The Hague, 24 November 2025
Subject: Strengthen The Hague’s role in the international policy of the Netherlands
Dear Informateur, dear Mr Buma,
You have the important responsibility of working with the parliamentary group leaders to form a new cabinet that will ensure stable and effective governance in the Netherlands. On behalf of the Economic Board The Hague (EBTH), we make an urgent and constructive appeal to allocate structural attention and resources in the new coalition agreement to reinforce the international position of the city of The Hague.
If the Netherlands wishes to play a more active and influential role on the world stage, then strategic support for The Hague – the city of international organisations, knowledge and diplomacy – is a critical success factor. The Hague’s position is of global importance to the Netherlands: as a centre for peace, justice and security, the city forms an indispensable pillar of our international reputation and influence.
The interconnection between security, the economy and urban development
Many party manifestos recognise that security, the economy, mobility, housing and space for businesses are closely intertwined. A safe, accessible and economically strong city provides the foundation for an attractive business climate. International companies and knowledge institutions contribute to innovation, exports and employment, further strengthening urban development and liveability.
This interplay is visible nowhere as clearly as in The Hague.
Develop the International Zone into the driving force behind the Netherlands’ international position
The International Zone, located between the city centre and Scheveningen, is the heart of The Hague as the international city of peace and justice. It brings together institutions in the fields of peace, justice, diplomacy, security, knowledge and innovation. This unique concentration deserves structural investment and clear recognition as “the International Zone of the Netherlands”.
We therefore ask that the new coalition agreement includes:
Structural funding, space and policy to support (new) international organisations in The Hague as the international city of peace and justice. This should include a joint investment programme with long-term resources and national coordination, in cooperation with the Municipality of The Hague.
Further development of the International Zone, together with the Central Government Real Estate Agency (RVB) and the Municipality of The Hague, into a compact, secure and representative area with modern facilities and excellent accessibility, serving as a national anchor point for diplomacy, top-level conferences and international cooperation.
A central focus on the connection between peace, justice, security, innovation and economic growth in the international policy of the Netherlands.
With these steps, The Hague will not only be a host city, but a strategic component of the Netherlands’ international policy. The Hague stands ready to fulfil this role – for the Netherlands and for the world.
The Economic Board The Hague would be pleased to contribute ideas on how this ambition can be further shaped, in close cooperation with the national government.
On behalf of the Economic Board The Hague,
Harry Wientjens – Chair
