacities to pursue multilateral initiatives among states, including a standing capacity to respond to the growing number of missing persons around the world.
The number of conflicts around the world – the highest number since 1946 – coupled with the consequences of global warming and an increase in migration has contributed to record numbers of missing persons. An effective standing capacity can respond to this in a manner that is in line with the rule of law and ensures that the rights of all families are secured, regardless of their national, religious or ethnic background, gender, economic situation, or political beliefs, or the circumstances of their disappearance or any other factor.
Today’s conference, which was hosted by the Foreign Ministry of the Netherlands, was organized with support from the governments of Germany, the Netherlands and Kosovo.
Constitutions are foundational documents that shape the political and legal structure of a nation. In democratic systems, they are intended to establish a clear separation of powers, protect individual rights, and ensure that governance is responsive to the needs of the people.
However, leaders in countries like Venezuela, Russia, and Turkey have exploited constitutional amendments to centralize power, eroding democratic institutions. Indonesia faces similar risks with proposals like presidential term extensions and reintroducing state policy guidelines (PPHN), raising concerns over potential abuses of power. This article examines these issues through global comparisons and suggests reforms to safeguard democracy.
Hence, the following lines are examining how the mechanism of constitutional amendments can be misused to consolidate power and undermine democratic norms, a phenomenon known as abusive constitutionalism. By analyzing cases from Turkey, Russia, Venezuela, and China, it explores how leaders manipulate legal frameworks to entrench authority and foster a cult of personality. The paper highlights preventative measures such as eternity clauses, the basic structure doctrine, and civil society engagement as safeguards to protect democracy. It also considers how Indonesia can strengthen its constitutional framework to prevent authoritarianism.
Using conceptual legal research and a comparative approach, this study aims to answer three key questions: (1) What drives the proposed constitutional amendments in Indonesia? (2) How do these proposals align with principles of constitutionalism and democracy? (3) What safeguards can prevent abusive constitutional practices in Indonesia? It seeks to address the research questions by evaluating how constitutional amendments have led to abusive constitutionalism, focusing on Indonesia’s current proposals. Cases from countries such as India, Colombia, and Venezuela provide insights into how term limit extensions, power shifts, and personalization undermine democratic principles. The study emphasizes the role of civil society in maintaining accountability.
II. Constitution, Legal Order and Political Power
2.1 Comparative Framework: Abusive Constitutionalism in a Global Context
Abusive constitutionalism, as defined by David Landau, refers to the manipulation of constitutional mechanisms to undermine democracy under the guise of legal reform. This global phenomenon has been observed in countries like Hungary, Venezuela, Turkey, China, Colombia, and Indonesia. Tactics include extending presidential terms, weakening checks and balances, co-opting judicial institutions, and consolidating power under the rhetoric of stability or national progress.
In Colombia, the 1991 constitution limited the president to a single term to prevent the rise of authoritarian leaders, seeking to entrench power. However, President Álvaro Uribe Vélez sought to amend the constitution to allow re-election, raising concerns about democratic backsliding. Similarly, in Venezuela, constitutional reforms extended the presidential term from one four-year term to two six-year terms, enabling Hugo Chávez to consolidate power. Like Colombia’s example, these amendments were framed as necessary for national progress, but they ultimately allowed for the rise of authoritarian rule.
In Hungary, the ruling party employed both amendments and replacements to the constitution to consolidate power. This included adding more constitutional court judges, restructuring key state commissions, and making it more difficult to amend the constitution in ways that could challenge the ruling party’s dominance. These measures illustrate how constitutional reforms can be used as tools for entrenching power, rather than reforming governance. Similar trends are observable in Indonesia, where proposed constitutional amendments, such as reintroducing the National Guidelines (PPHN), may serve to further centralize authority in the hands of the president.
Rosalind Dixon and David Landau’s concept of Abusive Constitutional Borrowing highlights how democratic frameworks are repurposed for authoritarian control, often by weakening institutions like constitutional courts or anti-corruption bodies. Research shows that while leaders frequently attempt to evade term limits through constitutional changes, public resistance, rather than judicial intervention, is often the key deterrent.
The global patterns suggest that Indonesia’s proposed amendments may not aim to improve governance but rather consolidate power, exemplifying Landau’s concept of abusive constitutionalism.
