De Derde Kamer - The Third Chamber
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The Third Chamber is a shadow parliament dealing with international cooperation and sustainable development. The name refers to the Dutch parliament, which has a first chamber and a second chamber. 150 volunteers, thirty from developing countries, commit themselves to work for a more effective Dutch development cooperation policy.
What is the aim?
The Third Chamber aims at raising awareness about international cooperation, both among Dutch politicians and among the general public. In addition to that, members of The Third Chamber want to develop new solutions to international issues.
What are the results?
In 2004, 13.9 million Dutch people were reached through the printed media and another 9.7 million through TV and radio. Southern members of The Third Chamber had substiantial impact on the debates. Members of The Third Chamber discussed with dozens of politicians. Proposals of The Third Chamber on for example female genital mutilation and Aids treatment led to debates in the Dutch parliament. On of course members of The Third Chamber involved their own network in the debate about international cooperation.
