Book Presentation and Discussion: Past Lessons and Future Pathways for International Development Cooperation

Past Lessons and Future Pathways for International Development Cooperation – 16 April 2026
Date & Time: Thursday, 16 April 2026, 15:30 – 17:00
Location: Atrium, International Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam

The International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) invites you to a special book presentation and discussion on the early days of Dutch international cooperation, based on Opheffers, the latest publication by Professor Wim van den Doel. As international cooperation faces new challenges, reflecting on its origins and lessons learned can guide future strategies for global development.

The event will explore:

• Past lessons: Professor van den Doel will present his book Opheffers: Nederlanders en het ontwikkelen van de wereld 1945–1963, examining the foundations of Dutch development cooperation. What motivated the Dutch government? What were the effects?
• Future pathways: A panel discussion will follow, moderated by Professor Dirk-Jan Koch, focusing on how insights from the past can inform the future of international development cooperation.

Programme:

• 15:30 – Welcome and opening by Professor Dirk-Jan Koch
• 15:35–16:00 – Past Lessons: Presentation by Professor Wim van den Doel
• 16:00–16:15 – Q&A with Professor van den Doel
• 16:15–16:45 – Future Pathways: Panel discussion with:Professor Dirk-Jan Koch – Network Professor of International Development Practices, ISS
  • Dr Anne-Lot Hoek – Dutch historian, researcher, and author
  • Dr Daphina Misiedjan – Assistant Professor in Human Rights and the Environment, ISS
• 16:45–17:00 – Q&A with panel
• 17:00 – Wrap-up and closing remarks
• 17:00–18:00 – Networking reception

This event is a joint initiative of the LDE Global network, ISS, and NICC, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on the past and discuss pathways for the future of international development cooperation.