The Netherlands has voted, and according to early results, D66 under Rob Jetten has emerged as the largest party — with the CDA under Henri Bontebal securing a strong position as well. While the political developments in The Hague may seem distant, the outcomes of these elections will have direct and indirect consequences for Curaçao and the wider Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The final coalition talks may take weeks or even months, but one thing is clear: the tone and direction of Dutch governance are shifting, and Curaçao must act now to position itself strategically for what’s to come.

A New Dutch Direction Under D66

A D66-led government represents a moderate, pro-European, socially liberal agenda, with a strong focus on education, climate policy, and modernization of governance and public administration. Unlike populist rhetoric seen in previous coalitions, D66 favors a humane but controlled migration policy, a rules-based approach to governance, and stable international cooperation.

This combination could bring predictability and renewed dialogue within the Kingdom — a welcome change for the Caribbean parts of the Netherlands that have often felt sidelined in policy debates.

What This Means for Curaçao

For Curaçao, a D66 victory could signal a more open and equitable approach to Kingdom relations. The party explicitly acknowledges that the Caribbean countries are integral to the Kingdom, with shared responsibilities in areas such as social stability, climate resilience, and good governance.

That may translate into new opportunities:

More attention to climate and sustainability, including potential funding for coastal protection, renewable energy, and disaster preparedness.

Renewed dialogue on social and economic development, emphasizing equal treatment within the Kingdom.

Continued oversight on governance, as D66 — like most Dutch parties — insists on transparency and accountability as conditions for cooperation and financial support.

The Role of the CDA

If the Christian Democrats (CDA) enter the coalition, Curaçao could benefit from their pragmatic and Kingdom-oriented approach. Historically, the CDA has valued stability, social cohesion, and enduring ties with the Caribbean territories.

Their participation could help preserve traditional cooperation frameworks and ensure a balanced, non-ideological relationship between The Hague and Willemstad.

Likely Coalitions and Implications

Current projections make a centrist coalition the most realistic outcome:

D66 + VVD + CDA, possibly with smaller parties, would form a moderate alliance focused on economic growth, climate action, and responsible governance.

A D66 + GroenLinks/PvdA coalition would lean further left, emphasizing social equality and environmental investment — potentially advantageous for Caribbean climate programs.

Either way, Curaçao’s strategy must be proactive, not reactive.

How Curaçao Should Prepare — Practical Steps

1 Immediate Action: Send concise policy briefs to all relevant Dutch party leaders and coalition negotiators, outlining Curaçao’s key priorities: climate resilience, healthcare, finance, and equal Kingdom participation.

Strengthen communication channels through the Curaçao House in The Hague and the Minister Plenipotentiary’s office, ensuring early engagement in coalition talks. 

2 Short to Medium Term:

Prepare for different cooperation scenarios — from grants to loans to reform-linked assistance.

Develop ready-to-implement governance and audit proposals to build trust and credibility with the new Dutch government.

3 Long Term:

Diversify Curaçao’s partnerships beyond the Netherlands, tapping into EU funding, regional banks, and new bilateral partners such as Canada and CARICOM states.

Invest in data-driven public management and transparency reforms to strengthen institutional integrity.

The Strategic Horizon

A D66-led coalition offers a window of opportunity — but not without conditions. Curaçao stands to gain technical support, investment, and policy stability if it presents itself as a reliable, forward-looking partner.

The risks are clear: delays in Dutch coalition formation, potential governance conditionalities, and shifting political priorities. Yet, the opportunities outweigh them.

By moving early — with diplomacy, discipline, and data — Curaçao can ensure its interests are firmly anchored in the next Dutch policy cycle.

The coming months are not a time to wait and see. They are a time to engage, negotiate, and lead.

— Curaçao Chronicle Editorial Board