2.2 SEA as a Case Study: Current Constitutional Proposals
This section examines the largest country of Southeastern Asia, that or RI’s proposed constitutional amendments, specifically the reintroduction of the National Guidelines (PPHN) and the extension of the presidential term, highlighting their potential to reshape the country’s political landscape. While these proposals are framed as governance and stability enhancements, they raise concerns about democratic principles and the risk of power consolidation. While Article 37 provides a structured framework for constitutional amendments, it centralizes power within the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), raising concerns about potential abuse. The MPR could prioritize the interests of the ruling party, potentially undermining democratic accountability.
Key concerns include:
Reintroduction of the PPHN: This could centralize policy control under the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), weakening the independence of other state institutions.
Presidential Term Extension: Extending the presidency to three terms risks eroding safeguards against power personalization and weakening democratic consolidation.
Though Article 37 legitimizes the amendment process, it also reveals vulnerabilities where mechanisms intended to enable constitutional change can be exploited for undemocratic purposes. This aligns with global trends in abusive constitutionalism, where amendment processes are used to entrench power rather than strengthen democracy. The subsequent analysis will assess whether these proposals represent genuine reforms or potential abuses.
2.3 The Role of the Cult of Personality in Consolidating Power
The cult of personality is a political strategy where leaders create a heroic and idealized image to centralize authority, often undermining institutional governance. Personalization of power centralizes decision-making, undermining institutional integrity and democratic norms. While it may offer short-term stability, it often results in volatile governance. A comparative analysis of China, Russia, and Turkey illustrates how personalization of power influences governance and constitutional changes.
In China,Xi Jinping has constructed a cult of personality through state propaganda, portraying himself as indispensable to China’s future. The removal of presidential term limits in 2018 marked a significant step toward consolidating indefinite rule, shifting governance from a collective leadership model to a centralized and personalized system. This strengthens Xi’s authority but risks long-term instability.
Similarly, Vladimir Putin has cultivated a strongman image tied to Russia’s global resurgence. Constitutional changes in 2020 reset term limits, allowing him to stay in power until 2036. Unlike China, Russia maintains a façade of democratic institutions, which are systematically weakened to ensure control.
In Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has used populist rhetoric to reshape governance. The 2017 constitutional referendum transitioned Turkey from a parliamentary to a Semi-Presidential system (of the French type), granting Erdoğan extensive executive powers while eroding judicial and legislative independence. His leadership demonstrates how personalization can align institutional frameworks with individual authority.
All three leaders use propaganda, legalistic and legal mechanism of constitutional amendments, and weakened institutional checks to consolidate power. However, their methods differ: China relies on institutional propaganda, Russia undermines democratic processes while maintaining a democratic façade, and Turkey invokes populist narratives.
While Indonesia faces some risk of developing a cult of personality under a charismatic leader like President Prabowo Subianto, its democratic safeguards act as barriers. The multi-party system, decentralized governance, and two-term presidential limit reduce the risk of power concentration. Additionally, Indonesia’s historical experience with Suharto’s authoritarian regime has fostered societal resistance to personalization of power. However, threats like media control, weakened institutions, or populist appeals remain, making vigilance and reform essential for preserving democracy.
2.4 Abusive Constitutionalism: Detection and Prevention
The personalization of power, as observed in China, Russia, and Turkey, often manifests through constitutional amendments that consolidate authority. To counteract such trends, it is essential to explore mechanisms that protect constitutional integrity and democratic principles from being abused—a concern that resonates with Indonesia’s ongoing constitutional debates.
Abusive constitutionalism, where leaders manipulate constitutional amendments to entrench their power, poses a significant threat to democratic integrity. Lessons from India, Colombia, and Venezuela highlight strategies to prevent such practices, focusing on eternity clauses, the basic structure doctrine, and civil society involvement. These mechanisms aim to protect the constitution’s fundamental principles from being jeopardized by constitutional amendments.
Eternity Clauses
Certain core democratic principles, like executive power limitations, should be enshrined as unalterable. For example, Colombia used eternity clauses to block amendments extending presidential terms, with civil society and courts preserving institutional integrity. Likewise, Indonesia’s constitution already includes immutable clauses (e.g., protecting the unitary state), but clauses related to term limits and the balance of powers should also be safeguarded.
Basic Structure Doctrine
This doctrine, pioneered in India, ensures that fundamental constitutional principles cannot be amended. In Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973), India’s Supreme Court ruled that constitutional amendments cannot alter the constitution’s core framework. Indonesia’s judiciary could adopt similar judicial review mechanisms to block amendments concentrating power in the presidency or weakening checks and balances.
