WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao must focus on a limited number of interconnected priorities to achieve sustainable development and strengthen its economic resilience, according to the Social and Economic Council (SER), which is participating in the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York.
The SER stated that the international discussions at the HLPF provide an important lesson for Curaçao: sustainable development cannot be achieved through isolated policies, but requires coordinated action in areas such as water, energy, infrastructure, housing, digitalisation and employment.
As a small and open island economy, Curaçao faces specific vulnerabilities due to its dependence on imported energy, international price fluctuations, high financing costs and disruptions in global supply chains.
However, the island’s small scale can also be an advantage, according to the SER. Policies can be connected more quickly, responsibilities can be assigned more clearly and social partners can be involved earlier in decision-making processes.
One of the clearest examples is the relationship between water and energy. Producing drinking water requires significant amounts of energy, meaning that international fuel prices directly affect households, businesses and public services.
Investments in renewable energy, energy storage, a reliable electricity network, efficient water use and water reuse could therefore simultaneously improve purchasing power, competitiveness and climate resilience.
The SER also highlighted the importance of infrastructure and digitalisation. Modern networks, reliable connectivity, cybersecurity and responsible use of data and artificial intelligence are increasingly necessary to improve productivity and public services.
To benefit from these developments, education, vocational training and labour-market policies must be aligned with new economic opportunities. According to the SER, this is essential to ensure that local workers and entrepreneurs can participate in the digital transition and that existing inequalities are not increased.
Housing and spatial development are also closely connected to social well-being. The availability and affordability of housing, transportation options, access to employment and services, and the quality of the built environment all influence participation in society.
The SER emphasized that climate adaptation and protection of vulnerable groups must become an integral part of housing and infrastructure policies.
The council noted that these challenges cannot be solved by government alone. Curaçao needs predictable regulations, reliable data, affordable financing and cooperation within the Kingdom, the Caribbean region, Latin America and international organizations.
A structured dialogue between government, employers, employees, civil society and experts is needed to turn policy choices into practical measures and ensure that the costs and benefits of major transitions are distributed fairly.
Through its participation in the AICESIS delegation, the SER is bringing Curaçao’s perspective to the international stage while gaining access to knowledge, experiences and potential partnerships.
The council said that affordable water and energy, future-ready jobs, inclusive digitalisation, adequate housing and climate resilience should not be viewed as separate challenges, but as one integrated agenda aimed at improving quality of life and strengthening Curaçao’s economy.
The remaining years toward 2030, according to the SER, should be focused on execution: clear priorities, financing, implementation and measurable results.