I am a diplomat but also an independent researcher. My specialization is sustainable development (goals) and cosmovisions of the global south. Derived from living in different parts of the world, i e South Africa, Sri Lanka, Turkey, France and research in Ecuador, Bhutan, South Africa.
What are the possible consequences of observed shifting patterns of poverty for the post-2015 age... more What are the possible consequences of observed shifting patterns of poverty for the post-2015 agenda and possibly, related changes in inequality within and between countries? On the basis of the analytical part of this advisory report the Dutch Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV) foresee the following priorities with respect to policy aimed at rapidly growing middle-income countries: To work together with these countries to achieve policy coherence in international cooperation and involve them in the provision of global public goods. This could be achieved by introducing trilateral cooperation between high-, middle- and low-income countries. Such a multilateral and trilateral effort could then foster corporate social responsibility (including for the environment) and a better business climate in these countries. It could also promote human rights, including labour rights and a guaranteed minimum income, with a view to achieving a better distribution of income. Dutch poli...
Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Pu... more Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Public Goods (GPGs) extensively, there is very little work on connecting these with Southern concepts in order to make the underlying inspiration for policy processes truly inclusive. Hence, this paper focuses on how such links can be made. It argues in favor of linking the Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – to modern ideas of well-being and African communitarian philosophy to GPGs. These two concepts of human well-being and the need to govern GPGs are intrinsically linked to the MDGs post 2015 and could help to make the MDGs truly inclusive.
A short introduction: A Happiness, Ubuntu and Buen Vivir interdisciplinary view of the Sustainabl... more A short introduction: A Happiness, Ubuntu and Buen Vivir interdisciplinary view of the Sustainable Development Goals. This thesis investigates whether ‘non-Western’ philosophical values that form part of ‘non-Western’ cultural heritage are well enough (or can be) integrated in the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the implementation thereof. Three case studies are used to substantiate the theoretical and conceptual approach. These are Ubuntu in South Africa, Buen Vivir in Ecuador and Gross National Happiness in Bhutan. Participation of other worldviews was nominally guaranteed through the negotiations around the SDGs, while the Millennium Development Goals were not negotiated by the UN member states, but formulated by the UN (originating from a proposal of the OECD) after the 2000 Millennium Declaration. It was based on a Western result-based management philosophy and addressed conventional development concerns (poverty, gender, education, diseases, environment and aid w...
International Environmental Agreements: Politics, Law and Economics
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a normative (non-binding) global international environme... more The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a normative (non-binding) global international environmental agreement (IEA)—claim to be universal as they were multilaterally negotiated between UN member states. However, is giving the Global South a seat at the table truly inclusive development? This article looks at a cross-cultural comparison of the African philosophy of Ubuntu (specifically in South Africa), the Buddhist Gross National Happiness (Bhutan) and the native American idea of Buen Vivir (e.g. Ecuador) and how they view the SDGs, how they view ‘development’, ‘sustainability’, goals and indicators, the implicit value underpinnings of the SDGs, prioritization of goals, and missing links, and leadership. Viewed through the lens of the three cosmovisions of the Global, the SDGs do not effectively address the human–nature–well-being interrelationship. Other cosmovisions have an inherent biocentric value orientation that is often ignored in academic and diplomatic circles. These clai...
The report of the Open Working Group (OWG) on SDGs is praised as paradigm shift. Communicating th... more The report of the Open Working Group (OWG) on SDGs is praised as paradigm shift. Communicating these goals is now key, not only for their survival during the negotiations in the General Assembly next year, but also for their effective implementation.
Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Pu... more Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Public Goods (GPGs) extensively, there is very little work on connecting these with Southern concepts in order to make the underlying inspiration for policy processes truly inclusive. Hence, this paper focuses on how such links can be made. It argues in favor of linking the Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – to modern ideas of well-being and African communitarian philosophy to GPGs. These two concepts of human well-being and the need to govern GPGs are intrinsically linked to the MDGs post 2015 and could help to make the MDGs truly inclusive.
