The Location of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague
The Hague: The Political and International Capital of the Netherlands
The Hague, a city in the Netherlands, is not only the capital of the province of South Holland but also the de facto capital of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is home to the government, ministries, parliament, Dutch Supreme Court, and Dutch Council of State. The city also houses the palaces of the Dutch royal family, including “Huis ten Bosch,” where King Willem-Alexander resides, and “Noordeinde Palace,” where he works. In addition, The Hague is where numerous diplomatic missions and foreign embassies are located, making it a hub of international relations.
Despite its prominent role in the governance of the country, The Hague is not the official capital of the Netherlands according to the country’s constitution. That title belongs to Amsterdam. Nevertheless, The Hague has firmly established itself as a center for international diplomacy and justice.
The city is home to a staggering 150 international institutions, making it a key player on the global stage. Notable among these are the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, solidifying The Hague’s reputation as a significant international center. It stands alongside cities like New York, Vienna, Geneva, and Nairobi, where additional offices of United Nations agencies are located.
With its impressive political and international presence, The Hague continues to demonstrate its importance as a city of influence and significance. Whether as the administrative capital of the Netherlands or as a global diplomatic powerhouse, The Hague’s impact is felt far and wide.
