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Turkish parliamentary representatives on 4 day study trip in The Hague
EALL, 15 July 2009
At the invitation of the EALL, an official delegation from the Turkish parliament had a successful study trip to The Hague. During their visit from 6 to 10 July, the Turkish visitors met Dutch parliamentarians and representatives from influential advisory organisations like the Social and Economic Council (SER) and the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers (VNO-NCW). The visitors were particularly intrigued and impressed by the role of the SER in the Dutch system, which also invited the necessary questions.

Intensive programme

The EALL had organised an intensive programme for the visitors. The Turkish parliamentarians naturally talked at length with their Dutch counterparts. To deepen their insight into Dutch political and social relationships, however, the EALL had also arranged meetings with representatives from organisations that are important discussion partners for Dutch politicians and that have an important influence on political decision-making in the Netherlands.

Foreign policy and jurisdiction

After the reception at the academy, the first day started with discussions with the Netherlands Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV), an independent agency that advises the Dutch government and parliament on foreign policy, particularly on themes like human rights, peace and safety, development aid and European integration.
Later in the day, the Turkish delegation met the Dutch Association for the Judiciary (NVvR), the independent association and union for judges and public prosecutors in the Netherlands. The day ended with discussions with members of the Upper House.

Science and industry

On the second day, there were four visits on the programme. In the morning, the VSNU, the association of the fourteen Dutch universities, and VNO-NCW. The latter is the biggest association of employers and industry in the Netherlands that represents Dutch industry at national and international level.
In the afternoon, a speaker from the Netherlands Scientific Council for Government Policy (WRR) addressed the delegation. The WRR provides the government with scientific advice about developments of social importance.

Social and Economic Council

One of the most interesting institutions in the Dutch political and social force field is the Social and Economic Council (SER). Members of the SER include entrepreneurs, employees and independent experts (Crown-appointed members). It is one of the most influential advisory councils in the Netherlands, advising the government and parliament on general social and economic policy and related legislation. The SER is thus important for instigating wide social support for government policy.
The Turkish delegation was impressed with the success of this partnership between politics and industry, but also asked critical questions about the position of the SER in relation to parliament, for example. Because: ‘who ultimately decides on policy in the Netherlands?’ The hosts emphasised that government and parliament were the real decision-makers.
The last day featured meetings with the clerks of both Houses and Dutch members of parliament.

In the coming months, the EALL plans to invite other candidate member states of the European Union for a study visit to The Hague.

 
 

Agenda

Pictures

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