I like working on the topic of food, because everyone has a relation with food. Food connects people—whether it’s about health, local farmers, or simply sharing a meal together, everything is interconnected.
Frank Mechielsen
Head of Feedback EU
Humans of the Hub
The Hague Humanity Hub is at the heart of a thriving community dedicated to strengthening peace and justice. That is what you read on our website, in our newsletter and on our socials. But who are the individuals behind the organisations? Behind the initiatives, the research, and the actions striving for a more just and peaceful world?
We are excited to relaunch Humans of the Hub, an interview series with community’s members!
Humans of the Hub takes you beyond the logos and formal titles to introduce you to the passionate people who form this unique community. It’s not just about the programs, projects, or institutions —it’s about the humans who dedicate themselves to the cause of peace and justice. Meet the humans who make this community.
Meet Frank Mechielsen from Feedback EU.
Why are you a member of the Hub?
We became a member in May 2024, because we wanted to be closer to a community of like-minded organizations focused on human rights and the environment. As an environmental organization dedicated to food justice and climate issues, we found the Hub’s service-oriented atmosphere and central location ideal.
It’s easy to invite people for meetings, and being in a space where unexpected yet valuable connections can be made with other organizations is incredibly beneficial.
What do you like most about your organization?
I like working on the topic of food, because everyone has a relation with food. Food connects people—whether it’s about health, local farmers, or simply sharing a meal together. Our work raises awareness about how our food choices affect communities worldwide.
For example, here in The Hague, in low-income area of Moerwijk, we started working on how the inhabitants perceive the food system. What are the problems they face in getting access to healthy food? What is the role of retailers? We aim to push for systemic changes that are better for both people and the planet.
What challenges do you face in your field of work?
A significant challenge is the need for long-term commitment from companies, governments, and the EU to drive the transition we advocate for. Current political climates often prioritize short-term interests, making it difficult to sustain momentum on issues like the Green Deal or SDGs.
Additionally, as a small NGO, securing long-term funding is crucial but challenging. Without it, we’re constantly occupied with fundraising instead of focusing on our mission. However, by demonstrating a clear path forward, we hope to attract the support necessary to continue our work effectively.
Encounter at the Hub
One of the most surprising encounters I had at The Hub was during Blue Drinks and Community Drinks events. I found myself in fascinating conversations with people from diverse backgrounds—India, Malaysia, the U.S.—all working in different fields like law and climate change.
One memorable discussion was about microbiomes and how they influence health, which offered a fresh perspective on our work. These unexpected exchanges are what I love about The Hub—it’s a place where you can present your ideas, meet people from various disciplines, and spark new, collaborative ideas.
The Hague
If you want to see The Hague from a unique perspective, I recommend taking a boat tour or going canoeing. It is a unique way to experience the city.
Another favorite of mine is Spinozahof, a beautiful garden where people from sixteen different nationalities come together to grow food, cook, and connect. It’s a ‘Groene verbindingsplek,’ or green connection spot, that truly embodies the spirit of community and sustainability. The garden is part of a broader network called ‘Ons eten,’ which is focused on raising awareness about the food system—something I’m also deeply involved with through the Haagse Voedselraad.
Feedback EU
Our planet is in danger. Agriculture and diets are depleting on soils, changing our climate and driving biodiversity loss to such an extent that our life-supporting ecosystems are now under threat. But it doesn’t have to be like this. We believe that securing nutritious, delicious food for all can and should go hand in hand with regenerating our planet. Join us to help transform the food system.
Feedback EU is an environmental organisation working to transform our food system. To do this, we challenge power, catalyse action and empower people to achieve positive change.
Learn more about Feedback EU here.