WILLEMSTAD - The Think 2 Do Institute (T2DI) today released its latest Fragile State Report, revealing concerning trends that highlight the ongoing challenges facing Curacao. Despite efforts to promote stability and foster development, the findings indicate that far to many significant obstacles remain, impeding the path to sustainable national outcomes.
The report (a multi-dimensional assessment) which analyzes key indicators of state fragility, presents a sobering picture of the current socio-economic and political landscape. The multi-dimensionality of this report aims to provide a Holistic Perspective of the state of the country. It is a well-rounded view of a country's development, allowing policymakers and other actors, to understand interconnections between different sectors and challenges. Some of the key findings include:
Economic unsustainability: The national economy continues to grow after the pandemic. A growth mainly stemming from the performance, of what has become a one pillar economy, which is tourism. Apart from the inherent fragility of an undiversified economy, there is also the risks that the tourism sector itself faces as a result of disregard of the “planet and people” factors of sustainable development. In addition, other factors such as the shortage of qualified labor, the continued brain drain, and the unrecovered loss of purchasing power as a result of the pandemic related high inflation, are all influencing the economic outlook from a sustainability perspective.
Political instability: Frequent mutations in government and political polarization are amongst the many factors, that have undermined efforts to create a cohesive governance framework, raising questions about the legitimacy and effectiveness of current leadership.
Social issues: There is little indication of the gap between the wealthy and the impoverished is reducing, with marginalized groups facing significant challenges as to the provision of to essential services such as education, healthcare, and social protection, mainly as a result of financial unsustainability of these. All of this is being worsened by the consequences of an aging, and shrinking society. These unaddressed societal issues further decrease trust across society.
Security Concerns: Persistent significant capacity problems all through the law enforcement sector organizations, is a major menace to safety and security, and the upholding of the rule of law. This, too, is eroding the public trust in law enforcement, and further complicates efforts to establish a secure environment for all citizens.
The report emphasizes the importance of inclusive dialogue and strategic planning to foster resilience and build a more stable future for Curacao. It can serve as a foundation for ongoing discussions among stakeholders and can guide future policy initiatives aimed at achieving lasting progress.
The Fragile State Report is available for public viewing at www.thinktodoinstitute.com The T2DI encourages citizens, organizations, and international partners to engage with the findings and collaborate on solutions that will pave the way for a more prosperous and resilient Curacao.