RIS321767 Bijlage SDG verslag gemeente Den Haag 2025 (EN)

Peace and justice Poverty and debt Climate neutral city

1. INTRODUCTION The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals agreed to by the United Nations in 2015. The goals are a roadmap to achieving a better and more sustainable future by 2030. The Netherlands has subscribed to this agenda. The commitment of local governments (cities and towns) is important to really achieve the goals. In this report you will read how The Hague is working towards the goals. We show the current situation, the ambition for the future, and the concrete efforts of the municipality of The Hague, local initiatives and international organizations. This shows how the entire city is working hard to achieve the goals. We cover three themes: peace and justice, poverty and debt, and climate neutral city. The SDGs covered in this report are goal 1 (No poverty), goal 3 (Good health and wellbeing), 7 (Affordable and clean energy), 9, (Industry, innovation and infrastructure), 10 (Reduce inequality), 11 (Sustainable cities and communities), 12 (Responsible production and consumption), 13 (Climate action) 16 (Peace, justice and public services), and 17 (Partnership). The municipality’s commitment to the three themes is broader than what is shown in this report. The Hague is a Global Goals municipality since 2019. This is a partnership of several Dutch cities and is coordinated by the Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG).

Since then, the municipality of The Hague has an SDG team and organises public activities. There is also a special website where initiatives and municipality projects are highlighted. Check out https://www.sdgsdenhaag.nl/en or email us at SDG@denhaag.nl.

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Sustainable Duurzame Development Doelen focus Goals op focus vrede on en peace recht, and klimaat, justice, en climate armoedebestrijding and poverty

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

Content

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2. SDG’s in the picture

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3. Peace and justice

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3.1 Promoting the rule of law

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3.2 Access to justice

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3.3 Social security, The Hague against violence

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3.4 Local democracy and participation

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4. Poverty and debt

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1. INTRODUCTION

4.1 Debts and justice

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4.2 Poverty and healthcare

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4.3 Financial services for all

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4.4 Climate and poverty

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5. Climate neutral city

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5.1 The Hague and the ambition to be climate neutral in 2030

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5.2 The Hague’s energy transition

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5.3 Sustainable mobility

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5.4 Circular economy

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5.5 Climate justice

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References:

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Annex 1: Total overview 17 Sustainable Development Goals

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

2. SDG’s in the picture The three themes of peace and justice, poverty and debt and climate neutral cities address a number of SDGs. Thus, we do not cover all 17 SDGs. A complete overview of all Sustainable Development Goals can be found in Annex 1 at the end of this report. SDG 16 stands for ending conflict and reducing violence. The goal is a peaceful and inclusive society. Legal systems at both national and international levels must be improved and institutions must be transparent. Arms trafficking, corruption and crime must be combated. SDG 17 is all about connection and emphasizes how important collaboration is in achieving the SDGs. Sustainable development requires cooperation and partnership among governments, businesses, residents and organizations. Cooperation in science, technology and innovation is paramount here, as is expanding knowledge and technologies. SDG 10 is about reducing inequality between and within countries. By 2030, everyone should have equal opportunities and social, economic and political inclusion of all should become the norm. SDG 10 also addresses discrimination and safe and responsible migration.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

SDG 1 is about ending poverty. Everyone has the right to a

SDG 7 focuses on ensuring affordable, reliable, sustainable

secure livelihood. Poverty has a negative impact on people’s

and modern energy for all. By 2030, we must use our energy

well-being. SDG 1 emphasizes the importance of a socioeco-

even more efficiently. International cooperation should

nomic safety net and good access to basic services.

ensure improved infrastructure and advances in research and technology for clean and renewable energy.

SDG 3 is all about promoting healthy living and prosperity

SDG 11 is about making cities and towns inclusive, safe, resil-

for all. This includes reducing mortality and suffering from

ient and sustainable. Everyone should be able to live well,

disease, but also access to affordable medicine for everyone.

healthy and sustainable lives and have access to basic

SDG 3 also focuses on reducing unhealthy lifestyles often

services and safe and affordable housing.

associated with poverty. SDG 9 is about building a resilient infrastructure, inclusive

SDG 13 calls for urgent action to combat climate change and

and sustainable industry and innovation.. Encouraging inno-

its impacts by reducing global warming. This can be done in

vation and sharing knowledge and technology can help

part by including climate-related measures in policies, but

address remedy environmental, economic and ecological

also by increasing knowledge about climate change.

challenges SDG 12 focuses on “producing more with less” and is about sustainable consumption and production. This means greatly reducing food waste and using raw materials more sustainably. The use of polluting energy sources should be reduced and throughout the entire production chain there should be better consideration of sustainability, waste reduction, and environmentally friendly waste management.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

3. Peace and justice The Hague is known as the International City of Peace and Justice. More than 500 international organizations are based in the city, including the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the International Criminal Court and Europol. Many NGOs, UN organizations and virtually all foreign embassies and consulates are located in The Hague. The Hague’s ambition to promote peace and justice also applies at the local level. That is why SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong public services) and SDG 17 (partnership) are important goals for The Hague. A lot is happening in The Hague. In this chapter, we cover promoting the (inter)national rule of law, access to justice, social security: The Hague against violence and local democracy and participation. In addition, we highlight a few local initiatives or projects.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

The Hague is also home to many NGOs, such as the Mukwege Foundation (of Nobel Peace Prize winner Mukwege who fights sexual violence as a war crime), Impunity Watch (works with victims of violence to address impunity), Justice & Peace (defends human rights activists through Shelter City) and the Helsinki Committee (which promotes human rights). The Hague is home to many knowledge institutions that train people to become future leaders. For example, Leiden University, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, The Hague Academy of International Law, the Asser Institute and Clingendael.

