Human rights in Dutch foreign policy

Besides enhancing security and prosperity, promoting human rights is one of the main aims of Dutch foreign policy. To be effective we have to be selective and work with others. In April 2011 the Dutch government completed its updated human rights strategy ‘Responsible for Freedom’.  The Netherlands’ human rights policy is founded on the three pillars of security, prosperity and freedom. These pillars reinforce each other; together they form the basis of respect for human rights.

Within these themes, the Netherlands focuses on freedom of expression and internet freedom, freedom of religion and belief, equal rights for all, combating systematic and serious human rights violations, supporting human rights defenders, human rights in conflict situations, fundamental labour standards (as promoted by the International Labour Organization) and a level playing field, corporate social responsibility (CSO) and the contribution of human rights to development. We aim to play a more active role through EU foreign policy, cooperation within the UN, and strengthening regional organisations. Below we will look more closely at the main themes of our human rights policy. 

All about Human rights