Civil Society
Active civil society is crucial for resisting constitutional abuses. Public pressure and grassroots activism can expose and challenge manipulative amendments. For example, Venezuela’s failure to maintain an independent judiciary or robust civil society allowed repeated amendments that eroded democracy under Hugo Chávez. In contrast, Colombia and India demonstrate how civil society and judicial action can resist overreach.
Indonesia’s vibrant civil society and constitutional safeguards have so far resisted elite-driven amendments, such as proposals for term extensions or system changes justified as necessary for stability. However, increasing media control and elite-driven reforms in Indonesia make public engagement and judicial oversight ever more crucial to prevent potential abuses of democratic principles.
Summary and outlook
This analysis highlights the risks posed by selected countries’ proposed constitutional amendments, which aim to strengthen the executive branch through measures like extending presidential terms and reintroducing the PPHN of largest country in SEA. These changes mirror trends in Russia, Turkey, and China, where centralizing power fosters a cult of personality, erodes institutional independence, and undermines democratic principles.
The amendments could diminish democratic accountability, weaken institutional safeguards, and pave the way for authoritarian rule by concentrating power among political elites. To counteract such risks, these countries must strengthen checks and balances, adopt mechanisms like eternity clauses and the basic structure doctrine, and ensure robust civil society engagement in constitutional processes.
A political culture emphasizing pluralism, transparency, and institutional independence is imperative to preserving democratic values and preventing the personalization of power. The analysis concludes that while constitutional reforms may be justified as necessary for progress, history shows their potential to consolidate power and erode democracy, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures against authoritarianism.
Authors:
Prof. Dr. Djawed Sangdel
Prof. Dr. Djawed Sangdel, Managing Rector of the Swiss UFEM University, Geneva. The State MP of the Swiss Confederation’s Genevé Grand Conseil.
Damla Mesulam
Damla Mesulam of Leiden University, The Hague, specialized in International Relations and Organizations. Her research spans EU-Turkey relations, sustainability, and social justice activism. Currently, she is research fellow of the International Institute IFIMES in Hague, Netherlands.
German and Bulgarian authorities have rolled up a criminal group that was involved in the large-scale theft of power cables across Germany. The disappearance of the cables caused major disruptions to large public construction sites. During a joint operation coordinated by Eurojust and Europol, eight suspects were arrested.
The criminal group consisting mostly of Bulgarian nationals, set up a large-scale operation to steal power cables in three states in Germany, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Hesse and Saarland. After stealing the power cables, the group sold them for substantial profits. Afterwards, the proceeds were then transferred to Bulgaria.
Through investigations, the authorities were able to link 45 individual cases of power cable theft to the criminal group. The total value of the stolen cables is around 1 million euros.
After German authorities discovered that the criminal group behind the theft was partly residing in Bulgaria and was moving their profits to Bulgaria, cooperation between the authorities was set up at Eurojust. The authorities worked together to plan the joint operation to arrest the suspects and stop the thefts. Europol supported the action day by deploying an expert with a mobile office to Bulgaria. Leading up to this, Europol organised an operational meeting, provided operational analysis and supported the cross-border surveillance with a virtual command post.
In the early hours of 17 December, authorities in Bulgaria and Germany took action with nearly 200 officers, investigators and prosecutors deployed. The operation was coordinated from Eurojust’s headquarters in The Hague. Twenty-four house searches, nine personal searches and six car searches took place in Bulgaria. During the searches, authorities were able to seize items such as telephones and document that will now be used to continue investigations into the group. Eight suspects were arrested, five in Bulgaria and three in Germany.
The following authorities were involved in the actions:
Germany: Public Prosecution Office Heilbronn; Heilbronn Police
Bulgaria: Public Prosecution Offices Varna and Shumen; Investigative Department to the Sofia City PO and the Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Home Affairs-Varna
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Mr. Karim A.A. Khan KC, is pleased to invite a second round of comments on a new policy initiative by the Office of the Prosecutor to advance accountability for environmental crimes under the Rome Statute.
The initiative will culminate in a new comprehensive policy paper that aims to guide the Office in ensuring a systematic approach to dealing with environmental crimes from the outset of the preliminary examination process to investigations and prosecutions.
The new policy will seek to further promote accountability, transparency, and predictability in the work of the Office in this crucial area. Developed on the basis of the Rome Statute, other regulatory instruments of the Court, applicable treaties, and the principles and rules of international law, the policy will also draw on the jurisprudence of the Court and other relevant jurisdictions in seeking to clarify the existing framework within which the Office may take action in this area. Emphasis will also be placed on how the Office can engage with and support national authorities to ensure a collective, effective approach to environmental crimes within the framework of the Rome Statute.
