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Building Better Futures


VNG International are experts in strengthening democratic local government in developing countries and countries in transition.

VNG International

Local governments make a real difference in how people live, work and thrive. As the level of government closest to citizens, they translate policies into tangible results and deliver solutions that improve everyday life. That is why VNG International, rooted in the experience of Dutch municipalities, supports democratic local governments around the world.

We work with local governments to develop practical and innovative solutions that strengthen their capacity and performance. Our projects cover areas such as improving waste and water services, climate change adaptation, local tax systems, local economic development, and transparent local governance. We often work in contexts affected by conflict, migration and crisis, enhancing inclusive and reliable public services, with particular attention to women, young people and vulnerable groups.

We are supporting over

73 Million

People worldwide

55

Projects

30+

Countries

News updates

  • VNG International contributes to Dutch parliamentary debate on effective international cooperation

    June 11, 2026

    Deputy Director Renske Steenbergen represented VNG International at a parliamentary roundtable in the Dutch House of Representatives on the Dutch Diamond approach, alongside several other organisations.

    A more strategic approach to international cooperation

    The roundtable took place in the context of a more strategic Dutch foreign policy, in which diplomacy, trade, development cooperation and security are increasingly seen in connection with one another. The Dutch Diamond brings together government, businesses, knowledge institutions and civil society organisations to address international challenges and make better use of Dutch expertise.

    Local institutions as a condition for success

    VNG International was invited to contribute because of its long-standing experience in strengthening local governance and public institutions in partner countries. During the discussion, Steenbergen delivered a clear message: international cooperation becomes more effective and sustainable when local public institutions are strong enough to support investment, service delivery and long-term development.

    In her contribution, she stressed the practical role of municipalities and local authorities in making cooperation work. They are responsible for permits, spatial planning, public services and local governance systems that create predictability and trust. This makes them essential to stable investment, economic development and resilient communities.

    Examples from partner countries

    She  also referred to examples from Mozambique, Benin and Namibia. Work on water management, land administration and port development shows that investments only deliver lasting impact when local governments have the capacity to guide, manage and sustain them. Strong local institutions are particularly important in fragile and conflict-affected contexts, where local authorities are often the most visible and accessible layer of public administration.

    Making the Dutch Diamond work

    Through this contribution, VNG International brought the perspective of local governance directly into the parliamentary discussion. The central message was clear: strong local public institutions are not a side issue in international cooperation. They are a practical and strategic condition for making the Dutch Diamond more effective, more sustainable and more relevant in today’s international context.

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