We are thrilled to announce our upcoming GA! symposium, “The Netherlands at Europe’s Crossroads,” co-organized with UCU’s Politics Committee. This event is a testament to our commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding around the crucial role the Netherlands plays in a rapidly evolving European landscape.

Event Details

📆Date: October 8, 2024
⌛Time: Walk-in from 18:45 – 19:00; Symposium from 19:00 – 21:00
📍Location: Dining Hall, Utrecht University College. (Maupertuusplein 1, 3584 EE Utrecht)

As the European international arena undergoes unprecedented shifts, our symposium will provide a platform for exploring how Dutch foreign policy can adapt to these new realities.

We have assembled an impressive panel of experts who will guide our discussions:

1. Assistant professor in the History of International Relations Marloes Beers – Professor and Researcher in the History of International Relations, Utrecht University
2. Frederik Mertens – Strategic Analyst at Applied-Natural Science Research (TNO) and former Strategic Analyst at The Hague Center For Strategic Studies (HCSS)
3. Diederick van Wijk – Research Fellow at the Clingendael Institute

Each speaker will argue for or against these thought-provoking statements provided by GA!, inciting a dynamic debate on crucial issues:

• Marloes Beers: “The Netherlands should prioritize energy independence and sustainability as a core component of its EU strategy, especially in the context of the energy crisis, building upon its historical role as an innovator in energy technology.”🪫⚡
• Frederik Mertens: “The Netherlands should champion deeper military integration within the EU to strengthen collective security, particularly in the face of modern threats and an increasing isolationist US.”🪖
• Diederick van Wijk: “The Netherlands must redefine its foreign policy to address the shifting geopolitical landscape in Europe, particularly in relation to Russia and China, while learning from historical precedents of Dutch diplomacy.”🌍

In true GA! fashion, we will also feature a student panel following the main presentations. This segment exemplifies our mission to empower emerging thinkers and encourage them to engage directly with experts on pressing issues, bringing fresh perspectives that challenge conventional narratives.

Why You Should Join Us

This symposium is not just an event; it’s a celebration of our collective efforts to understand and influence the future of Dutch policy in Europe. Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Gain insights from leading experts in international relations and security
• Engage in critical discussions about the Netherlands’ future in Europe
• Connect historical context with current geopolitical challenges
• Network with fellow students and professionals passionate about European affairs

We look forward to welcoming you to this thought-provoking event!

Event Details (again)

📆Date: October 8, 2024
⌛Time: Walk-in from 18:45 – 19:00; Symposium from 19:00 – 21:00
📍Location: Dining Hall, Utrecht University College. (Maupertuusplein 1, 3584 EE Utrecht)