Ecosystem

3.1 Promoting the rule of law

All these organizations together form the ‘ecosystem’ of peace and law. This ‘ecosystem’ organizes many meetings and conferences that strengthen the

As the City of Peace and Justice, The Hague has the ambition to contribute to

international rule of law. The Municipality of The Hague has a team that

a peaceful and just world. The Hague does this by creating a favorable climate

actively works to promote the ecosystem of peace and law in The Hague. They

in which international organizations can establish themselves. In doing

ensure that all international organizations in The Hague can do their work

so, The Hague works toward Goal 16.3 promote the rule of law at the national

properly and stand up for their interests. They also welcome new organizations

and international levels.

to the city. An new organization that has settled in The Hague is Integrity Initiatives International (III). III wants to set up an anti-corruption court so that

The Hague is home to many international organizations, which contribute

kleptocrats do not go unpunished.

worldwide to the improvement of the rule of law, such as international courts and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The Court of Arbitration, the

The Hague seeks partners in other countries to work together on peace and

International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court resolve

justice. For example, in April 2024, the municipality connected with the Impact

conflicts between states and punish war criminals. Recently, the courts

Hub New York, a community of social enterprises working on the SDGs. Impact

have been dealing with conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan. Organizations

Hub New York has made a proposal to collaborate on a Global Innovation

such as the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW),

Exchange Series. With hubs from around the world, professionals can discuss

Europol, Eurojust and The International Commission on Missing Persons

topics that are highly relevant to The Hague; including access to justice, the

(ICMP), actively contribute to the security of residents worldwide and in the

SDGs, rising sea levels, circular economy and equality. This is an example of

Netherlands. Whether it is reducing the use of chemical weapons or catching

how The Hague contributes to Goal 17 international cooperation.

human traffickers and hackers, these organizations have a huge impact.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

3.2 Access to justice A major focus of The Hague is to guarantee equal access to justice for all. Access to justice is not a matter of course to everyone. Many people do not know where to go for help, especially when they need it the most. This is called the justice gap. As the city of peace and justice, The Hague considers it important to guarantee access to justice for city residents and for people in other countries. With this, The Hague is working towards Goal 16.3 guarantee equal access to justice for all.

For other countries The Hague Humanity Hub

Access to justice is an important starting point in helping people in developing

The Hague Humanity Hub supports and strengthens the ecosystem for

countries. Organizations such as The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law

a more peaceful and just world. They facilitate connections and innova-

(HiiL), International Development Law Organization (IDLO), and the Center for

tion by offering the necessary ingredients for chance encounters, new

International Legal Cooperation (CILC), all based in The Hague, do a lot of inno-

alliances, inspirational collaborations, and the exchange of knowledge.

vative work in this area. They provide support by training judges, prosecutors

The Hub is an inspiring place for knowledge and educational institu-

and lawyers, or by improving procedures. In addition, they develop experi-

tions, governments, NGOs, start-ups and international organizations to

mental legal solutions, something the legal system often fails to do.

work together. The Hague Humanity Hub was established with the help

For The Hague

of the municipality.

The Hague residents also encounter legal problems. These problems are often The Humanity Hub is an official SDG house. This means it is a central

related to the living environment or social contacts. The solutions to these

location for SDG events, businesses and meetings, and part of a larger

problems are complex. Formal legal procedures are often complicated and

network of SDG houses. Some examples of events at the Humanity Hub

expensive.

include: • Peace & Justice Café: Networking events to strengthen cooperation

The municipality of The Hague identifies residents who are in the justice gap

and connection between different sectors. Each café focuses on a

and ensures that they do not get stuck in it. There are institutions such as the

different topic.

municipal ombudsman, neighborhood judges and legal clinics that offer direct

• Fireside Peace Chats: informal gatherings where people can share

support. But their help is usually limited to offering knowledge and informa-

their experiences and stories about peace and conflict.

tion, without solving the individual cases.

• Just Peace: online platform with events, and stories about peace and justice for the general public.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

That is why the municipality has been working with The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL) on a project since 2020. Interviews, stakeholder studies and surveys (“Justice Needs Surveys”), were used to investigate the legal problems Hague residents have. 55% of residents have had one or more legal problems in recent years. A collaborative effort is underway to find an appropriate legal route for residents together with The Maatwerk en Regie program within the Robust Legal Protection System project and the Mariahoeve Robust Legal Protection System development project.

The municipality continues to explore how it can directly support residents with legal conflicts and problems, together with organizations from the city. Together with HiiL, an application was submitted to the National Growth Fund to fund a program to improve legal innovation. This focused on the most common legal problems: property conflicts, business conflicts, family conflicts, debt, common crime, and large-scale recovery such as after the Dutch child-

Working together on “access to justice”

care benefits scandal.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international organizations such as the World Justice Project, The Elders and Pathfinders for Justice have

The feedback from the National Growth Fund was that more parties should get

played a major role in specifying what “access to justice” means: that

involved to increase the chances of the application begin approved. The State

residents’ (legal) problems are actually resolved and that they can

Commission on the Rule of Law has recommended investing heavily in knowl-

“get on with their lives”. The focus is on people-centered justice. This

edge sharing and targeted innovation. Better, cheaper legal solutions that can

definition has also been used by the OECD (Organization for Economic

process more problems faster are very important. With this project, The Hague

Cooperation and Development). Here you can find a good overview of

is contributing to Goal 16.6 develop effective, accountable and transparent

this approach.

institutions.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

The District Judge The Hague municipality is committed to addressing legal conflicts in the neighborhood. The District Judge is an initiative of the municipality and the Court of The Hague. The District Judge handles problems or conflicts between neighbors, tenants and landlords, and between members of the Owners’ Association (VvE). Residents do not need to have any legal knowledge themselves to enter into the discussion, and the district judge ensures that laws and rules are applied correctly. It costs both parties €40.50 if one of the parties is private. This is much cheaper than an ordinary procedure.

