PAX and other civil society organizations are organizing a debate on the relationship of the Netherlands and the EU with Latin America on 25 October. Central to the debate is the statement that the Netherlands and the EU need a clear policy and strategy towards Latin America, specifically on the themes of democracy, rule of law, responsible trade and human rights.
Latin America has long been of interest to the Netherlands and the EU as a supplier of raw materials from mining and agriculture. A new series of trade agreements between the EU and Latin America also contains a promising focus on the protection of workers and the environment, as well as a role for civil society in monitoring the implementation of the trade agreements.
Nevertheless, the worrying political and economic developments in Latin America and the changing geopolitical relations show that we need to increase our knowledge and understanding of the region and perhaps even redefine our role in the region. The US remains the most important country for Latin America, but China wants to strengthen its position as a trading partner in the region and is challenging EU instruments for responsible trade.
This debate will address these developments and look at how we in the Netherlands and the EU, together with regional actors, can stand up for democratic values and transparency in Latin America.
Keynote speakers are Barbara Hogenboom and Carlos Dada. Barbara Hogenboom is professor of Latin American Studies at the University of Amsterdam’s (UvA) Faculty of Humanities and director of UvA’s Centre for Latin American Research and Documentation (CEDLA). Carlos Dada runs the Salvadoran investigative newspaper El Faro. Through his articles, Dada manages to unravel the facts and separate truth from lies. El Faro is crucial in the region’s quest for human rights and democracy.
Monday 25th October 14.30- 19.00 – Nieuwspoort The Hague
More infomation, programme and sign up at cnvinternationaal.nl.
Read also the two pager Linking Latin America: The Netherlands and the EU in a shifting context.