International organizations in Geneva visited by Parliament Committee
On 31 May, the Committee on Foreign Policy of the Flemish Parliament visited several international organizations based in Geneva. General Representative to the United Nations, Kris Dierckx, organized and coordinated the visit.
The delegation visited three partner organizations of Flanders in Geneva; the World Health Organization (WHO), UNAIDS and the International Labour Organisation (ILO). After that, the delegation went to the Palace of the United Nations and was briefed on how the Human Rights Council functions. Each international organization zoomed in on its cooperation with Flanders. For example, Flanders is a major donor of the Special Programme on Human Reproduction (HRP), it represents Belgium on its board, and currently also holds the seat of Chairman of that board. UNAIDS expressed its appreciation for Flanders' support since its formation in 1996. 20 years down the road, Flanders is now the 18th governmental donor worldwide of this organization. This year, ILO and Flanders celebrate 25 years of cooperation. ILO expressed its appreciation and presented to the parliamentary delegation several projects Flanders supports, one of which is the new "Women at Work - Decent Work in Healthcare" initiative.
Representative Kris Dierckx: "Flanders is not only a sustainable and valued partner and donor in Geneva, among the staff of the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, there are also many talented Flemish people. Their commitment and expertise are greatly appreciated here. The same applies to the many trainees that start each year with Flemish subsidizing at the Geneva Institutions. The Commissioners were able to meet with thirty senior Flemish employees and trainees during the reception at the end of the mission. "
With this visit to Geneva, the Committee on Foreign Affairs wants to get a better understanding of how the Flemish representations abroad operate. During this five-day work visit, the committee members visit Warsaw, Geneva and Berlin.
Vlaams Parlement (only dutch)