Where does your enthusiasm and dedication for Flemish-Dutch culture come from?
I began my career as a researcher at KADOC in Leuven, where I organised the archives of the late Johan Fleerackers. He served as Chief of Staff to the Flemish Minister of Culture from 1965 to 1981 and played a key role in establishing the Dutch Language Union and the Brakke Grond cultural centre in Amsterdam. That archive (90 linear metres) proved a rich source on the post-war cultural history of Flanders and the Netherlands. It later became the main foundation for my doctoral research.
I’ve remained actively involved in Flemish-Dutch cultural cooperation ever since: as a member of the Commission for the Flemish-Dutch Cultural Treaty; as chair of the Council for the Dutch Language and Culture within the Dutch Language Union; as a member of the Dutch Council for Culture (2013–2017); and through my role in the University of Antwerp’s Fund for Cultural Management, which also has a Flemish-Dutch structure. Since 2018, I have co-organised a Leadership in Culture programme with Utrecht University. So in many ways, Flemish-Dutch cooperation has been a consistent thread throughout my career.
Why did you receive the cultural award?
It was a great honour and a meaningful recognition. The ANV (Algemeen-Nederlands Verbond) is an organisation with a long history (since 1895), and many inspiring individuals and institutions have received this award before me. I was pleasantly surprised and very grateful. As the award criteria state: the cultural prize is granted to individuals or organisations (worldwide) who actively promote the Dutch language and culture, in both scientific and societal contexts.
You are a member of the Flemish UNESCO Commission. A new cross-border Geopark is currently being developed between Belgium and the Netherlands, the Scheldt Delta Geopark. How do you view this initiative?
I see this as a very positive development. For me, culture and nature are closely intertwined. In fact, the word “culture” comes from the Latin “colere”, a term from agriculture meaning “to cultivate.”
It’s wonderful that Flanders and the Netherlands are joining forces in so many areas, including ecology and nature. You can truly feel the energy of Europe at its borders. Especially, in the way cross-border cooperation takes shape. The Scheldt Delta is a unique estuarine region, full of potential, and a perfect example of that dynamic.
The UNESCO label acts as a kind of quality mark. It generates international attention, encourages scientific research, supports cross-border regional identity, and adds a new dimension to tourism and recreation in the area. All excellent reasons to get behind this project and support it wholeheartedly.
Are there any potential downsides we should be mindful of?
Of course, tourism and recreation must always remain in balance with the natural ecosystem.
But given that this project puts nature conservation at its core, I don’t immediately see any major risks.
Thank you for the conversation, Annick!
https://www.unesco-vlaanderen.be/verbind-je-met-unesco/experten/annick-schramme