The Netherlands and International Law

The Netherlands is one of the cradles of modern international law. This is not just because its capital, The Hague is dubbed the ‘legal capital of the world’, but also because it has put a high premium on international law in its foreign policy. Initially, it saw international law as an insurance policy against the scheming of the larger European powers. Especially since the 1970s, however, it has staked out a more universalist position, particularly by actively promoting human rights in its foreign policy. The Dutch self-image of a champion of international law is not free of contradictions, however. The Netherlands is only slowly coming to terms with its colonial past and legacy. Also, its reliance on international law is at times selective and self-serving. Its independent courts, advisory bodies, vibrant media, and academic institutions may however prevent its international law confidence from turning into smugness.