Despite the shortcomings of the Millennium Development Goals as a development tool, they have pro... more Despite the shortcomings of the Millennium Development Goals as a development tool, they have proven to be an important communication tool that is worth preserving after 2015. Inclusion of important themes of the Millennium Declaration and elements of the capability theory is essential in a post-2015 system, as well as putting human rights and gender principles at its core. Process orientation rather than end goals could lead to ‘Millennium Development Actions’ with ‘Progress Signs’, which, represented in a circular symbol, form a ‘wheel of development’, complemented by a Wheel of Governance.
The draft report was drawn up by a drafting committee, chaired by Professor R. van der Hoeven. Th... more The draft report was drawn up by a drafting committee, chaired by Professor R. van der Hoeven. The committee members were F.A.J. Baneke, Dr B.S.M. Berendsen, Professor M.E. de Bruijn, Ms G. Crijns, Ms M. Monteiro and Professor E.B. Zoomers. The Executive Secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren.
Regarding the central question, Dutch development policy is facing a major challenge. The traditional approach focuses on providing aid and expertise in the poorest countries. In the AIV’s view, many countries that have developed into MICs have sufficient governance and financial capacity to take on more responsibility. A first response to this is the oft-repeated call to stop providing such countries with aid. However, rather than terminating development ties with MICs, the AIV argues for a different approach. One reason for this is that the dividing line between low- and middle-income countries is very arbitrary. Countries that are just above the line are not always more developed than those just below it. MICs also include a number of fragile states and countries in conflict, where aid remains necessary. In addition, reaching deprived groups in MICs requires a constructive policy dialogue with these countries. Such a dialogue with middle-income countries offers benefits to all parties. For these countries the AIV recommends a shift from pure bilateral development policy to a policy of international cooperation, based more on multilateral cooperation and the civil society and private sector channels. The bilateral channel can continue to be of great importance to low-income countries, though in light of rapid geopolitical changes it will need to be more flexible and less focused on rigid country choices, and where possible the aid should be provided in cooperation with a number of large middle-income countries (trilateral). The AIV advises the Dutch government to take the lead in setting up a dialogue with other donors, large MICs and low-income countries on a trilateral approach of this kind.
This report was prepared by a joint committee consisting of Professor R. van der Hoeven (COS, cha... more This report was prepared by a joint committee consisting of Professor R. van der Hoeven (COS, chair), Professor K.C.J.M. Arts (CMR), F.A.J. Baneke (external expert), S. Borren (AIV/COS), Dr B.S.M. Berendsen (COS), Dr N. Tellegen (COS) and A. van der Velden (COS). The secretariat comprised Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary). Part A addresses the government’s question about lessons learned. The first chapter looks at the background to the MDGs and how they came about, and what they have achieved. The second chapter, in response to a number of the government’s questions, examines whether the MDGs have proven to be a workable concept. Chapter III discusses a large number of themes which many people consider to havebeen neglected or underexposed in the MDGs. Chapter IV looks at what the MDGs have meant for policy in developing countries and donor countries, while chapter V explores the options for after 2015, when the current MDG period expires. Part B examines the government’s question about a new approach to development. In chapter I, the AIV provides an outline of recent global developments that are relevant to development policy and the positioning of development goals after 2015. In chapter II, the AIV looks at themes and challenges for development. Chapter III focuses on a number of neglected themes, while chapter IV outlines a conceptual basis for global development. Lastly, chapter V explores new forms of global governance and the discussion on global public goods.
