A JOURNEY OF GROWTH AND DISCOVERY IN THE NETHERLANDS

B3 Saya MIYOSHI

Last month, we went to the Netherlands for a fieldwork program with a Fujii seminar, where we visited various international organizations, including the International Criminal Court, the Embassy of Japan in the Netherlands, and the Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum). It was an invaluable experience for me, and I would like to share what I learned through this trip.

On the first day, we went to the Verzetsmuseum to learn about the history of the resistance movement in the Netherlands. During World War Ⅱ, Germany occupied the Netherlands, and the museum exhibited personal stories of individual members of the resistance.　Despite being in dangerous situations, people at the time still spoke up. They knew they might be caught and sent to jail, but I was really impressed by their courage.

On the second day, we went to Leiden and visited Leiden University, which is Professor Fujii’s alma mater. We also visited the Leiden Castle, where we were able to see the actual structure that withstood a siege by Spanish forces. It was a precious experience that allowed me to feel the depth of history.

-A View Over Leiden from the Leiden Castle-

That evening, we had dinner with Mr. Komoda, who works at the ICC, and Ms. Akita, who previously interned at the ICC and is currently attending graduate school at Leiden University. They sincerely offered us advice regarding careers, and I had the opportunity to hear about the consistent mindset and attitude they maintain in their work. This made me strongly feel that I, too, want to cherish and uphold such values as I think about my own career. In addition, before the trip, we studied the Rodrigo Roa Duterte case at the ICC. While learning about the case, we came up with questions and topics we wanted to explore more deeply. During the dinner, we had the chance to ask Mr. Komoda about his views and experiences. This clear and professional approach left a strong impression on me.

On the third day, we took part in the Just Peace Open Day. On this day, various international organizations open their doors to the public, allowing general visitors to enter. We visited the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), the Kosovo Specialist Chambers (KSC), the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), and the ICC. At the ICC, we had the opportunity to tour the courtroom and the building itself. Having studied a lot about the ICC beforehand, I was deeply moved when I actually set foot inside.

-At the entrance of the ICC-

-The actual courtroom-

On the fourth day, we visited the ICC and the Embassy of Japan in the Netherlands. During our visit to the ICC, we had the opportunity to speak with professionals such as Mr. Futori and Mr. Komoda. Their insights helped us understand the expertise and sense of purpose required in this field. We also had the chance to speak with interns currently working at the ICC. They shared their experiences, including what kind of work they do and what they find rewarding about being part of the ICC. Hearing from people close to our age made the conversation especially relatable and inspiring. It helped me understand more clearly what a career in the ICC could be like. Talking with the interns also encouraged me to keep studying and preparing for the future.

At the Embassy of Japan in the Netherlands, we learned about Japan–Netherlands diplomatic relations and how international law is applied in diplomatic practice. We also received detailed explanations about career paths in institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the United Nations(UN), and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which greatly helped us consider our future careers.

Before the trip, I carefully researched each organization we were scheduled to visit and the professionals we would meet. However, during the actual visit, I mistakenly directed my questions to a person whose expertise did not align with the topic. This experience taught me the importance of accurately identifying the background and area of knowledge of the person I’m speaking with. Although it was a moment of reflection, it helped me ask better questions and communicate more clearly in the future.

-With my peers-

During this fieldwork, I was given the opportunity to take on a leadership role, which allowed me to develop skills in communication and team coordination. I learned how important it is to share information clearly with everyone in the team. When we all understand the current situation, it is easier to work together and build trust among the group.

Furthermore, it became clear to me that the diverse roles and responsibilities within international organizations require a specific mindset and knowledge to work in such environments. The trip inspired me to think more seriously about my future career and how I can contribute to global society.