THE HAGUE – The GroenLinks-PvdA coalition is calling for a more active role in addressing the impacts of climate change on Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten. To this end, Member of Parliament Raoul White submitted a motion to the Dutch House of Representatives.
The motion highlights the disproportionate effects of climate change on small island nations, including those in the Caribbean, which have contributed minimally to its causes.
In his motion, White stated:
“The House, having heard the deliberations, noting that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that small island states are already experiencing significant adverse effects of climate change, while these islands have contributed very little to its causes; considering that the government has allocated only €18 million for climate policy in the Caribbean Netherlands for 2025, with this amount drastically decreasing in 2026 and 2027; and recognizing that the CAS countries (Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten) also face significant challenges in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change; requests the government to assess additional measures needed for effective climate policy on the islands and share this assessment with the House, and proceeds to the order of the day.”
State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Zsolt Szabó responded to the motion by stating:
“This motion falls under the responsibility of the Minister of Climate and Green Growth. After consultation, I can present it for consideration by the House. I will forward this request to my colleague.”
The Challenge of Climate Change for the Caribbean
Caribbean islands are highly vulnerable to rising sea levels, stronger hurricanes, and environmental degradation caused by climate change. Despite this, the budget allocated for climate initiatives in the region remains limited and is set to decline in the coming years.
The motion underscores the need for additional measures and funding to support the islands in mitigating and adapting to climate change. The GroenLinks-PvdA coalition aims to prioritize the resilience of the Caribbean territories as part of the broader Kingdom of the Netherlands' climate agenda.