This advisory report is a response to the report by the Advisory Council on Government Policy (WR... more This advisory report is a response to the report by the Advisory Council on Government Policy (WRR) entitled Less Pretension, More Ambition – Development aid that makes a difference published in January 2010, which deals with the future of development cooperation. The Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV) considered a response to this report to be appropriate, in view of the current debate on development cooperation. Rather than give a comprehensive critique of the WRR report, the AIV has selected a number of its main themes. This advisory report was prepared by the following members of the Development Cooperation Committee: Professor R. van der Hoeven (Chair), Dr B.S.M. Berendsen, Ms S. Borren, Dr L. Schulpen and Mr A. van der Velden. Contributions were provided by Professor W.J.M. van Genugten (Human Rights Committee), Professor J.J.C. Voorhoeve and Lt. Gen. M.L.M. Urlings (retd) (Peace and Security Committee) and the other members of the Development Cooperation Committee. The executive secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary of the Development Cooperation Committee), assisted by Ms S.R. Airoldi (trainee).
What are the possible consequences of observed shifting patterns of poverty for the post-2015 age... more What are the possible consequences of observed shifting patterns of poverty for the post-2015 agenda and possibly, related changes in inequality within and between countries? On the basis of the analytical part of this advisory report the Dutch Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV) foresee the following priorities with respect to policy aimed at rapidly growing middle-income countries: To work together with these countries to achieve policy coherence in international cooperation and involve them in the provision of global public goods. This could be achieved by introducing trilateral cooperation between high-, middle- and low-income countries. Such a multilateral and trilateral effort could then foster corporate social responsibility (including for the environment) and a better business climate in these countries. It could also promote human rights, including labour rights and a guaranteed minimum income, with a view to achieving a better distribution of income. Dutch poli...
Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Pu... more Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Public Goods (GPGs) extensively, there is very little work on connecting these with Southern concepts in order to make the underlying inspiration for policy processes truly inclusive. Hence, this paper focuses on how such links can be made. It argues in favor of linking the Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – to modern ideas of well-being and African communitarian philosophy to GPGs. These two concepts of human well-being and the need to govern GPGs are intrinsically linked to the MDGs post 2015 and could help to make the MDGs truly inclusive.
A short introduction: A Happiness, Ubuntu and Buen Vivir interdisciplinary view of the Sustainabl... more A short introduction: A Happiness, Ubuntu and Buen Vivir interdisciplinary view of the Sustainable Development Goals. This thesis investigates whether ‘non-Western’ philosophical values that form part of ‘non-Western’ cultural heritage are well enough (or can be) integrated in the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the implementation thereof. Three case studies are used to substantiate the theoretical and conceptual approach. These are Ubuntu in South Africa, Buen Vivir in Ecuador and Gross National Happiness in Bhutan. Participation of other worldviews was nominally guaranteed through the negotiations around the SDGs, while the Millennium Development Goals were not negotiated by the UN member states, but formulated by the UN (originating from a proposal of the OECD) after the 2000 Millennium Declaration. It was based on a Western result-based management philosophy and addressed conventional development concerns (poverty, gender, education, diseases, environment and aid w...
International Environmental Agreements: Politics, Law and Economics
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a normative (non-binding) global international environme... more The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a normative (non-binding) global international environmental agreement (IEA)—claim to be universal as they were multilaterally negotiated between UN member states. However, is giving the Global South a seat at the table truly inclusive development? This article looks at a cross-cultural comparison of the African philosophy of Ubuntu (specifically in South Africa), the Buddhist Gross National Happiness (Bhutan) and the native American idea of Buen Vivir (e.g. Ecuador) and how they view the SDGs, how they view ‘development’, ‘sustainability’, goals and indicators, the implicit value underpinnings of the SDGs, prioritization of goals, and missing links, and leadership. Viewed through the lens of the three cosmovisions of the Global, the SDGs do not effectively address the human–nature–well-being interrelationship. Other cosmovisions have an inherent biocentric value orientation that is often ignored in academic and diplomatic circles. These clai...
The report of the Open Working Group (OWG) on SDGs is praised as paradigm shift. Communicating th... more The report of the Open Working Group (OWG) on SDGs is praised as paradigm shift. Communicating these goals is now key, not only for their survival during the negotiations in the General Assembly next year, but also for their effective implementation.
Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Pu... more Although the literature covers the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), well-being, and Global Public Goods (GPGs) extensively, there is very little work on connecting these with Southern concepts in order to make the underlying inspiration for policy processes truly inclusive. Hence, this paper focuses on how such links can be made. It argues in favor of linking the Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – to modern ideas of well-being and African communitarian philosophy to GPGs. These two concepts of human well-being and the need to govern GPGs are intrinsically linked to the MDGs post 2015 and could help to make the MDGs truly inclusive.
Despite the shortcomings of the Millennium Development Goals as a development tool, they have pro... more Despite the shortcomings of the Millennium Development Goals as a development tool, they have proven to be an important communication tool that is worth preserving after 2015. Inclusion of important themes of the Millennium Declaration and elements of the capability theory is essential in a post-2015 system, as well as putting human rights and gender principles at its core. Process orientation rather than end goals could lead to ‘Millennium Development Actions’ with ‘Progress Signs’, which, represented in a circular symbol, form a ‘wheel of development’, complemented by a Wheel of Governance.
The draft report was drawn up by a drafting committee, chaired by Professor R. van der Hoeven. Th... more The draft report was drawn up by a drafting committee, chaired by Professor R. van der Hoeven. The committee members were F.A.J. Baneke, Dr B.S.M. Berendsen, Professor M.E. de Bruijn, Ms G. Crijns, Ms M. Monteiro and Professor E.B. Zoomers. The Executive Secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren.
Regarding the central question, Dutch development policy is facing a major challenge. The traditional approach focuses on providing aid and expertise in the poorest countries. In the AIV’s view, many countries that have developed into MICs have sufficient governance and financial capacity to take on more responsibility. A first response to this is the oft-repeated call to stop providing such countries with aid. However, rather than terminating development ties with MICs, the AIV argues for a different approach. One reason for this is that the dividing line between low- and middle-income countries is very arbitrary. Countries that are just above the line are not always more developed than those just below it. MICs also include a number of fragile states and countries in conflict, where aid remains necessary. In addition, reaching deprived groups in MICs requires a constructive policy dialogue with these countries. Such a dialogue with middle-income countries offers benefits to all parties. For these countries the AIV recommends a shift from pure bilateral development policy to a policy of international cooperation, based more on multilateral cooperation and the civil society and private sector channels. The bilateral channel can continue to be of great importance to low-income countries, though in light of rapid geopolitical changes it will need to be more flexible and less focused on rigid country choices, and where possible the aid should be provided in cooperation with a number of large middle-income countries (trilateral). The AIV advises the Dutch government to take the lead in setting up a dialogue with other donors, large MICs and low-income countries on a trilateral approach of this kind.
This report was prepared by a joint committee consisting of Professor R. van der Hoeven (COS, cha... more This report was prepared by a joint committee consisting of Professor R. van der Hoeven (COS, chair), Professor K.C.J.M. Arts (CMR), F.A.J. Baneke (external expert), S. Borren (AIV/COS), Dr B.S.M. Berendsen (COS), Dr N. Tellegen (COS) and A. van der Velden (COS). The secretariat comprised Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary). Part A addresses the government’s question about lessons learned. The first chapter looks at the background to the MDGs and how they came about, and what they have achieved. The second chapter, in response to a number of the government’s questions, examines whether the MDGs have proven to be a workable concept. Chapter III discusses a large number of themes which many people consider to havebeen neglected or underexposed in the MDGs. Chapter IV looks at what the MDGs have meant for policy in developing countries and donor countries, while chapter V explores the options for after 2015, when the current MDG period expires. Part B examines the government’s question about a new approach to development. In chapter I, the AIV provides an outline of recent global developments that are relevant to development policy and the positioning of development goals after 2015. In chapter II, the AIV looks at themes and challenges for development. Chapter III focuses on a number of neglected themes, while chapter IV outlines a conceptual basis for global development. Lastly, chapter V explores new forms of global governance and the discussion on global public goods.
