The Netherlands defends international law only when it’s convenient
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The Netherlands presents itself globally as a defender of the law, but in reality this position often depends on geopolitical interests. Three international law experts, Anna Marhold, Joris Larik and Nico Schrijver, comment in NRC newspaper.
Selective application of principles
According to Assistant Professor of International Law, Anna-Alexandra Marhold, the Netherlands is known for defending the international legal order. But its position is not always consistent. In a political crisis, the Dutch government is sometimes cautious about openly criticising its allies. As a result, Marhold says, this creates the impression that international law is used only when it is politically convenient. ‘It’s used when it’s convenient. But when the ayatollahs need to be removed, politicians act as if it no longer matters’.
Balancing ideals and interests
Joris Larik, Associate Professor of Comparative, EU and International Law, says it is difficult to find a balance between principles and strategic interests, and he can understand the position of the Dutch government. On the one hand, governments must identify violations of international law, but on the other hand they must consider geopolitical interests. Larik says the Dutch position is a bit like 'walking on a tightrope – defending the international legal order and identifying violations, but also not losing sight of strategic self-interests.'
Bombing a country will not bring democracy
Professor emeritus of international law, Nico Schrijver, points out that in the build-up to the Iraq War there was much discussion in Europe about the legal basis for the war. This is much less the case now with Iran. 'No-one knows exactly how the war started or what the goal is.’ Schrijver finds this the most worrying. He also says it is naive to believe you can bring a country democracy by bombing it. That did not work in Iraq, Libya and Afghanistan. 'When will we finally learn from these bitter lessons that this is not how you help a population?'
More information?
Read the full article in NRC (€, in Dutch)