WILLEMSTAD – The PAR political party has unveiled its 2025-2029 government program, focusing on economic growth, education reforms, and social well-being. The party advocates for strengthening the tourism sector, diversifying the economy, and fostering strategic collaborations within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Caribbean region. Additionally, investments in education and healthcare are deemed crucial for Curaçao’s sustainable future.
The program outlines several measures aimed at economic strengthening, social security, and improved infrastructure. Proposed initiatives include developing Schottegat into a multi-industrial hub, promoting sustainable tourism, and enhancing the quality of education.
However, the program does not specify how PAR plans to finance these proposals.
Economic Vision
Curaçao’s economy has traditionally relied heavily on the tourism sector and requires further diversification. One of PAR’s core initiatives is the transformation of Schottegat into a multi-industrial hub, focusing on sustainable energy, logistics, and maritime industries. This initiative aims to create jobs and attract foreign investment.
Additionally, the party seeks to expand tourism by investing in high-quality stay-over tourism, sustainable hotel management, and integrating local agricultural products into the tourism industry. The emphasis is on reducing the ecological footprint and minimizing the negative effects of mass tourism.
Another notable proposal is the creation of a Food Hub in Curaçao, turning the island into a logistical center for food imports and exports, in collaboration with Latin American countries and the EU. This initiative could position Curaçao as a key distribution center, generating new trade and employment opportunities.
Education as the Key to Progress
Education reform is at the heart of PAR’s vision, seen as the foundation of a prosperous society. The program proposes aligning education with labor market needs and investing in digital literacy and technical training.
One key initiative is the Teach Them Young program, which aims to equip children with skills in technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurship from an early age. Additionally, PAR seeks to establish a Kingdom-wide education platform, enabling more efficient sharing of knowledge and resources.
Another priority is the enhancement of technical and vocational training, preparing young people for a rapidly evolving job market. The party wants to encourage more students to pursue careers in technology, IT, and sustainable energy, sectors with growing demand in the coming years.
Healthcare Reforms
Curaçao’s healthcare sector faces high costs and long waiting times. PAR advocates for a restructuring of the system, emphasizing preventive care and cost reduction. This would be achieved through increased cooperation within the Kingdom and the introduction of an electronic patient record system.
Additionally, the party proposes a more efficient allocation of the healthcare budget, including collective procurement of medicines and medical equipment. PAR also calls for a health authority to oversee quality control and cost management in the healthcare sector.
The aging population is another concern, with plans to expand facilities and support for senior citizens.
Social Security & Employment
Unemployment and social inequality remain major challenges in Curaçao. PAR proposes a labor market reform, emphasizing better education, retraining, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The party suggests establishing an SME fund, offering financial assistance to entrepreneurs to help them expand their businesses.
Additionally, the program includes plans for social housing and affordable living solutions, particularly targeting vulnerable groups. The party aims to set up a national job database and enhance cooperation between employers and educational institutions to help young people secure jobs more quickly.
Another proposal is an increase in the AOV pension, ensuring that seniors can maintain a dignified standard of living. PAR underscores that social security is a fundamental right, and an inclusive society is vital for Curaçao’s future.
Infrastructure & Mobility
To support economic growth, PAR prioritizes infrastructure improvements. The party aims to tackle traffic congestion in Willemstad’s city center and Banda Bou while investing in a sustainable transportation system. This includes better roads, improved public transport, and bike-friendly urban planning.
The party also seeks to modernize the energy and water infrastructure, with renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power playing a more significant role.
A Future-Proof Curaçao
PAR’s party program is ambitious, focusing on sustainability, economic growth, and social justice. By investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, the party aims to reduce Curaçao’s dependence on external factors and strengthen the resilience of its economy.
With this vision and a set of concrete—but not yet financially detailed—action plans, PAR hopes to regain public trust and prepare the island for the future.