WILLEMSTAD – A new pandemic is only a matter of time, and Curaçao must act now to avoid repeating the mistakes made during the COVID-19 crisis, warns health economist Eline van den Broek. She stresses that political courage is needed to implement structural improvements in public health and the healthcare system, ensuring the island is better prepared for future crises.
Inevitable Global Health Threats
According to Van den Broek, another pandemic is unavoidable. “We live in a world where viruses spread faster due to globalization and environmental factors,” she explains. “Curaçao can prepare, but that requires long-term improvements rather than reactive crisis management.”
She advocates for a thorough evaluation of the COVID-19 response to prevent repeating past mistakes. One of the biggest missteps, she argues, was that Curaçao largely adopted foreign policies without considering the island’s unique challenges.
A One-Size-Fits-All Approach Doesn't Work
During the pandemic, many countries implemented lockdowns and curfews, and Curaçao followed suit without fully assessing the local consequences. Van den Broek believes this approach led to disproportionate economic and social harm, especially for low-income communities.
“A small island like Curaçao faces different challenges than large countries with strong social safety nets,” she explains. “Health measures must be balanced against economic realities.” In the future, she urges policymakers to implement customized solutions that minimize both public health risks and economic damage.
Another major issue was the narrow focus on virology, ignoring broader impacts. “A pandemic isn’t just a medical crisis—it affects the economy, mental health, and society as a whole,” Van den Broek states. She argues that political leaders relied too heavily on epidemiologists and virologists, failing to consider other health risks, such as loss of income and lack of access to essential care.
The Need for Political Courage and Reform
Van den Broek believes Curaçao still has time to prepare, but it requires bold leadership. The first step, she says, is a critical review of the COVID-19 response. In the Netherlands, a parliamentary inquiry was conducted—Curaçao should do the same to analyze decision-making and identify areas for improvement.
She also calls for a stronger focus on prevention in the healthcare system. “Right now, the emphasis is on crisis management, but early intervention can prevent suffering and reduce long-term costs.”
Additionally, decision-making must be broader, incorporating economists and social scientists alongside medical experts. Curaçao must also develop a crisis plan tailored to its specific needs, ensuring faster and more effective responses in the future.
A Hopeful Outlook—If Action Is Taken Now
Despite the challenges, Van den Broek remains optimistic. Curaçao has a strong healthcare system, skilled doctors, and a resilient community. However, she stresses that resources must be used more efficiently, and the crisis response structure must be strengthened.
She urges the government to show leadership and take a hard look at past policies. “It’s not too late to learn from our mistakes and build a stronger, more prepared Curaçao. But the time to act is now.”
