WILLEMSTAD - On Friday, November 14, Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas received the Commission for Royal Decorations, which presented the official proposals for 14 candidates set to receive a Royal Decoration in April 2026.
A Royal Decoration is an official distinction granted by His Majesty King Willem-Alexander to citizens of the Kingdom who have made exceptional contributions to the well-being of the community or specific groups within society. After citizens in Curaçao nominate a candidate, the Commission reviews the proposal and submits its advice to the Council of Ministers. The Commission itself does not decide on the petitions; rather, it issues recommendations to the Government based on a standardized evaluation manual.
Once the Council of Ministers approves the list of candidates, it is forwarded to His Excellency the Governor of Curaçao, who then submits it to the Government of the Netherlands for the final decision. The official ceremony will take place on April 26, 2026, one day before King’s Day.
The Commission for Royal Decorations of Curaçao is appointed by the Prime Minister through a national decree for a three-year term. With the submission of the 2026 proposals, the term of the current Commission has come to an end. The outgoing members are:
– Mrs. Lusette Verboom-Fairbairn, Chair
– Mr. Trevor Bakhuis
– Mrs. Marisol Roosberg
– Mr. Eithel Hato
– Mrs. Maria Liberia-Peters
During the meeting, Prime Minister Pisas exchanged views with the Commission on the developments, challenges, and achievements of the past three years, during which the members served the country with commitment, dedication, and professionalism. The Prime Minister expressed his deep gratitude to all members for their valuable contribution to the community.
Finally, Prime Minister Pisas stated:
“The work of the Commission for Royal Decorations is of great value to our community; it involves preparing proposals that honor Curaçao’s citizens who have made exceptional contributions to the progress, development, and well-being of our people and our country.”
