Dutch veterans take up development aid in former service area

AMSTERDAM – Dutch veterans of military and peacekeeping missions frequently return to their former theatre of action to support humanitarian projects. In this way they hope to aid the people they left behind upon the completion of their military duties. Also at issue is the need to put to rest any personal anxieties they may have experienced as a result of their tour of duty. The Dutch Veterans Institute and the National Commission for International Cooperation and Sustainable Development reviewed the effects of 33 such projects. The outcome of the study will be the publication of a book with an overview and practical suggestions for future generations of veterans. Most of the projects are modest and are situated in Indonesia, Irian Jaya and the former Yugoslavia. A report of the findings was presented to the ministries of Defense, Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation.