The presence of Member of Parliament Gwendell Mercelina, Jr. (PNP) from Curaçao during Prinsjesdag (Prince’s Day) and the General Political Debates (Algemene Politieke Beschouwingen) marks a historic milestone. This first-time occurrence, made possible by Senator Jeroen Recourt (GL-PvdA), was celebrated with warm recognition from Prince Constantijn (who accompanied Mercelina to Antigua for the SIDS 2024 Conference) and praise from various Members of Parliament regarding Mercelina (PNP)’s work in Curaçao. Even Governor Lucille George-Wout was pleased with this historic moment.
However, the joy is overshadowed by the lack of attention to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom in the Throne Speech and the subsequent debates. This is happening while 2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the Charter (Statuut), a year in which more connection should be sought. Although the Throne Speech referred to good governance and legal certainty, concrete plans for strengthening ties and addressing the impact of austerity measures, the National Growth Fund, and other reforms on the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom were lacking.
Mercelina advocates for inclusive politics
“Decisions made in The Hague also have major consequences for the residents of Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten, for example in education,” says Mercelina. “We must strive for policies that benefit all Dutch people, regardless of where they live.” He also emphasizes the unifying role that sports can play within the Kingdom, such as athletics, sailing, and baseball, and advocates for investments in sports programs such as the Kingdom Games.
A call for more attention
“This historic presence is a step in the right direction, but more is needed,” says Mercelina, who in June 2024 was also the first Dutch Caribbean parliamentarian to submit a motion on fiscal autonomy in the Second Chamber. “We must strengthen ties and work together towards a future in which all parts of the Kingdom flourish.”
The call for more attention to the Caribbean countries within the Kingdom is growing louder, especially in this anniversary year and after the apologies for the slavery past. It is hoped that the new Kingdom government (Schoof I) will take this call to heart and take concrete steps to strengthen ties and build a shared future.