Child and Youth Legal Advice Center Children and youth are a vulnerable group when it comes to accessing justice. Many young people do not know their rights and are not well

Ombudsman

informed.

To fairly resolve conflicts and problems between residents and the municipality, residents can contact the Ombudsman. This is an inde-

That is why the Child and Youth Legal Advice Center provides free legal

pendent institution that offers confidential and free help or answers

advice to children and young people up to 27 years of age. Young people

questions. The Ombudsman also reviews or monitors municipal poli-

can contact (anonymously) and drop by during consultation hours.

cies. In this way, it examines whether residents are treated fairly. Young

Guest lectures are also given at schools to explain to children and young

people who have a complaint about the municipality, youth care or

people what their rights are. Every year, the store receives more than

school, can contact the specialized Youth Ombudsman.

500 questions on various topics such as divorce from parents, problems with employers or the police, or about what rights you have as a consumer. Parents can also stop by for advice on their child’s rights.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

3.3 Social security, The Hague against violence

Additional efforts on domestic violence are also needed in the coming years, with specific attention being paid to gender-based violence, such as stalking

In order to achieve peace and justice, security in the municipality is of great

and intimate terror.

importance. The municipal security approach is enormously broad. This chapter explains two examples of these municipal efforts: reducing domestic

Several organizations in The Hague contribute to the approach to domestic

violence and reducing human trafficking. These topics are only a subset of

violence. In 2023, the subsidy scheme Prevention and Early Signaling Domestic

municipal security tasks, but they can be directly linked to SDG 5, SDG 8 and

Violence The Hague was established. Various organizations, such as founda-

SDG 16. SDG 5 calls for the elimination of all forms of violence against women

tion Vobis, can receive annual subsidies for various activities, such as orga-

and girls, SDG 8 recommends that states take action against modern slavery

nizing living room meetings, trainings and information sessions.

and child labor, and SDG 16 focuses on ending the abuse and exploitation of children. The municipality is one link in the chain to achieve this approach. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange with network partners in the region and with local initiatives, the approaches are strengthened and the city’s resilience grows.

The Hague Against Violence Against Women and Children The Hague has been working for years to prevent, detect and stop domestic violence and child abuse. The goal is to solve the violence permanently. To this end, the municipality of The Hague works together with various network partners such as Veilig Thuis Haaglanden, the police unit of The Hague, the Public Prosecution Service and various care partners/jeughul organizations. One spearhead of the joint effort is prevention and early signaling.

SHOP When violence occurs, interventions are made. To this end, the municipality

SHOP is based in The Hague and offers service and assistance to

invests in various interventions such as alarm buttons for victims of stalking

(former) sex workers, victims of human trafficking and others involved,

(Aware and Victim Device), the temporary restraining order and the multidis-

regardless of age, nationality, gender or religion. They provide informa-

ciplinary approach at the Care and Safety House (MDA++). In this approach,

tion, advice, psychosocial and practical help in a variety of languages.

network partners from criminal justice, healthcare and the social domain work

SHOP also offers shelters that can be accessed 24 hours a day. The goal is

with families involving severe, complex and recurrent domestic violence and/

to support clients so that they can regain control of their lives.

or child abuse to stop the violence.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

Reducing human trafficking and exploitation

The commitment is bundled in the Human Trafficking Action Program. Based

The Hague approach to human trafficking focuses on the most common forms

on the evaluation of the 2020-2023 program, a new Human Trafficking

of exploitation: sexual exploitation, labor exploitation and criminal exploita-

Action Plan 2025-2028 was sent to the Hague City Council for approval in

tion and has the ambition that human trafficking does not occur in The Hague:

February 2025. The municipality of The Hague prepared this action plan

a city without exploitation. This objective is based on the pillars: prevention,

together with chain partners in both the healthcare and safety domain, such

control, protection and cooperation. This results in actions in many areas, from

as police, the Public Prosecutor’s Office and SHOP (Stichting Hulpverlening

preventing human trafficking through prevention and education, to providing

Opvang Prostituees/Foundation for Assistance and Shelter for Prostitutes).

shelter for victims and combating it through raising barriers.

By preventing exploitation and illegal trafficking, the city is working towards goal 10.3 Ensure equal opportunities and eliminate inequalities.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

3.4 Local democracy and participation

The municipality wants to improve outreach and contact to increase participation and to better inform residents. Involving residents is central to the

Goal 16.7 is about: ensuring responsive, inclusive, participatory and represen-

creation of new municipal projects and programs. For example, the “Robust

tative decision-making at all levels. The Hague is working on this in various

Legal Protection System” project, (mentioned in the previous chapter) or the

ways.

“Nobody Deserves Money Concerns” campaign. More on this campaign in the next chapter.

Participation of residents For questions, complaints or help, residents often go to the municipality first.

In addition, The Hague supports many local initiatives and community centers

Good service, and involvement of residents (participation) is therefore very

that give residents the opportunity to participate in their neighborhoods and

important. In 2023, about two-thirds of residents in The Hague have had

that increase community cohesion. In doing so, The Hague contributes to Goal

contact with the municipality. Often this contact is digital. Many residents feel

11.3 inclusive and sustainable urban development and building capacity for

that the municipality already helps them well with questions, digital support

participation.

or other help. On average, satisfaction with contact with the municipality scored a 7 out of 10.

