WILLEMSTAD – As Curaçao moves closer to the elections, the political party PAR has outlined a strategy focusing on economic liberalization, administrative efficiency, and social innovation. Quincy Girigorie, representing the party, has articulated a vision where the state acts as a facilitator rather than a regulator, aiming to create a market-driven and self-sufficient society. However, how consistent is this vision, and how does it translate into actionable policies? 

A Market-Oriented Economic Approach 

PAR distinguishes itself from social-democratic parties by advocating for a limited government role in economic and social affairs. Rather than increasing minimum wages, the party aims to improve purchasing power through subsidies and tax cuts, shifting from direct to indirect taxation. 

This approach reflects a consistent center-right ideology, promoting personal responsibility and market incentives over government intervention. However, it raises concerns about social equity, as tax reductions and subsidies might not effectively reach the most vulnerable groups. 

Strategic Economic Growth with Targeted Regulation 

While PAR promotes economic liberalization, it also recognizes the need for regulation in certain sectors. For example, the party supports stricter oversight of the gaming industry but advocates for a more flexible immigration policy for skilled workers. 

This dual approach reflects a pragmatic stance, balancing free-market principles with the need for sector-specific regulations. However, finding the right equilibrium between control and deregulation remains a challenge. 

Governance: Autonomy and Transparency 

PAR places strong emphasis on government transparency and self-reliance. The party supports anti-corruption measures through strengthening judicial institutions rather than relying on Dutch intervention. This stance highlights a nationalist undertone, reinforcing the idea that Curaçao should solve its own problems. 

While this vision is consistent with PAR’s broader philosophy, it raises questions about whether local institutions have the capacity and resources to combat corruption effectively without external support. 

Sustainability as an Economic Opportunity 

Instead of imposing environmental restrictions, PAR sees green innovation as a catalyst for economic growth. The party’s hydrogen energy plans and solar-powered neighborhoods reflect a business-oriented approach to sustainability. 

This aligns well with their economic strategy, ensuring that environmental policies contribute to investment and job creation, rather than just limiting pollution. 

International Relations: Economy Over Politics 

When it comes to foreign relations, PAR prioritizes economic pragmatism over political ideology. While Venezuela remains an important neighbor, the party sees stronger economic ties with Colombia, Suriname, and the Dominican Republic as more beneficial. 

This realistic approach avoids geopolitical entanglements and focuses on economic gains, demonstrating consistency with their market-driven philosophy. 

Challenges and Contradictions 

While PAR’s policy framework remains largely consistent, there are key areas where tensions arise: 

Balancing regulation and deregulation: Stricter control over the gaming sector vs. relaxed immigration policies. 

Ensuring social equity without direct redistribution: Relying on subsidies and tax incentives instead of wage increases. 

Attracting foreign investors while protecting local businesses: How to stimulate external investment without undermining Curaçaoan entrepreneurs. 

Conclusion: A Pragmatic Center-Right Vision 

Overall, PAR remains true to its core values: 
Government as a facilitator, not a regulator. 
Strategic economic planning, with regulated and deregulated sectors. 
Self-reliance in governance and anti-corruption measures. 
Sustainability as an economic driver, rather than just an environmental responsibility. 
International partnerships based on economic interests, not politics. 

However, practical challenges remain, and voters will need to assess whether PAR’s pragmatic approach is the right balance between economic growth, social stability, and national autonomy as Curaçao moves forward.