dr. Mendeltje van Keulen 

Professor of Practice

Over the next three years, Dutch companies, NGOs, municipalities, and ministries will face 13 new European laws, all related to 'digitalisation': the influence of information and communication technology on behaviour, government, society, security, etc. This means there is work ahead for the current generation of students, who need to learn about the dilemmas and solutions that our society will face. Without government regulation, companies take control of our data, rights, and behavior.

To prevent this and regulate this, we need knowledge and talent. That is the theme of the Jean Monnet Chair at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. The Hague University of Applied Sciences, through its bachelor programmes in European Studies (ES), Governance and Organisation, and Law, nurtures young public professionals who will regulate digital technology. Through podcasts and events created by and for students, we raise awareness of the importance of digital regulation in Europe for a safe and inclusive society. 

The Jean Monnet Chair establishes a sustainable network involving governments, businesses, and students and teachers in The Hague's ecosystem as an international city of Peace and Justice. The professional field can inform vocational education about the latest developments. In the municipality of The Hague, for instance, there are plans to translate peace and justice into the digital domain.

The grant spans three years, from January 1, 2024, to January 1, 2026. Each calendar year includes planned activities such as public events; podcasts created by and for students; guest lectures in the European Studies bachelor programme (Political Challenges and Managing Organisations in Europe); university-wide minor EU Law and Governance; HHS Summer School Peace and Justice; field assignments with professional practice for the university-wide minor Challenges to European Governance; and in the European Studies bachelor programme, subjects such as Applied Research Methods, Facing Europe’s Challenges; Fundraising in Europe, and the Europe Desk.

Interested in collaborating? Email Mendeltje on m.vankeulen@hhs.nl