The initiative was launched in February 2024 and has already benefited from an initial round of more than 80 submissions received prior to the drafting process. This new round of consultations aims to solicit more specific and focused feedback on the text of the draft policy itself.
In highlighting the potential importance of the environmental crimes policy and the central role of stakeholder consultation in its development, Prosecutor Khan stated: “The natural environment forms the bedrock for human life. Our investigations in various regions of the world reveal a pattern: serious international crimes are often driven by or result in significant environmental damage, such as the poisoning of wells and water supplies in Darfur. This is why my Office is developing a policy on how it can harness the treaty that created the Court, the Rome Statute, to address such crimes and to support national authorities in doing the same. We need your input to shape this policy.”
Professor Kevin Jon Heller, Special Adviser to the Prosecutor on War Crimes, will be assisting the Prosecutor and the Office in developing the policy.
On 17 December 2024, the Defence and the Prosecution discontinued their appeals against the guilty verdict in the case The Prosecutor v. Al Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz Ag Mohamed Ag Mahmoud before the International Criminal Court (ICC). The parties will not appeal the sentence. The verdict and the sentence in this case are now final and the case will proceed to the reparations stage.
Next steps: On 10 December 2024, Trial Chamber X issued an Order for Submissions on Reparations, giving instructions and deadlines to the Prosecution, the Legal representatives of victims, the Defence, the Registry, the Trust Fund for Victims and the Republic of Mali for various submissions on reparations to victims. The Chamber will then render its decision on reparations in the case in due course.
Mr Al Hassan will remain in the ICC detention centre until the ICC designates a country to serve his sentence.
Today, the Appeals Chamber, by majority, Judge Gocha Lordkipanidze and Judge Erdenebalsuren Damdin dissenting, invited the legal representatives of the participating victims to file any observations on the notices of discontinuance of appeals by 30 December 2024.
The 5th of December is a significant occasion in Thailand, celebrated as both the National Day and the birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great. This day also serves as “Father’s Day” in the country.
On December 5, 2024, Thailand proudly hosted a series of celebrations to honor these important events. To commemorate this day, His Excellency Mr. Asi Mamanee, the Ambassador of Thailand in the Netherlands, successfully organized a National Day reception in The Hague. Prior to addressing his esteemed guests, Ambassador Mamanee respectfully paid homage to His Majesty the King of Thailand.
H.E. Mr. Asi Mamanee, Ambassador of Thailand welcome the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, H.E. Mr. Kairat Abdrakhmanov.
Below is the complete address delivered by H.E. Ambassador Asi Mamanee.
“For the people of Thailand, the 5th of December is an important day as it represents many auspicious occasions. It is the National Day of Thailand, and Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great. With over 70 years of the late King’s devotion to the development of our country, the day also marks as “the Father’s Day” in Thailand.
As we gather to celebrate Thailand’s National day here today, the year 2024 is also a special year which marks a few other causes for celebration.
Ambassador of Thailand, welcome the Ambassador of Iran, H.E. Mr Dr Hadi Farajvand.
First, this year, the people of Thailand celebrate the 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Throughout this year, the Royal Thai Government, including the Thai Embassies around the world, organized series of events to commemorate the 72nd birthday anniversary of His Majesty the King of Thailand.
The year 2024 also marks 420th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the Netherlands, which commenced in 1604, when the Dutch VOC or the Dutch East India Company began its trade with Ayutthaya, capital of Siam which is present day Thailand. The VOC sent the Dutch envoys to the royal court of Ayutthaya to have an audience with the Siamese king. This historic encounter was deemed an official establishment of the ties between Thailand and the Netherlands. It is the longest formal diplomatic friendship Thailand has with any country in the world.
On this important milestone, the Royal Thai Embassy organized a number of activities throughout the year to celebrate this special occasion. To name just a few example, the 15th Thailand Grand Festival, our flagship event to showcase a variety of Thai soft power through Thai cuisine and culture was organized at the Lange Voorhout, in the past summer. The event was well attended by over twenty thousand people on a one day festivity.
National day kingdom of Thailand .
On the historical side, the Thai Embassy commissioned an academic research on the first Siamese diplomatic mission to the Netherlands in 1608. You can learn more about this adventurous journey of the Siamese delegation, which was graciously received by Prince Maurits, the Stadholder, from the QR code on the souvenir postcards you will receive upon your departure.
