Happening now Rule of Law Cybersecurity

The NATO Summit in The Hague: the city for dialogue in times of global tension

5 min 12 May 2025

As The Hague prepares to host the NATO Summit in June, the city is bracing for heightened security, disruptions and the arrival of high-level diplomatic delegations. Known for over 125 years as the International City of Peace and Justice, strong in offering solutions to create a better, safer, more peaceful world together and offering a hub for global dialogue. In an era marked by global uncertainty, one message stands clear: dialogue about Peace and Justice is more important than ever.

Profiel foto Graziella Guarguaglini THP_Team Portraits_20230914_HPM_Davis

By Graziëlla Guarguaglini Get in touch

News, food, cook, family, cat and capibara lover.

From peace talks to climate justice

The Hague's legacy as the City of Peace and Justice dates back over a century. In 1899, the city hosted the First Hague Peace Conference, convened at the initiative of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia and hosted by Queen Wilhelmina at Huis ten Bosch. This pioneering gathering of 26 nations aimed to promote the peaceful settlement of conflicts and led to the establishment of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The world’s oldest standing institution for the peaceful settlement of disputes between states. Based in the Peace Palace, a gift of Andrew Carnegie, symbolising the city’s enduring commitment to diplomacy and legal order. In the same Peace Palace is the home of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Famous about their advisory opinion within the biggest climate case in history and many other disputes between countries and organisations.

Where peace had a woman’s voice

In 1915, amidst the turmoil of World War I, The Hague became the meeting place for over 1,100 women from warring and neutral countries during the International Congress of Women. Led by prominent figures such as Jane Addams and Aletta Jacobs, the congress advocated for peace and resulted in the formation of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, an organisation that continues to promote peace and women's rights today.

A global hub for cooperation and law

In addition to well-known institutions such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the PCA continues to address complex cases involving everything from maritime boundaries and trade to cultural heritage and even outer space. The Clingendael Institute offers in-depth analysis and diplomatic training to foster bridge-building in complex geopolitical contexts. Europol coordinates efforts to combat cross-border crime and terrorism across Europe. The Asser Institute conducts pioneering legal research in the field of international and human rights law, while HiiL (The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law) focuses on accessible and innovative justice solutions for citizens worldwide. Together with knowledge institutions such as The Hague University of Applied Sciences, where practice-based research is carried out in areas like health tech and security, these organisations form a dynamic ecosystem of many other peaceful institutions dedicated to international cooperation and societal impact.

About the NATO Summit in The Hague

The NATO Summit in The Hague takes place on the 24th and 25th of June 2025. It brings together heads of 45 states, ministers, military leaders and diplomats for strategic dialogue on global security. The event involves significant logistical measures and temporary disruptions for the city. Areas of The Hague will be partly closed during the summit, while the Dutch police believes the NATO Summit will become the largest security effort in the force’s history, with 27,000 police officers expected to work 46,000 shifts around the event. It also affirms The Hague’s longstanding position as a centre of peace, justice and global dialogue.

"Now more than ever, it is important to connect and continue working together for Peace and Justice."

Mayor of The Hague, Jan van Zanen.

The Road to Summit

In the weeks leading up to the NATO Summit, The Hague is hosting a series of public dialogues, expert panels and educational programmes under the banner 'Road to Summit'. These events bring together students, residents, policy makers and international thinkers to explore themes such as security, diplomacy, disinformation and resilience. By opening up the conversation beyond the walls of official venues, The Road to Summit reflects The Hague’s belief that global issues deserve public engagement — and that meaningful change begins with inclusive dialogue.

Just Peace Festival

From the 12th until the 26th of June the annual Just Peace Festival takes place. A city-wide celebration of peace, justice and human rights. Through exhibitions, dialogues, films, community events and educational activities, the festival invites residents and visitors alike to engage with the organisations and individuals working every day to make a difference. It is a moment to reflect, connect and participate in the values The Hague stands for — not only during international summits, but year-round. The Just Peace Festival embodies the city’s ongoing commitment to building a more just and peaceful world, together.

NATO and the Netherlands: A journey

To mark the occasion of the NATO Summit, the Dutch government launched NATO door Nederland — a national initiative that highlights the importance of NATO’s presence and partnerships through the lens of Dutch society. With exhibitions, interviews, regional events and digital storytelling, the platform offers insights into how NATO’s values of collective defence and international cooperation are reflected in the Netherlands. It connects citizens with stories of security, diplomacy, and peacebuilding, and underscores the role of Dutch people, institutions and regions in shaping a safer future — both at home and abroad.