City Panel Since 2019, a survey has been conducted every year on how residents perceive

The City Panel consists of more than 5,000 residents who give their

developments in the city and how they participate. Although more and more

opinions via online questionnaires on a variety of topics, such as street

residents (61% in 2023) feel that they can participate and actively talk and

harassment, discrimination or perceptions of neighborhood safety.

think about plans in the neighborhood, the feeling of being able to participate

The municipality’s public services are also tested through the panel.

in the plans for the city as a whole is generally low (33% in 2023). Many resi-

Afterwards, the results are incorporated into policy choices and fed

dents are still unsure what resources, projects and parties they can use to get

back to the participants. The City Panel is a good example of partici-

involved.

pation and how residents are included in municipal decision-making. It contributes to goal 16.7 ensure inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

Accessible polling stations For a functioning democracy, it is important that as many people as possible vote. Therefore, the municipality makes polling stations in The Hague as accessible as possible, which contributes to Goal 10.2 enable and promote the political inclusion of all, and Goal 16.10 protection of fundamental freedoms. Turnout in The Hague municipal elections between 2002 and 2018was on average 49%, but it was only 43% in 2022. It is unclear whether this is because people do not want to, cannot or by chance do not vote. In October 2024, therefore, the “Action Plan for Promoting Turnout in Municipal Elections” was drawn up. To give everyone a chance to vote independently, the municipality is making sure that almost all polling stations are accessible to people with mobility problems. Ramps are installed where necessary. The ambition is to make 100% of polling stations accessible. The municipality is working on this with interest groups such as Voorall and the Eye Association. The Hague is the first Dutch municipality to have polling stations with special voting molds and audio support for people with visual impairments. These polling stations also have guide lines and drinking water bowls for guide dogs. In the election newspaper and on the website it is stated which facilities are available at which polling station.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

4. Poverty and debt The Hague is committed to ending poverty and equal rights for all. Everyone has the right to livelihood security. Poverty has a negative impact on people’s health and well-being.

The difference in healthy life years between residents living above or below the poverty line is as much as 14 years. In The Hague, about 20% of households live below the poverty line. This is comparable to other large cities in the Netherlands. The municipality works to provide a fair social safety net and takes into account diverse groups of residents and vulnerable residents. This contributes to SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 10 (reduce inequality), SDG 16 (peace and justice) and SDG 7 (affordable and sustainable energy). In this chapter, we address debt and justice, poverty and care, financial services for all, and climate and poverty. We also highlight a few local initiatives or projects.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

4.1 Debts and justice Almost one in seven households in the city has problematic debts. The Hague is committed to helping residents with debt problems as early as possible. The goal is to make debt manageable, resolve it and prevent it where possible. In doing so, The Hague is working toward Goal 1.2 reduce by at least half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty according to national definitions, and Goal 10.4 to implement policies that progressively lead to greater equality, particularly in taxation, wages and social protection.

Preventive care through Money Matters Help Desk Money Matters Helpdesk The Hague, a municipal initiative, helps people stabilize their money matters free of charge. In this way they ensure that people do not go into debt in the first place. Helpdesk offers advice on paying off debts early, gaining insight into income and expenses, and payment arrangements and benefits. The Money Matters Helpdesk offers a listening ear and accessible conversations. They have more than 30 locations throughout the city.

‘No one deserves money worries’ The municipality launched the “No one deserves money worries” campaign to get more people to use the mini schemes. Posters, brochures and flyers allow the municipality to communicate more directly and increase the use of the schemes. Residents are involved in developing the message from the beginning. Through this participation, the campaign can be adapted to their needs. The communication concept can also be used to publicize other schemes around money and debt issues. This contributes to goal 16.10 ensure public access to information.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

Schuldenlab070

SchuldZero

Schuldenlab070 works toward a debt-free The Hague and was

Adolescents and young adults cannot always find the help

founded by the municipality. Together with residents, they look at what is

that is available. SchuldZero, a collaboration between

needed and offer pilot projects (pilots) based on residents’ ideas. Where

Centrum16-22, 125Procent and JIP Haaglanden, is committed

possible, they work together with private parties and local initiatives. Below

to debt prevention among young people. SchuldZero makes it

are 3 pilots as examples.

easier for young people to find help from the municipality and other organizations. It is a network where young people can find and help each other. Young

• The “Debt-Free Back into Society” pilot combines debt assistance and proba-

people from SchuldZero guide others and give advice on handling money

tion. Probation clients and ex-prisoners often have problematic debts and

wisely. The goal is to prevent financial problems.

other obstacles. The municipality of The Hague works together with the probation service to provide prompt counseling, identify debts and, where possible, pay them off with municipal rehabilitation credit. This increases the chances of successful reintegration and participation in society. The evaluation of this pilot showed that it works even better to start debt assistance already during detention, so that the debt burden does not increase during detention and detainees can come out of detention debt-free. This led to the “Debt free out of detention” pilot. • The “Youth Perspective Fund” (JPF) helps young people who have gotten into trouble because of debt. These young people often do not know what their rights and options are. Through debt restructuring and creating a future plan, they can work on their future without stress. This is done under supervision and with an agreed upon quid pro quo at school, work or internship. Due to the success of the pilot, the JPF has now been expanded nationwide from The Hague. • The collaborative project “Debt and Women’s Shelters” of Perspektief Foundation, Institute for Public Values and the municipality focuses on debt problems of women who have entered shelters due to acute threats. By removing concerns about debt, women in shelter can focus on the future.

