Special appointments
Besides the ambassadors appointed to foreign states, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has an Ambassador at Large, who is at the disposal of the Ministry’s political leaders to undertake special assignments. The Ministry also has a number of special ambassadors, each dedicated to a particular theme. This is an overview of special appointments and their areas of responsibility.
Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation
The position of Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation was created in 1980, in response to the Ministry’s increasing focus on international cultural policy. Today, culture is an integral part of Dutch foreign policy. Cultural diplomacy can take many forms. Culture has the power to open doors in foreign relations and can be a catalyst for discussion and social change, both at home and abroad.
Ambassador for International Organisations
The Netherlands’ reputation as host country depends in large part on the way it welcomes international organisations. These organisations, their employees and the latter’s families are also a boon to the local economy. In 2005, the Cabinet decided to develop a coherent, government-wide policy to improve the Netherlands’ performance as a host country, which included the appointment of a special Ambassador for International Organisations (AMIO).
Human Rights Ambassador
The Netherlands has had a special ambassador dedicated to human rights since 1999. The position gives the Netherlands a visible, distinctive profile in the area of human rights. The Human Rights Ambassador also strives for greater coherence in Dutch human rights policy.