What is more important: nature or nurture? Scientists have been grappling with this puzzle for over a century. Recently, a different take on this important puzzle has been offered by investigators. Are we what our genes dictate us to be, or are we what our environment offers us, in order to become who we are? The debate has been conducted in the form of opposite schools of thought. You either belong in the camp of nature or nurture. With the advent of increasingly sophisticated DNA techniques, nature appeared to be winning.
As Prof. dr. Isabelle Duyvesteyn concludes three dynamic years as Chair of the International Studies programme, she takes a moment to reflect on the journey—one marked by collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to students. Read the full farewell message and look back on a term of leadership, growth, and gratitude.
In April, the BA IS Latin America section hosted a thought-provoking panel on the mounting challenges to democracy in the region. International Studies teacher Juliët Tinebra provides a concise recap of the event and its key takeaways.
In March 2024, BASIS welcomed the South Korean NGO PSCORE for the first time at Leiden University, marking the beginning of a powerful tradition. Now in its second edition, this event brought together an array of students to hear moving testimonies from North Korean defectors and to deepen understanding of human rights challenges in the region. Yamal van Oordt from BASIS provides a detailed recap of the impactful discussions, personal stories, and the ongoing commitment to awareness and solidarity. Read the full account below.
Nominate a fellow student to be a Student Representative in the International Studies Programme Board!
Gijs Zebregts had just graduated from International Studies when he was stricken with acute leukaemia. A stem cell donor brought relief. Now he is going to cycle from Florence to Rotterdam to raise money and awareness for the donor bank.
The Cambridge History of Strategy explores how leaders of different social groups, civilisations, empires and states have practised strategy over the course of three millennia. With contributions written by leading experts in each subject, the book offers new perspectives on the history of strategy. We are thrilled to announce that our Chair Professor Isabelle Duyvesteyn has co-edited two significant volumes in the field of strategic studies, in collaboration with Professor Beatrice Heuser from the University of Glasgow.
How can objects reveal unspoken histories? In Unboxing: Uitgepakte Verhalen, Dr. Gerlov van Engelenhoven explores Moluccan heritage in the Netherlands. Through artifacts and stories, the vodcast highlights memory, silence, and expression beyond words. In this news article, he shares his experience being part of Unboxing.
On the 21st of January, twenty-one dedicated teachers were awarded their Senior Teaching Qualification (SKO). Our esteemed colleague, Dr. Georgiana Bӑlӑu, was one of them. Below she shares her experience. By Georgiana Bӑlӑu | 23-01-2025
The BASIS East Asia Committee visited the Japanese Embassy in The Hague to explore Japan’s culture and international relations. The trip included thoughtful gifts, engaging discussions on global diplomacy, and insights into East Asian politics.