With this project, Schuldenlab070 aims to identify the needs and problems of the women. 18

Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

Schuldhulpmaatje The trained volunteers (buddies) of SchuldHulpMaatje guide and support people with financial problems. The buddies have a coaching role and strive to make people financially self-reliant. Debts can be bad for your mental health. They can lead to depression, shame, social isolation and hopelessness. In such a situation, it is difficult to face the debts and take action. Personal attention is crucial here. People in debt need not only money, but also support and guidance in managing their finances. SchuldHulpMaatje volunteers often play an important role in a successful debt relief process.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

edly high healthcare costs and thus getting into financial trouble. In addition to this insurance with broad coverage, a so-called “compact package” is available for people with low care needs. This variant is cheaper, but it does not include the deductible and there is no contribution from the municipality. About 48,000 residents of The Hague make use of the Hague Health Insurance.

Contribution for chronically ill and disabled In addition to the Hague Health Insurance, the Hague municipality has also

4.2 Poverty and healthcare

created the Chronically Sick and Disabled Contribution (CZG). The CZG provides support to residents who suffer from a long-term or chronic illness, or have

People living in poverty often have health problems, both physical and mental,

a disability. The allowance currently amounts to 125 euros per year and is

and these problems in turn increase the likelihood of poverty. This creates

intended to cover extra costs related to the illness or disability that are not

a vicious circle. The Hague has therefore linked poverty policy with health

covered by insurance (or can be reimbursed in another way).

policy. With the Hague Health Insurance and the Chronically Ill and Disabled Contribution, the municipality wants to keep good and affordable care available for all residents of The Hague. Thus, the municipality works on goal

Ooievaarspas

1.4 ensure that all men and women, especially the poor and vulnerable, have

The Ooievaarspas gives people with a low income the

equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to basic services, and goal

opportunity to participate in sports, cultural and recre-

3.8 ensure universal health coverage, with protection against financial risk.

ational activities at a discount. Ooievaarspas holders can participate in activities with a minimum 50% discount

The Hague Health Insurance

at more than 600 partners in The Hague and the region.

Having good health insurance is

With the Ooievaarspas AOW’ers can use public trans-

essential, especially for people living

port for free and families can benefit from child package schemes of

in poverty. Because the municipality

Stichting Leergeld. Ooievaarspas holders are also eligible for The Hague

wants to prevent people living

Health Insurance and discounts on school supplies. An overview of all

in poverty from having no or less

Ooievaarspas opportunities can be found on the municipality’s website:

access to healthcare, The Hague

Overview of Stork Schemes–The Hague.

offers the Hague Health Insurance for Minima. This insurance is available to residents whose income is up to 150% of the social minimum. They receive a premium contribution from the municipality. The amount of this contribution depends on the exact income. In addition, the co-payment and deductible are also co-insured. This prevents users of the insurance from incurring unexpect-

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

The Hague Prevention Approach

resources, and goal 10.2 enable and promote the social, economic and political

Poverty often continues for generations. Breaking that pattern requires

inclusion of all.

an integrated approach that looks at a person’s total situation. The Hague Prevention Approach is innovative because it not only looks at individual

Street Consulate

problems, but also at for example neighborhood characteristics, family situ-

Homelessness and poverty often go hand in hand. Many people who have

ation and stage of life. The municipality does this together with community

become homeless have lost control of their financial situation. In addition,

centers, schools, (financial) aid providers and care providers. With the Hague

homelessness is also associated with health and safety problems. Although

Prevention Approach, the municipality wants to work towards equal oppor-

the municipality informs and helps people who have become or are at risk of

tunities for everyone when it comes to good health, social security and youth

becoming homeless through its own schemes such as the Homeless Counter,

care. Where you are born should not determine your chances in life.

the Street Consulate helps on many more fronts.

Residents play a central role, so that help and support are in line with local

The Street Consulate is an organization dedicated to helping homeless

needs and existing facilities. Through direct participation, the municipality

people in The Hague. The Street Consulate has walk-in clinics, helps find

looks at what is really needed locally, also called ‘community-up’. This aligns

essential institutions and has developed a guidebook. They also do advocacy

with Goal 10.3 ensure equal opportunities and reduce inequalities by

by networking, lobbying and having conversations with municipalities and

promoting appropriate policies and actions.

aid agencies. The support is free and is done together with people who have experience homelessness themselves.

4.3 Financial services for all Budgetcoaching with Humentum The municipality should be able to provide information, support and services

When a person’s financial situation is no longer

to all residents. The assistance offered by the municipality must be easy to find

completely under control, there are a number of

and understand. This means that services must also be available to residents

foundations and organizations in The Hague that can provide support

with (mild) intellectual disabilities and residents who have difficulty reading,

or assistance. One of these foundations is Humentum. Humentum

writing and/or arithmetic, among others. This is especially important for resi-

helps residents with questions and problems regarding financial

dents with money problems. That is why the municipality is trying to organize

administration or (tax) benefits in various languages. The volunteers

the available support in a way that it is low-threshold and accessible, with as

of the foundation are able to provide customized assistance through

little bureaucracy as possible. The municipality also looks at how residents

keeping in mind the person’s culture and pace. This assistance to help

experience the services provided and what the effect of the help has been.

residents get their finances in order is called Budget Coaching.

With feedback from residents, the municipality wants to improve her services. In doing so, the municipality works toward goal 1.4 ensure that all men and women, especially the poor and vulnerable, have equal rights to economic

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

Café Straat Bakkie Since May 2023, the Street Consulate is housed at Torenstraat 25a. On the ground floor is the Café Straat Bakkie, which is run by people who have encountered homelessness. At the café, people can buy a “deferred coffee”. This is a cup of coffee you can buy to leave behind for another person who cannot afford it.

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4.4 Climate and poverty The municipality supports residents to make their homes more sustainable. Residents who can no longer afford the rising energy prices are also helped to consume less or use money-saving means in a smart way. Thus, the municipality contributes to Goal 7.1 ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services.