This advisory report is a response to the report by the Advisory Council on Government Policy (WR... more This advisory report is a response to the report by the Advisory Council on Government Policy (WRR) entitled Less Pretension, More Ambition – Development aid that makes a difference published in January 2010, which deals with the future of development cooperation. The Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV) considered a response to this report to be appropriate, in view of the current debate on development cooperation. Rather than give a comprehensive critique of the WRR report, the AIV has selected a number of its main themes. This advisory report was prepared by the following members of the Development Cooperation Committee: Professor R. van der Hoeven (Chair), Dr B.S.M. Berendsen, Ms S. Borren, Dr L. Schulpen and Mr A. van der Velden. Contributions were provided by Professor W.J.M. van Genugten (Human Rights Committee), Professor J.J.C. Voorhoeve and Lt. Gen. M.L.M. Urlings (retd) (Peace and Security Committee) and the other members of the Development Cooperation Committee. The executive secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary of the Development Cooperation Committee), assisted by Ms S.R. Airoldi (trainee).
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extensively, there is very little work on connecting these with Southern concepts in order to make the underlying
inspiration for policy processes truly inclusive. Hence, this paper focuses on how such links can be made. It argues in
favor of linking the Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – to modern ideas of well-being and African communitarian
philosophy to GPGs. These two concepts of human well-being and the need to govern GPGs are intrinsically linked to
the MDGs post 2015 and could help to make the MDGs truly inclusive.
The Executive Secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren.
Regarding the central question, Dutch development policy is facing a major challenge. The traditional approach focuses on providing aid and expertise in the poorest countries.
In the AIV’s view, many countries that have developed into MICs have sufficient governance and financial capacity to take on more responsibility. A first response to this is the oft-repeated call to stop providing such countries with aid. However, rather
than terminating development ties with MICs, the AIV argues for a different approach.
One reason for this is that the dividing line between low- and middle-income countries is very arbitrary. Countries that are just above the line are not always more developed
than those just below it. MICs also include a number of fragile states and countries in
conflict, where aid remains necessary. In addition, reaching deprived groups in MICs requires a constructive policy dialogue with these countries. Such a dialogue with middle-income countries offers benefits to all parties. For these countries the AIV recommends a shift from pure bilateral development policy to a policy of international cooperation, based more on multilateral cooperation and the civil society and private sector channels. The bilateral channel can continue to be of
great importance to low-income countries, though in light of rapid geopolitical changes it will need to be more flexible and less focused on rigid country choices, and where
possible the aid should be provided in cooperation with a number of large middle-income countries (trilateral). The AIV advises the Dutch government to take the lead in setting up a dialogue with other donors, large MICs and low-income countries on a trilateral approach of this kind.
Velden (COS). The secretariat comprised Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary).
Part A addresses the government’s question about lessons learned. The first chapter looks at the background to the MDGs and how they came about, and what they have achieved. The second chapter, in response to a number of the government’s
questions, examines whether the MDGs have proven to be a workable concept.
Chapter III discusses a large number of themes which many people consider to havebeen neglected or underexposed in the MDGs. Chapter IV looks at what the MDGs have meant for policy in developing countries and donor countries, while chapter V explores the options for after 2015, when the current MDG period expires.
Part B examines the government’s question about a new approach to development.
In chapter I, the AIV provides an outline of recent global developments that are relevant to development policy and the positioning of development goals after 2015.
