Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

Since the installation of the CDA-VVD government, there have been significant changes in the foreign policy of the Netherlands concerning the relationship with Latin America. The main focus is now on economic development and improving economic relations. Over the past years, most of the Latin American countries have seen impressive economic growth. In the same period this region has demonstrated considerable democratic growth. Both the Dutch government and NIMD facilitate the further democratisation of various countries in Latin America.

The current situation gives rise to questions such as:
How does the new foreign policy of the Netherlands relate to the economic and democratic developments of these countries in Latin America?
What are the main factors behind the growth of this region and what are the economic prospects?
These prospects will be analysed from both the Latin American and the European perspective.

From this debate we expect an enhanced understanding on the connection between economic development and democratisation processes in the Andean region and a clear understanding of the possibilities and challenges that arise with this connection.

• 09.30 – Arrival, coffee and tea
• 10.00 – Opening and welcome by Hans Bruning, Executive Director of NIMD
• 10.10 – Commencement of the debate, introduction of the speakers
• 10.15 – Miguel Calahorrano Camino – Ecuadorian Ambassador to the Netherlands
• 10.30 – Pieter van Geel, vice-president of the CDA board, former CDA party leader
• 10.45 – Gerald Baal, co-founder and CEO of TRANSFER Latin Business Consultancy
• 11.00 – Questions and public discussion
• 11.20 – Conclusion by Dr. Rosalba Icaza, Lecturer in Governance and International Political Economy at ISS
• 11.30 – Coffee and tea
• 12.00 – End of the debate

If you would like to attend the debate, please confirm your attendance by sending an email to teunheuvelink@nimd.org.