Support measures A high energy bill can have many causes. Some people have a poorly insulated house, others use a lot of energy or use it inefficiently (outdated appliances or behavior). If residents cannot pay the energy bill themselves, The Hague provides special assistance. People with low income, little assets or special expenses such as alimony are eligible for the special assistance.

Hou van je Huis Residents can also be helped to save money and energy by talking to an energy

‘Hou van je Huis’ is a municipality initiative. It provide free tailored

coach. These coaches conduct home visits in coordination when a resident

advice on sustainable maintenance, insulation and energy saving. They

applies for special assistance. Also, residents with a Stork Pass can receive a

also help with subsidies, quotations or through technical workshops,

voucher that provides a discount to replace outdated white goods (refrigerator,

walk-in locations and phone service.

washing machine, stove, etc) with a more durable appliance. Also, anyone can request an energy scan free of charge. This scan lists possible measures people

The Municipality of The Hague works together with companies to offer

can take to make their homes more sustainable. Think for example of insula-

these services. By doing this for free, we try to lower the threshold for

tion, double glazing or solar panels.

our residents to make their own homes more sustainable. With the Direct Bespaar action from Hou van je Huis, people can get help to have a number of small measures carried out, such as installing LED lighting or light insulation (draft strips). A list of free actions, advice and meetings can be found at Pak nu je voordeel! – Duurzame stad Den Haag.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

5. Climate neutral city The Hague’s ambition is to be climate neutral by 2030. To bring this ambition closer, the municipality is working with different parties in the city but also with Europe.

For years, The Hague has had the ambition to be climate neutral by 2030. We try to bring this ambition closer by working together with the city, but also with other organizations and governments. For example, the municipality of The Hague is part of 100CNSC and we work together with the European Commission. In addition, the municipality has developed a 2024 Hague Climate Agreement with more than 115 parties in the city. Beyond these networks and the Climate Accord, the municipality is working on climate in many other ways. These efforts contribute to many goals such as using affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), creating sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), climate action (SDG 13), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and sustainable industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9). This chapter covers energy transition, mobility, circular economy, sustainable living environment and climate justice.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

5.1 The Hague and the ambition to be climate neutral in 2030

Sustainable Environment A sustainable The Hague also needs to include a sustainable living environment, for now and in the future. This means that everyone in The Hague has the right to a future-proof, safe and healthy place to live, work and relax.

Sustainability is a broad concept. The Hague municipality focuses on a number

The municipality and local parties are working hard to make the city climate

of themes: energy transition, sustainable mobility, circular economy and a

neutral and resilient to the effects of climate change, such as heat stress and

sustainable living environment. For each of these 4 topics, the municipality

flooding. One of the ways in which the municipality does this is by providing

has created a work agenda detailing how the municipality is working on the

subsidies for climate adaptation and by making stone- and concrete heavy

goals within these topics. With this, The Hague contributes to SDG 13.2 inte-

neighborhoods greener. This is because more greenery makes the city more

grate climate change measures into policies, strategies and planning, and Goal

resistant to problems caused by extreme weather. This contributes to Goal

11.6 reduce cities’ per capita adverse environmental impact.

13.1 Strengthen resilience and adaptability. The theme of sustainable living environment is reflected in all the themes below.

The 100CNSC The Climate Agreement is also a contribution to the “100 Climate Neutral and Smart Cities,” or 100CNSC, a mission of the European Commission. 100CNSC aims to have at least 100 climate neutral and smart cities in the EU by 2030. The mission addresses several topics that are also in the Hague Climate Agreement (improving energy systems, green living environment, circular economy, green industry, biobased solutions , mobility and transportation). In October 2024, The Hague was the first Dutch city to receive the EU Mission Label of the 100CNSC. This not only shows that the city is well on its way in implementing the Climate City Contract, but also that The Hague serves as an example to other cities. The Climate City Contract (CCC) is a tool to help cities achieve climate neutrality by 2030.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

The Urban Waterbuffer

Operation Steenbreek

A great example of how The Hague is contributing to a smart sustain-

To make The Hague greener together with residents, ‘Operation

able living environment at the local level is the Urban Water Buffer in

Steenbreek’ (Stone breaking) is organized every year. Everyone can

the Cromvlietpark. For years, the Cromvlietpark in The Hague was an

exchange tiles from their garden, frontage or shared courtyard for

old area consisting of asphalt, fences and wide sidewalks. The square no

plants free of charge. Fewer tiles means that water on the street can

longer met the needs of the neighborhood and was in urgent need of

flow away better and more plants ensure cooling and a healthy, future-

renewal.

proof living environment.

The new Cromvliet Park has many amenities and functions that make

During the Dutch ‘Tile Swapping’ championship, another word for

the neighborhood more livable and sustainable. The park has 2,000 m²

stone breaking, The Hague even became champion in 2021 and 2022

of additional green space, which helps against heat stress and improves

by removing the most tiles from the ground! Would you also like to

air quality.

participate? You can read more information on the Duurzaam Den Haag website.

One of the most innovative and special elements of the Cromvlietpark is the Urban Water Buffer. This water buffer is very important for neighborhood water management, especially with the increasing effects of climate change. The Urban Waterbuffer allows rainwater and surface water to be collected and stored underground. The roofs of surrounding buildings are also connected to this water buffer. The water flows to a central point and is then filtered through a biofilter consisting of special plants and sand layers. This ensures that the water is clean and suitable for storage. During a drought, the stored water can be pumped to water trees, vegetable garden and the petting zoo. The Urban Water Buffer is an example of how The Hague contributes to Goal 11.7 provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces.

