Openingstoespraak 62ste International Model European Parliament Conference The Hague 2025

Ambassador Ulf Melgaard,

Representative embassy Cyprus, Andreas Metaxas,

Chairman MEP Europe, Gottfried Oehl,

Members of the Model European Parliament,

Distinguished Guests,

Presidents Sarah Bouamlat and Marlein Nijhuis, thank you for your introduction.

A very warm welcome to you all here in the Peace Palace in The Hague, the monumental expression of our commitment to peace, and the foundation of more than a century of The Hague as the international city of peace and justice. This is the home of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Court of Justice of the United Nations.

Around this building, with its impressive architecture, ornaments, and decorative paintings, a vast network of global and European institutions, organizations, and companies has grown here in The Hague. All are dedicated to peace through international law and the prosecution of war crimes, regardless of who commits them. It is therefore with pride that I, as Mayor of The Hague, welcome you all here today, and of course in particular the nearly two hundred young people.

The pursuit of peace through mediation based on international law dates back to the late nineteenth century. Yet the twentieth century became the bloodiest in history. The agreements and arrangements made after the Second World War show that hope was not abandoned. Certainly, major conflicts have been fought in our part of the world since then, but not on the same scale.

Today, the world is changing rapidly. Geopolitical balances are shifting. Power politics is pushing aside international law. There is open warfare on Europe’s doorstep, but at the same time a shadow conflict of destabilization and disruption in cyberspace. We must find our place within this new reality. As Europe in the world, as The Netherlands within Europe, and as cities where we work from the ground up to promote peace, justice, and democracy.

Europe is taking steps toward a more assertive and cohesive unity. The Netherlands is working to strengthen its preparedness and resilience. Here in The Hague, locally, we are shaping our responsibilities in a way that fits our city. This is why The Hague is active within the EU,  engaging in dialogue with the European Parliament and the Commission, together with other European cities and partners.

We do this to contribute to policymaking, from the perspective of local governments close to their citizens – after all, more than half of Europe’s population now lives in cities. And, of course, we also do it to secure funding for local ambitions that align with European goals. Think, for example, of investments in sustainability, innovation, and a strong economy.

Perhaps with more urgency than ever, we are working together towards a stronger Europe. A Europe of nations and cities, of businesses and residents who want to live in peace and who want to be heard. This requires strong institutions that build connections and trust between the worlds of politics, diplomacy, and the people we serve. Throughout Europe, and therefore also here in The Hague. That presents an important and inspiring challenge for you, young people with an interest in public affairs.

I wish you every success.