Directorate of International Affairs

The Directorate of International Affairs (Bestuursdienst Internationaal/BI) is the central office within the municipality for international affairs. BI has 3 core activities, which were formulated in 2009 in the memorandum entitled 'Verleiden en Verbinden' (Attract and Connect). These activities are: The Hague Bridge, European and United Nations city, and The Hague knowledge city.

Other activities include:

• coordinating the municipality's international policy
• creating connections between the international city and the residents of The Hague
• attracting international (non) governmental organisations
• reporting to The Hague Municipal Executive on international policy

Contact details

Bestuursdienst Internationaal
Spui 70
2511 BT The Hague
Tel: +31 (0)70 353 32 04
E-mail: BSD-internationaal@denhaag.nl

History of international diplomacy

The Hague has a long history in international diplomacy and in hosting international organisations. It all started with the first Hague Peace Conference, held in the city in 1899. Since then, more and more institutions have been drawn to The Hague.

The city is now home to some 160 international organisations such as the International Criminal Court and the OPCW, working towards a common goal: a just and peaceful world for everyone, a world where opportunities in life are the same for everyone.

Strategic location

The Hague is strategically situated in the western part of the Netherlands. Located in the heart of one of Europe's largest urban centres, the city has excellent rail and road connections with the rest of the Netherlands and Europe. With 2 international airports within easy reach, The Hague's accessibility could not be better.

More info

• Download the Guide to International Organisations in The Hague under The Hague, International City of Peace and Justice.
• Download the 'NGO Roadmap: Starting an NGO in The Hague' if you plan to establish an office for Non-governmental organisations (NGOs).