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

5.2 The Hague’s energy transition To become climate neutral, The Hague is moving away from natural gas. The city is switching to heat sources such as heat pumps and ambient heat, deep geothermal heat and residual heat from the Port of Rotterdam. In addition, the goal is to provide 10,000 homes with an energy-efficient label (A, B or C) every year until 2030. This will also require less energy to be generated. In doing so, the municipality contributes to Goal 11.6 reduce the adverse environmental impact of cities per capita. Between 2018 and 2022, The Hague has reduced CO2 emissions by 27% (approximately 535,000 tons of CO2). The reduction mainly took place through the transition of businesses and institutions. Improved insulation of buildings

Living Lab Scheveningen

and the commissioning of the first deep geothermal heat source have reduced

The Hague functions as a testing ground for innovative energy solu-

natural gas consumption. Emissions from homes have also decreased. This

tions. The municipality works together with knowledge institutions,

decrease still fluctuates, however, because the price of natural gas has a great

companies and other partners to test new technologies and methods

influence on residents’ heating behavior.

that can accelerate the energy transition. Living Lab Scheveningen (LLS) is one such testing ground on Scheveningen’s boulevard. Here, digital

Help with becoming sustainable

innovations are experimented with through small research projects

The municipality has several ways to inform and help residents and institu-

called “use cases”.

tions to become more sustainable. Examples include the Digital Pointer to save

One of these use cases is energy justice. Startups were asked to find

energy, rent allowance to help with rising energy prices, or the sustainability

solutions for making homes of low-income tenants more sustainable.

fund for owners’ associations. Duurzaam Den Haag works together with the

Eight companies made initial submissions. The winner will receive

municipality to make neighborhoods completely energy neutral. Duurzaam

funding to implement a pilot project. This will be done in collaboration

Den Haag (‘Sustainable The Hague’) is an independent foundation that brings

with the municipality’s Energy Transition team.

together government, residents, initiatives and organizations. Duurzaam Den Haag believes that everyone in The Hague should be able to contribute to sustainability and take responsibility. Duurzaam Den Haag deploys energy coaches and organizes various informative and supporting events with neighborhood teams and energy cooperatives. This way, residents can find out more about their sustainability options through various routes (via the municipality and via each other).

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

In the city, there are many neighborhood initiatives or neighborhood organiza-

(the roof program) wants to use the roof space on buildings in the city for solar

tions working on energy transition, such as De Groene Regentes (in Segbroek)

panels, more greenery or sports facilities, for example. By generating energy,

or Vogelwijk Energie(k). These initiatives do projects for energy conservation

collecting rainwater, or creating a roof garden that contributes to biodiversity

and generation, transportation and more greenery in the neighborhood. They

and combats heat stress, the roofs can be used to make the city more sustain-

help their neighbors directly and inform them about the possibilities available

able. Not all roofs are suitable for modifications, however, and sometimes

to them in their own energy transition efforts.

multiple parties share a roof. Therefore, good cooperation is important. The municipality therefore brings together local residents, organizations and

The Roofteam

energy cooperatives. Even residents without suitable roofs can therefore invest

In The Hague, space is limited and this poses a problem. However, there is still

in green energy.

a sea of space to be gained on roofs. The municipality’s “Programma Daken”

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

5.3 Sustainable mobility

Smart charging plaza The Hague Climate Agreement includes a ‘Smart Charging Plaza’ in the

The Hague wants to change traffic in the city and make it more sustainable.

Vruchtenbuurt neighborhood. The cooperatives Sterk op Stroom and

Making mobility more sustainable is one of the themes of the 100CNSC

Vruchtenbuurt DEElt want to develop a smart charging plaza for electric shared

mission of the sustainable mobility work agenda. Efforts are being made to

cars in the Vruchtenbuurt. We are exploring how locally generated energy can

reduce traffic, change travel behavior and use cleaner modes of transportation

be stored and used to charge electric cars. The charging plaza can contribute to

such as biking, walking and public transportation. This contributes to Goal

fewer cars in the neighborhood and more efficient use of the power grid.

11.2 provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transportation systems for all, particularly by expanding public transportation.

Zero Emission Zone In addition to the existing environmental zone for passenger cars, vans, trucks and buses (touringcars) that run on diesel, a zero-emission zone for vans and trucks in the city center went into effect on January 1, 2025. To make the transition feasible for entrepreneurs, the zero-emission zone has nationally agreed transitional regulations, exemptions and exemptions that apply to all zero-emission zones in the Netherlands. On January 1 2026, the zero-emission zone in the city center will be extended toward the coast.

Car Sharing Car sharing is easy and sustainable. Sharing cars are used in neighborhoods, and everyone can use them. In The Hague, a number of resident groups are

The Hague Bikes!

actively using shared cars. There are many advantages to using shared cars.

“The Hague Bikes!” (“Den Haag Fietst!’) is an initiative of

An important advantage is that shared cars save parking space on the street.

the municipality in cooperation with bike shops and bike

For example, there is more parking space for bicycles or greenery. Through

experts in the city, which encourages residents to use

the Residents’ Platform Shared Transport, a large number of car sharing

bicycles more often. After all, cycling is an affordable, environmentally

groups are working with the Sustainable THe Hague Foundation (Duurzaam

friendly and healthy way to get around the city. Moreover, it contributes

Den Haag) and the municipality to increase the number of existing car sharing

to the livability and accessibility of The Hague.

groups and start up new ones. The bicycle ambassadors of “Den Haag Fietst!” help with this by giving bicycle lessons, for example.