At the end of this month, a year-long major renovation of our chancery building at the beautiful Archipelbuurt will be completed, and will resume its function. The refurbishment has preserved the original aesthetics of this monumental building while enhancing its functionality. It is a testament of Thailand’s cherishment and heartfelt investment towards this over 4 centuries of Thai-Dutch relations.
For more than 4 centuries, Thailand and the Netherlands have maintained strong and cordial bonds. We share the same values, particularly in our aspiration to promote sustainable development. We boast vibrant and open societies. Both countries are leading food exporters, and are hybrid nations firmly situated in the mainland with maritime linkage, which contributes to the strength we maintain in regional connectivity.
National day kingdom of Thailand 2024.
At a bilateral level, water management cooperation between Thailand and the Netherlands remains robust as ever as both face common challenges of sea-level rises. We strive to effectively implement Thailand-the Netherlands MoU on the cooperation in the field of integrated water resources management and climate change adaptation which was signed in 2021. We jointly organized many activities this year including the seminar on “Water Diplomacy” and the co-signing of the Letter of Intent (LOI) for research and development of innovations in sustainable water resource management between Chulalongkorn University of Thailand, and Deltares Institute.
On an economic front, the Netherlands is the biggest EU source of foreign direct investment in Thailand, and has recently become no. 4 globally, with investment in areas ranging from agriculture to petrochemicals. The Netherlands is also the largest EU destination for Thai Direct Investment (TDI) overseas and no. 3 globally.
Our people-to-people ties are vibrant and strong. Over 200,000 Dutch tourists visited Thailand last year. On the other hand, there are more than 20,000 Thais living here in the Netherlands, making it one of the largest Thai community in Europe.
I am also pleased to note that Thailand and the Netherlands play progressive role in multilateral cooperation. Thailand is pleased that the ASEAN-Netherlands Development Partnership is gaining strong momentum. Thailand looks forward to joining the Netherlands in being the Members of the United Nations Human Rights Council next year to advance the cause of human rights. We will also work closely together in many areas of our mutual interest, including advancing sustainable development cooperation.
We have varieties of Thai food for you to try during the reception today, including our famous Tom Yum Koong or Thai Hot and Sour Shrimp Soup. We are proud to share with you that Tom Yum Goong will be inscribed on the UNESCO list of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ during the nineteenth session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage which will take place later today in Asunción, Republic of Paraguay. So I hope you would enjoy it.
May I now kindly invite you to join me in a toast to the good health and happiness of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand and His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.”
More than 250 attendees participated in the celebration, including notable figures from the Netherlands, such as H.E. Mrs. Dominique Kurhling, Director of the Department of Asia and Oceania.The event also attracted key friends of Thailand, with members of the Diplomatic Corps, leaders from the private sector, academia, the media, and the Thai community all in attendance.
En 2017, le Sénégal a offert l’œuvre emblématique Paix par la Justice de Khalidou Kassé à la Cour pénale internationale (CPI) à La Haye. Ce tableau magistral a subi quelques égratignures au fil des années. Diplomat Magazine a rencontré l’artiste alors qu’il restaurait son œuvre avant son retour au Sénégal. Lors de cette visite, Son Excellence Mme Ramatoulaye Ba Epse Faye, Ambassadrice de la République du Sénégal aux Pays-Bas, nous a également honorés de sa présence.
Diplomat Magazine (DM) – La restauration de cette œuvre ici, à La Haye, souligne son importance. Quels sentiments ou réflexions cela vous inspire-t-il de travailler à nouveau sur cette pièce emblématique dans le contexte de la Cour pénale internationale ? Est-ce différent de l’époque où vous l’aviez créée au Sénégal ?
Khalidou Kassé – Oui, il faut dire que c’est différent. C’est différent parce que j’ai eu un recul, de 2017 à aujourd’hui, pour réexaminer l’œuvre. En la revoyant, je l’ai réétudiée, et j’ai réalisé que, dans ce tableau, j’avais atteint ce que je cherchais. Une œuvre d’art, dit-on, n’est jamais vraiment achevée, car chaque fois que l’artiste la contemple, il ressent l’envie d’y ajouter quelque chose.
Mais en revoyant ce tableau, j’ai constaté qu’il était complet. En 2017, je ne pensais pas revenir pour le restaurer. Pourtant, chaque détail, chaque coup de pinceau m’a rappelé le processus créatif qui m’a conduit à l’offrir à la CPI.
L’artiste Sénégalais Khalidou Kassé et Mme Ramatoulaye Ba Epse Faye, Ambassadrice du Sénégal aux Pays-Bas.
