WILLEMSTAD - The commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands has served as a reminder of Curaçao’s rights and responsibilities within the Kingdom. Governor Lucille George-Wout highlighted the significance of the Charter as a cornerstone for safety, nationality, and the global protection of political rights.
Speaking at the celebration, Governor George-Wout expressed pride in the enduring relevance of the Charter for Curaçao. She emphasized the unique relationship within the Kingdom, saying, “We are in the Caribbean Sea, but we maintain a trans-Atlantic bond with the Netherlands. The strength of the Netherlands supports us in areas such as defense and diplomacy.”
A Charter Beyond Words
The Governor stressed that the Charter is not just a collection of legal agreements but a safeguard for the citizens of the islands. “Wherever we are in the world, we can step into a Kingdom embassy to protect our rights. This assurance is something we should never take for granted,” she remarked.
70 Years Young
Reflecting on the historical timeline, George-Wout noted that 70 years is a relatively short period. “We are only 70 years young, which means we must continue to grow, learn, and develop,” she said with a warm smile, urging ongoing collaboration and education.
The Governor also clarified a common misconception, highlighting that the Charter holds a higher legal status than the Dutch Constitution. “The Charter guarantees our autonomy within the Kingdom. It is not a colonial relic but a conscious choice made by our elected representatives in 1954. Their decisions ensured a future for the islands, and we must honor that.”
The Balance of Power
Using a symbolic comparison, George-Wout likened the separation of powers to a lion standing on three legs, representing the trias politica. “If one leg weakens, the system loses its strength. This is why we must teach and uphold the principles of the Charter,” she said.
She echoed the sentiment of former Prime Minister Maria Liberia-Peters, who recently described the Charter as more than a legal document. “It is a document of social cohesion. It connects us within the Kingdom, and we must strengthen that connection,” George-Wout added.
Pride in Democracy
Governor George-Wout reflected on the historical context of the Charter’s creation, noting that Curaçao had universal suffrage as early as 1949, and that the Charter was approved by democratically elected representatives. “We should take pride in this safeguard. If we lose it, where else could we find such security?”
Looking to the Future
With her focus firmly on the future, the Governor called on the people of Curaçao to remain aware of the Charter’s importance. “We must stand on the shoulders of our ancestors to advance. Only then can we build a strong, autonomous future within the Kingdom.”