What struck me straight away was that the Prime Minister is exceptionally well-versed in our case. That gives us the feeling that we have an ally. This was confirmed later that afternoon. He posted on his own LinkedIn account that he had met with us for a fruitful discussion about our initiative. I appreciate the fact that he mentioned the coalition so quickly and so publicly.
During the conversation, we referred to his speech at the UN in September, as it says a great deal about his commitment. In it, he advocated for international law, genuine climate action and full representation for Africa on the Security Council. Whilst that speech received little attention in the Netherlands, it certainly did so on the international stage. Jetten is demonstrating that the Netherlands dares to go against the international tide, particularly now that more and more countries are turning inwards. We regard this as a great asset.
He also emphasised how important it is to develop a new narrative for development cooperation – or, as he himself puts it, international cooperation. We wholeheartedly agree with this, and we are keen to contribute to a narrative that is appropriate for our times. We at Partos will be working hard on this in the coming period (together with our members).
During the meeting, we highlighted three key points for him to consider:
Globally: continue to invest in human rights and civic space, now that pressure on these is mounting. Protect activists, aid workers and human rights defenders.
In Europe: prevent cuts to the European budget for international cooperation and ensure that at least 10 per cent of the new Multiannual Financial Framework goes to the Global Europe Instrument.
In the Netherlands: prevent further cuts to the 2027 budget from once again affecting development cooperation. It is an indispensable part of foreign policy, including for stability, security and as a form of soft power.
After the meeting, we were invited to have our photograph taken. We did with an NL away shirt, with the Nederland is geen eiland ball and without… the captain’s armband. We completely forgot to hand it over. That calls for another meeting in the near future. Until then, we will continue to promote the positive message that a strong, reliable, strategic and united Netherlands looks beyond its own borders.
About Nederland is geen Eiland
Nederland is geen eiland is a broad coalition of civil society organisations that are jointly committed to global development and international solidarity. The coalition includes, amongst others, the KNVB, FNV, the Council of Churches, Oxfam Novib, Cordaid, Solidaridad and Partos, united in the conviction that the Netherlands does not stand alone. Together, they emphasise that investing in international cooperation remains essential for a just, prosperous, safe and stable world, and therefore for the Netherlands too.