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Public Transportaion corridors

region, The Hague is also exploring a Southwest land corridor (via Zoetermeer,

Public transportation (OV) is the sustainable basis for travel within and

Leidschendam-Voorburg, the center of The Hague, The Hague Southwest and

between cities, both locally and internationally. That is why the municipality is

Westland, up to Maassluis/Schiedam) and improving the “Old Line” (between

investing in this sustainable form of transport in the coming years. The munic-

Leiden, The Hague, Rotterdam and Dordrecht The possibility of opening new

ipality is working on three “OV-corridors” (OV-Next). OV-corridors are transport

stations, modifying tracks, and running more frequent trains are being exam-

links that ensure that travelers can travel directly and comfortably by public

ined. This is a good example of how The Hague is working towards goal 9.1

transport. Regional cooperation is important because the corridors bridge the

develop qualitative, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, especially

borders of several municipalities. The Hague aims to have constructed the

regional and cross-border infrastructure.

first part of the Konings Corridor (between districts of The Hague, Rijswijk and Zoetermeer) in the Binckhorst by 2030. Together with other partners in the

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Sustainable Development Goals focus on peace and justice, climate and poverty

5.4 Circular economy Circular economy is about reusing and repairing things and products, reducing waste. The Municipality of The Hague is following the national goal of halving raw material use by 2030. This can lead to a CO2 reduction of about 15% in the city. In addition the ambition is to make its own organization circular, raise awareness and participation, accelerate the resource transition and promote circular entrepreneurship. A circular economy thus contributes to SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), SDG12 (responsible consumption and production) and to and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It also contributes to

Reducing e-waste

the ambition of the 100CNSC.

E-waste is one of the largest waste streams in the world. E6 is a major

Reducing waste

European INTERREG project that aims to promote local collaborations to

In 2024, the municipality of The Hague launched an anti-waste campaign

extend the life of electrical and electronic appliances. A consortium from

in cooperation with local businesses. This campaign emphasizes reusing

northwest Europe is investigating what is needed to change the norm in

and repairing clothes. For example, the municipality provides practical tips

consumer electronics. The municipality of The Hague is part of this interna-

and makes it easier to find repair stores, studios and stores selling second-

tional network. This project encourages longer use, reuse, repair and refurbish-

hand clothing. Everyone can use the map on Duurzamestad Den Haag for this

ment of appliances. Consumers should choose repair more often instead of

purpose. In this way, the municipality is trying to reduce the amount of textile

replacement to make the transition to a circular economy. Longer product life

waste. The municipality also helps to reduce waste in other ways. Residents

is better for the environment and future generations, as it reduces the need

can apply to the municipality for a ‘Spullenbak’. This bin can be filled with

for new materials, transportation and energy. The partners are working on

items or materials that are no longer used. When the bin is full, it will be

business models, data platforms, collection and awareness campaigns. E6 also

collected and the items go to local businesses. They make new items from the

focuses on influencing policy to encourage politicians and manufacturers

waste. The city also provides collection points for electronic waste. In doing so,

to design products more sustainably and use them longer. The efforts of E6

the city is working toward goal 12.8 ensure that people have relevant informa-

contributes to Goal 12.6 encourage large (international) organizations to

tion and are aware of sustainable development and lifestyles, and toward goal

become more sustainable.

12.5 reduce waste through prevention, recycling and reuse. A more comprehensive overview with examples of municipal, international and local efforts can be found in the circular economy work agenda.

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A second life for textiles SWAPS The Hague is a clothing store that not only sells second-hand women’s clothing, but where you can also swap your own clothes for “new” items from the store. With this concept SWAPS offers an alternative to the polluting fast fashion trend and contributes to sustainable consumption and production. Old and discarded textiles are disposed of by i-did. I-did recycles old textiles into felt and turns them into bags,

Dining sustainably

interior decorations and accessories. In this way, i-did

Several initiatives in The Hague are combatting food

prevents the textile from being burned. Together with the

waste. For example, Conscious Kitchen cooks meals

MadeBlue foundation, i-did calculates how many liters of

from food from the market that would otherwise be

water they save per kilo of ‘saved’ textile. The liters saved

thrown away. The weekly dinners represent togetherness,

are donated to water projects abroad. I-did also supports

conscious living and sustainability. Each meal is vegan.

people who have been out of a job for a long time to

In doing so, Conscious Kitchen contributes to Goal 12.3,

get back to work and participate in society. This is done

reducing food waste among vendors, consumers and the

through coaching and guidance on the shop floor of the

production/supply chain,.

recycling plant.

Should you prefer to cook for yourself, you can pick up a fair and local vegetable package at Lekkernassûh’s sustainable fresh market. Lekkernassûh is a community of people working with local suppliers. The regional collaboration combines the transportation of produce from other farmers. As a result, the carbon footprint of transportation is low.

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5.5 Climate justice Climate justice is a broad term. It means that some people are hit harder

Cooperation

by climate change than others. Climate change especially affects people with

SDG 17 emphasizes the importance of partnership and cooperation for inter-

small wallets: people with low incomes can no longer pay high energy bills,

national progress on climate, peace and justice. The Hague therefore facilitates

poorly insulated houses are plagued by mold, and sustainable/organic prod-

forums and meetings for knowledge exchange between international experts,

ucts are often expensive. As an international city of peace and justice, we take

policymakers, NGOs, educational institutions and diplomats.

our responsibility on this issue seriously and continue to work to apply and promote climate justice. Below are a few examples of how climate justice is

Since 2015, The Hague has organized the Round Table on Climate and Security

being worked on in The Hague.

twice a year. The 16th edition took place in 2024, with a focus on climate action and law enforcement. This helps improve legal systems and develop risk

Obligations of states

avoidance strategies.

At the request of the UN General Assembly, the International Court of Justice in The Hague will advise on countries’ climate commitments. Failure to meet

2024 also hosted the third Environmental Peacebuilding Conference. Through

a climate commitment can mean, for example, that a country is not complying

the dialogue series “The Hague Conversations on Climate, Peace and Security,”

with its National, European or other international rules. In 2024, the European

educational and research institutions and civil society organizations are