The attendance of Member of Parliament Gwendell Mercelina, Jr. (PNP) from Curaçao at Prinsjesdag (Prince's Day) and the General Political Debates (Algemene Politieke Beschouwingen) represents a historic milestone. This first-time event, facilitated by Senator Jeroen Recourt (GL-PvdA), received warm recognition from Prince Constantijn—who accompanied me to Antigua for the SIDS 2024 Conference—as well as praise from various Members of Parliament. Governor Lucille George-Wout also expressed her satisfaction with this momentous occasion.
However, the celebration is tempered by the lack of attention given to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom in the Throne Speech and subsequent debates. As 2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the Charter (Statuut), it is a year that should focus on strengthening connections. Despite the Throne Speech mentioning good governance and legal certainty, it failed to present concrete plans for addressing the effects of austerity measures, the National Growth Fund, and other reforms on the Caribbean territories.
Decisions made in The Hague have significant consequences for the residents of Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten, particularly in areas like education. We must strive for policies that benefit all Dutch citizens regardless of where they reside. Sports can play a unifying role within the kingdom (e.g. athletics, sailing and baseball) and warrants investments in initiatives such as the Kingdom Games.
This historic presence is a step in the right direction, but more is needed. I was also the first Dutch Caribbean parliamentarian to submit a motion on fiscal autonomy in the Second Chamber in June 2024. We must strengthen our ties and work together toward a future where all parts of the kingdom can thrive.
The demand for greater attention to the Caribbean nations within the kingdom is gaining momentum, especially in this anniversary year and in light of recent apologies for the legacy of slavery. There is hope that the new Kingdom government (Schoof I) will heed this call and take concrete actions to reinforce connections and build a shared future.
Gwendell Mercelina, Jr.
Member of Parliament