DM – C’est comme retrouver un enfant qui a grandi.
Kassé – Absolument, un enfant qui a grandi tout en conservant ses qualités et sa finesse. Cette restauration m’a aussi permis de raviver le message que j’avais voulu transmettre à travers cette œuvre. Paix par la Justice est une grande œuvre, et je suis profondément honoré qu’elle soit ici, à la Cour pénale internationale.
Je tiens à exprimer ma gratitude à Son Excellence Mme l’Ambassadrice Ramatoulaye Ba Epse Faye, qui n’a ménagé aucun effort pour faciliter ma venue. Elle a coordonné les échanges entre le ministère sénégalais de la Culture et celui des Affaires étrangères, permettant ainsi la restauration de cette œuvre.
En ce qui concerne le tableau, il véhicule un message clair : la paix par la justice. L’œuvre porte un message de paix, d’amour et d’espoir. La véritable mission de l’art est de tisser des liens et de résoudre les conflits.
DM – Pouvez-vous nous parler des éléments symboliques présents dans l’œuvre ?
Kassé – Bien sûr. Cette œuvre s’inspire notamment de la Charte de Kurukan Fuga, considérée comme l’une des premières constitutions au monde. À travers ce tableau, j’ai voulu rappeler que les droits de l’homme transcendent les différences.
On y voit deux mains tendues – une noire et une blanche – symbolisant l’unité nécessaire pour sauver l’humanité, un monde en plein tumulte. Les couleurs vives évoquent les migrations, sans distinction de race ni d’origine.
Le tableau est également illuminé par un soleil, symbole d’espoir, qui éclaire notre chemin collectif à travers trois lumières : celle du cœur, de l’esprit et de l’action. Enfin, la colombe de la paix écrit, de sa plume, sur les pages de la conscience collective un message universel.
Osvaldo Zavala Giler, Greffier de la CPI offre un exemplaire du statut de Rome a Khalidou Kassé en guise de remerciement.
DM – Votre carrière de militant et vos collaborations avec des organisations internationales témoignent de votre passion pour des causes mondiales. Comment ces expériences ont-elles façonné votre vision de l’art comme outil de changement et de dialogue global ?
Kassé – L’art est pour moi un outil puissant pour défendre les causes sociales. Mon engagement remonte à ma jeunesse, où j’ai été confronté à des injustices dans ma propre famille. Depuis, j’ai œuvré pour les enfants démunis et les jeunes, que ce soit aux États-Unis, au Sénégal ou ailleurs.
J’ai également collaboré avec des figures telles que la Princesse Lalla Meryem au Maroc et des institutions qui utilisent l’art pour sensibiliser et mobiliser. Aujourd’hui, je continue de croire que l’art a le pouvoir de transformer les cœurs et les esprits.
DM – Votre Excellence, comment percevez-vous le rôle de l’art contemporain dans la promotion de la paix et de la justice à l’échelle mondiale ?
Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine, Ambassadeur Ramatoulaye Ba Epse Faye, Khalidou Kassé, Henry Pierre Sarr, Premier Secrétaire a l’ambassade du Sénégal.
Ambassadrice Ramatoulaye Ba Epse Faye – L’art contemporain est un langage universel. Il accompagne les peuples dans leur quête de paix et de sérénité. À travers cette œuvre, Khalidou Kassé illustre parfaitement ce rôle, en rappelant que la justice et la paix sont essentielles dans les relations internationales.
Lorsque nous avons été informés, par Osvaldo Zavala Giler, Greffier de la CPI, des besoins de restauration, l’ambassade du Sénégal a immédiatement pris les dispositions nécessaires. Je tiens à remercier le ministère de la Culture et le ministère des Affaires étrangères du Sénégal, qui ont facilité le déplacement de M. Kassé pour qu’il puisse accomplir ce travail.
Ce tableau est un symbole fort, admiré par mes collègues ambassadeurs et tous les diplomates qui fréquentent les locaux de la CPI. Il incarne des valeurs fondamentales : la paix, la justice, la solidarité et le vivre-ensemble.
DM – Un dernier mot pour conclure cette entrevue ?
Kassé – Je tiens à remercier Son Excellence Mme l’Ambassadrice pour son soutien indéfectible et l’équipe de l’ambassade pour leur accueil chaleureux. Restaurer Paix par la Justice a été un honneur et une occasion de raviver son message universel. Merci à tous ceux qui ont rendu cela possible.
