Dear Editor,
The debate on independence seems to be split between those who decry ongoing attachment to the colonial power and the remaining controls exercised by that power. The other side of the debate are those who appreciate the stability of remaining colonial attachment and the usability of the passport.
Permit me to suggest that the debate misses future considerations which I believe to be the important ones.
We can easily agree that exploitation by colonial powers has been the major part of Caribbean history. Currently there are many independent countries and much greater autonomy in others. But we can clearly see that in the future, new exploitative and imperialist structures are beginning to form that are different to earlier colonialism. Powerful countries are in control and other powerful countries want to have more control. Small and weak territories like Greenland, Panama and St. Maarten will likely be the victims of future imperialism. New forms of colonialism driven by different forms of power are likely in the future.
In the future, given that likely confrontations of the major sovereign powers (mixed in with private mega corporations that have significant control), it might be more favorable for St. Maarten to be attached to a power block that will provide some protection and guidance.
Robbie Ferron