In chapter II, the AIV looks at themes and challenges for development. Chapter III focuses on a number of neglected themes, while chapter IV outlines a conceptual
basis for global development. Lastly, chapter V explores new forms of global governance and the discussion on global public goods.
of development cooperation. The Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV) considered a response to this report to be appropriate, in view of the current debate on development cooperation. Rather than give a comprehensive critique of the WRR report, the AIV has selected a number of its main themes. This advisory report was prepared by the following members of the Development Cooperation
Committee: Professor R. van der Hoeven (Chair), Dr B.S.M. Berendsen, Ms S. Borren, Dr L. Schulpen and Mr A. van der Velden. Contributions were provided by Professor
W.J.M. van Genugten (Human Rights Committee), Professor J.J.C. Voorhoeve and Lt. Gen. M.L.M. Urlings (retd) (Peace and Security Committee) and the other members of
the Development Cooperation Committee. The executive secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary of the Development Cooperation Committee), assisted
by Ms S.R. Airoldi (trainee).
extensively, there is very little work on connecting these with Southern concepts in order to make the underlying
inspiration for policy processes truly inclusive. Hence, this paper focuses on how such links can be made. It argues in
favor of linking the Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – to modern ideas of well-being and African communitarian
philosophy to GPGs. These two concepts of human well-being and the need to govern GPGs are intrinsically linked to
the MDGs post 2015 and could help to make the MDGs truly inclusive.
The Executive Secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren.
Regarding the central question, Dutch development policy is facing a major challenge. The traditional approach focuses on providing aid and expertise in the poorest countries.
In the AIV’s view, many countries that have developed into MICs have sufficient governance and financial capacity to take on more responsibility. A first response to this is the oft-repeated call to stop providing such countries with aid. However, rather
than terminating development ties with MICs, the AIV argues for a different approach.
One reason for this is that the dividing line between low- and middle-income countries is very arbitrary. Countries that are just above the line are not always more developed
than those just below it. MICs also include a number of fragile states and countries in
conflict, where aid remains necessary. In addition, reaching deprived groups in MICs requires a constructive policy dialogue with these countries. Such a dialogue with middle-income countries offers benefits to all parties. For these countries the AIV recommends a shift from pure bilateral development policy to a policy of international cooperation, based more on multilateral cooperation and the civil society and private sector channels. The bilateral channel can continue to be of
great importance to low-income countries, though in light of rapid geopolitical changes it will need to be more flexible and less focused on rigid country choices, and where
possible the aid should be provided in cooperation with a number of large middle-income countries (trilateral). The AIV advises the Dutch government to take the lead in setting up a dialogue with other donors, large MICs and low-income countries on a trilateral approach of this kind.
Velden (COS). The secretariat comprised Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary).
Part A addresses the government’s question about lessons learned. The first chapter looks at the background to the MDGs and how they came about, and what they have achieved. The second chapter, in response to a number of the government’s
questions, examines whether the MDGs have proven to be a workable concept.
Chapter III discusses a large number of themes which many people consider to havebeen neglected or underexposed in the MDGs. Chapter IV looks at what the MDGs have meant for policy in developing countries and donor countries, while chapter V explores the options for after 2015, when the current MDG period expires.
Part B examines the government’s question about a new approach to development.
In chapter I, the AIV provides an outline of recent global developments that are relevant to development policy and the positioning of development goals after 2015.
In chapter II, the AIV looks at themes and challenges for development. Chapter III focuses on a number of neglected themes, while chapter IV outlines a conceptual
basis for global development. Lastly, chapter V explores new forms of global governance and the discussion on global public goods.
of development cooperation. The Advisory Council on International Affairs (AIV) considered a response to this report to be appropriate, in view of the current debate on development cooperation. Rather than give a comprehensive critique of the WRR report, the AIV has selected a number of its main themes. This advisory report was prepared by the following members of the Development Cooperation
Committee: Professor R. van der Hoeven (Chair), Dr B.S.M. Berendsen, Ms S. Borren, Dr L. Schulpen and Mr A. van der Velden. Contributions were provided by Professor
W.J.M. van Genugten (Human Rights Committee), Professor J.J.C. Voorhoeve and Lt. Gen. M.L.M. Urlings (retd) (Peace and Security Committee) and the other members of
the Development Cooperation Committee. The executive secretary was Ms D.E. van Norren (executive secretary of the Development Cooperation Committee), assisted
by Ms S.R. Airoldi (trainee).