Events
International organisations for peace and justice open to the public 21 September 2008
The United Nations has proclaimed 21 September as the Day of Peace. This international day will be celebrated extensively in The Hague.
On Sunday, 21 September a number of international organisations based in The Hague will open their doors to the public, offering a unique glimpse behind the scenes. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Peace Palace, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will all offer guided tours from 13.00 to 17.00 hrs.
An additional nine organisations will present themselves in the World Forum. While the World Forum is open to everybody, visitors to the ICJ, ICTY and OPCW need to register in advance via www.dayofpeace.nl.
In addition, various events will be organised throughout the weekend of 20 and 21 September to celebrate the 'Day of Peace'. On 20 September 'A Peaceful Night', a political debate on the situation in the Middle East, will be held on the Grote Markt. The evening debate will feature Arend Jan Boekestijn (member of the Lower House) and Rob de Wijk as well as musical performances by promising bands such as Voicst and Hit Me TV.
The message of peace and the walk for peace
On 21 September Judge Rosalyn Higgins, President of the International Court of Justice, will deliver a message of peace from the steps of the Peace Palace. Thereafter, she and Mayor Jozias van Aartsen of The Hague will give the green light for the annual Intercultural Peace Parade. Swathed in traditional costumes and accompanied by rhythmic music, the intercultural parade will move from the Peace Palace towards the Grote Markt. Here the walk will conclude with performances by African and South American bands.
A Peace Wall will be standing on the Grote Markt during the weekend and is meant for the public to write or paint their own wishes for peace.
For more information and the full program, see www.dayofpeace.nl. You can also use this website to register for the Open Day at the International Organisations.