International Law

CONSTITUTIONAL RESTRUCTURING PROCESS IN THE NETHERLANDS ANTILLES

By Karel.Frielink

What are some struggles that lay ahead for Curacao?

Soon, i.e. somewhere in 2009, Curacao will become an autonomous island within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is the next step in the development of the former colony Curacao into a more or less independent country.

Some points of attention and concern are (in random order):

1. good governance and government
2. the economy (less protectionism is mandatory)
3. budget (how to balance?) and taxes
4. combating poverty
5. education
6. improving business climate (for domestic and foreign enterprises)
7. motivating the unemployed (out of necessity vacancies now filled by foreign employees)
8. health care
9. the political system (currently there are way too many parties)
10. Curacao?s future relationship with The Netherlands
11. crime & prison issues
12. social security & seniors
13. families & children
14. environment (improving or selling oil refinery)

It is a long list and the resources are limited. However, it goes without saying that The Netherlands must and will help Curacao, not only because of the former imperial relationship, but also because, e.g., any violation of human rights (see the current prison situation) is an issue that concerns the whole Kingdom and not just Curacao.

Let’s work hand in hand to build a better and brighter future to ensure that Curacao remains the Pearl of the Caribbean.

Karel Frielink
Curacao-based Attorney (lawyer) / Partner

Full post as published by Karel's Legal Blog on December 28, 2007 (boomark / email).