Peace and security are not a given. Therefore, the ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense have organized this tour, with support from the Atlantic Commission, Clingendael, and The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS). The aim is to engage a broad audience in discussions about NATO and our security. This topic is important for everyone.
To stimulate this discussion, the program offers various activities, including serious gaming (e-sports tournament) from Defense, a mobile photo exhibition from Foreign Affairs, theater programs, and educational programs for secondary schools from the Atlantic Commission, as well as research and debates from Clingendael and HCSS. Contributions also come from Haagsch College, Young Atlanticists, The Voters, The Children’s Correspondent, The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN), Veterans for the Class, universities, colleges, and participating municipalities.
The tour will be launched with a parachute jump by Defense at the World Forum (weather permitting). Paratroopers will present flags to Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, Mayor Jan van Zanen of The Hague, and Director of the Atlantic Commission Anna van Zoest. The photo exhibition will also be opened during the launch at the World Forum.
NATO summit with students
From Monday, January 27 to Thursday, January 31, the 57th edition of the annual The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN) will take place at the World Forum, with 3,200 students from 200 schools in 100 countries participating. They simulate sessions of the Security Council or deliberations of other UN organizations.
This year, the students will also simulate the NATO summit of 2025, where 32 students will take on the roles of NATO allies and collectively draft a final declaration. These students will also be present at the start of the NATO Tour through the Netherlands.