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The Netherlands
Peace Palace
The EHL Site
The Peace Palace in The Hague, with its foundational stone laid in 1907, epitomizes the quest for world peace. As the seat of the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and The Hague Academy of International Law, the Palace serves as a global emblem of law and justice. Endowed with the European Heritage Label (EHL) in 2013, it stands as a beacon reflecting European values and its significant role in history, attracting thousands of visitors and learners to its doors annually. Its library, one of the most extensive international law collections, supports scholars and practitioners worldwide. The Palace’s art and architecture embody the peace ideal in every detail, further underscoring its mission of ‘Peace through Law’.
European dimension
The Peace Palace’s connection to European integration and the promotion of EU values is marked by its EHL status, symbolizing European ideals and hosting educational activities, especially for youth. The label, recognizing the Palace as an important place of remembrance, accentuates its commitment to the European project. Through regular meetings with EHL site managers and participation in European Commission conferences, the Peace Palace contributes to shaping a collective European cultural heritage. In fostering dialogue and judicial resolution of conflicts, the Palace aligns with the EU’s emphasis on peace, democracy, and human rights.
The organization
The Carnegie Foundation is the steward of the Peace Palace, responsible for its upkeep and the administration of its activities. Established with a donation from Andrew Carnegie, the Foundation ensures the Palace’s position as a venue for significant legal and diplomatic gatherings. With a staff of dedicated professionals and the support of partners like the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foundation orchestrates the maintenance and development of the Palace while facilitating the vital work of the courts and academy housed within. Additionally, the Foundation embraces the digital era, making its resources widely accessible online and advancing the educational mission of the Peace Palace.