THE HAGUE – Leiden University, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, and De Haagse Hogeschool have joined forces to launch a new post-academic course on Kingdom Affairs, designed to respond to the increasing interaction between the Caribbean and European parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. 

The program, officially titled "Leergang Koninkrijkszaken", will begin on October 31, 2025, and consists of 18 sessions. Caribbean participants have the option to follow the classes online. Tuition fees are €4,850 for participants from the European Netherlands and €2,450 for participants from the Caribbean. 

The course brings together scientific knowledge and real-world practice in Kingdom relations. Lectures will be delivered by leading experts from across the Kingdom, including former State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Alexandra van Huffelen, former MP Jorien Wuite, Dr. Glenn Thodé, Prof. Dr. Gert Oostindie, and Nelly Schotborgh. 

A Unique Learning Experience 

Initiated by Prof. Dr. Wouter Veenendaal, special professor of Kingdom Relations at Leiden University, and Drs. Marcel Daniëls, program coordinator of Kingdom Affairs at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, the program is built around six defining features: 

Kingdom-wide focus: Learn about and with one another 

Strong interaction with governments, institutions, and experts 

Multidisciplinary approach: Legal, administrative, economic, and social perspectives 

Varied locations: Classes held at both the university and applied sciences campuses 

Hybrid learning model for Caribbean participants 

Exclusive excursions to Kingdom institutions, offering behind-the-scenes insights 

What to Expect 

18 Friday afternoon sessions (1:00 PM to 5:00 PM) of intensive learning 

Lectures by top scholars and practitioners 

Final assignment: a group paper tackling a current issue in the Kingdom 

Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to: 

Understand the historical, political, and institutional developments within the Kingdom 

Analyze the differences and similarities between countries and public bodies 

Apply cultural and administrative insights in professional contexts 

Identify and address policy challenges within the Kingdom of the Netherlands 

This initiative marks a significant step in bridging knowledge and practice for professionals involved in Kingdom affairs, especially amid evolving relations between the Netherlands and its Caribbean partners.