Opening International Staff Conference van VNG International, 11 juni 2026

Dear all,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to The Hague, the city where VNG International began its international work 25 years ago. A quarter of a century ago, it was my predecessor, Wim Deetman, who stood at the helm as Mayor here. He strongly believed in international cooperation on a local level, and played a foundational role in the creation of the UCLG Peace Prize. His belief, that cities and local governments worldwide could learn from each other, is still one of the foundations on which our work is built.

Today, I am speaking from different perspectives. First, of course, as the Mayor of The Hague. Second, as a member of the Executive Presidency of United Cities and Local Governments – the society that represents seventy per cent of the world’s population. And finally, as president of the international delegation of the VNG, the Association of Netherlands Municipalities. These different roles provide me with a unique vantage point.

The theme of this International Staff Conference is ‘Shaping tomorrow: Evolving our work together’. This is a perfect match with VNG International’s evolution over the past decades. I myself have been involved with the international efforts of both the VNG and VNG International. In my roles within UCLG, I have got to know many of you. With my own eyes, I have witnessed how our projects make a difference all over the world; in Egypt, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, and countless other countries. Everywhere where local governments are getting stronger, the resilience of communities increases.

What may not always be visible is how directly your work impacts my own whenever I represent the VNG, The Hague, and UCLG International. The message I promote worldwide can only be conveyed with credibility thanks to the results you achieve every day. Wherever I speak, I draw on examples from the work of VNG International.

For instance, when I spoke at an international conference in China last year, I highlighted the early warning systems in Benin, where you support local governments in better preparing communities for the consequences of climate change. And in Ethiopia, I spoke with Dutch companies, including Heineken. Once again, I was told that good local government is key to investments and entrepreneurship.

And this dynamic is not a one-way street. Thanks to the international network and reputation you have built over the past 25 years, I can make new connections between Dutch and international partners during international visits. This means your work not only impacts the countries where you are active, but also strengthens the international position of our municipalities, our academic and research institutions, and the Dutch business community.

Today, you are guests in The Hague. A real administrative city, home to the Dutch government as well as an impressive network of international organizations. As the international city of peace and justice, we attract institutions that contribute to worldwide safety, justice, and stability. At the same time, The Hague is a compact city, where physical space is scarce. This forces us to think about integral solutions constantly, so government, academic and research institutions, businesses and residents can live and work together.

Tomorrow, during your city tour, you will experience how we approach the question of continuing to build a liveable, economically strong, and future-proof city where space is limited. You will see how area development, city marketing, expat strategy, and liveability come together to tell a single story: the story of a city that is constantly looking for both balance and progress. This is the shared pursuit you will recognize from your own projects, whether you are working on decentralisation, inclusive services, or local economic development.

VNG International is built on the same spirit of cooperation. For 25 years, you – our international co-workers, local colleagues and Associated Experts – have shaped our organisation. Your efforts, expertise, and commitment have made the difference. Thanks to you, VNG International is known worldwide as a reliable partner that empowers local governments and helps create sustainable change.

Because of this, this conference is not just a moment to reflect on our achievements, but also to decide on a course for the future. How can we remain relevant in a changing world? How can we make the most of our unique position as a municipal organisation? And how can we make sure we will continue to make an impact in the next 25 years?

I wish you an inspiring conference and a pleasant stay in The Hague. You are always welcome here.