VVD wants independence rights for Caribbean islands “explicitly ” in statute”

The Hague-the VVD puts the independence of the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom on the agenda in the upcoming elections. The statute should include the “explicit provision” that Curaçao and Sint Maarten, but also the special municipalities of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Sab, like Aruba have the right to leave the Kingdom.

This is stated in the draft Election program of the Liberals presented today. The desire to make it easier for the islands to become independent is not new. In January 2019, then VVD MP André Bosman submitted an initiative bill. Since his departure from the room, the treatment has been silent.

In the draft Election programme ‘giving space, setting boundaries’, an even older Initiative bill by Bosman returns: the admission rules that Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten use for European Dutch citizens should also apply in the opposite direction. In 2016, the House of Representatives rejected the proposal.

From the VVD draft Election program

Kingdom relations

In the interests of the inhabitants, the administration and public finances in Aruba, Curaçao and Sint-Maarten need improvement. The same applies to Bonaire, Sint-Eustatius and Saba when it comes to strengthening the economy.

Strengthen Caribbean part of the Kingdom. It is necessary to proceed with the strengthening of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Together with Aruba, Curaçao and Sint – Maarten, we work on good and honest governance, financially sound policy, the tackling of corruption, the sustainable strengthening of the economies and education.

Financial soundness. Reforms are needed not only for the islands to be able to stand on their own feet, but also for the benefit of the population of the islands. The autonomous countries have their own responsibility and have to keep their own pants on financially. The Netherlands can provide support in ensuring the quality of governance, justice and finance.

Modernization of relations. Reciprocity is the starting point for relations within the Kingdom. The conditions that Aruba, Curaçao and Sint-Maarten impose on European Dutch people who want to settle there will now also apply the other way around. The statute for the Kingdom includes an explicit provision that, in addition to Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten can declare their desire to become independent and thus gain the right to leave the Kingdom. Bonaire, Sint-Eustatius and Saba can also decide to become independent.