The results of the Dutch parliamentary elections on October 29, 2025, have reshaped the political landscape in The Hague — and with it, the tone of the Kingdom’s future relations. D66 has emerged as the largest party, followed by VVD, CDA, and GroenLinks–PvdA, while PVV has lost much of its former strength. The formation process is still underway, but the most likely outcome is a centrist–progressive coalition led by D66, with support from CDA, GroenLinks–PvdA, and possibly Volt or ChristenUnie.

The new political climate in the Netherlands can be summarized in three words: renewal, connection, and sustainability — a deliberate departure from the ideological polarization that marked the Rutte IV and Schoof I governments. For Curaçao, this shift offers a moment of realignment — a chance to move from dependency to partnership, from control to co-creation.

From Supervision to Partnership

The incoming coalition is expected to place less emphasis on oversight and conditions and more on equality and trust within the Kingdom. 

For Curaçao, this could mean:

Less bureaucratic interference from The Hague;

Greater flexibility in setting local priorities;

Continued financial supervision by the Cft, but with a more collaborative and capacity-building approach.

If Curaçao shows transparency and good governance, the door opens for mutual trust and shared policy development — a long-awaited shift from the top-down model that has dominated for years. 

Climate and Sustainability as a Shared Mission

The progressive parties, especially D66, PvdA, and Volt, view the Caribbean as the frontline of climate change within the Kingdom.

This perspective creates major opportunities for Curaçao:

Access to Dutch Climate Fund and EU funding mechanisms for renewable energy, adaptation, and circular economy projects;

Collaboration with RVO, TNO, and Dutch universities;

Long-term investment in solar, hydrogen, and water management initiatives.

For an island that faces droughts, coastal erosion, and rising energy costs, this alignment could drive both sustainability and economic growth.

A Stronger Focus on Social Equity

Another defining element of this new political era is the renewed attention to Caribische Nederlanders (Caribbean Dutch citizens) in the European Netherlands.

D66 and PvdA have pledged to reduce inequality by:

Expanding educational exchanges and internship opportunities;

Promoting equal opportunity and representation;

Restoring mobility and cultural funds that were frozen under previous governments.

This shift strengthens the influence of Curaçaoan organizations and diaspora voices in Dutch policymaking — a connection that could be vital for long-term progress. 

Economic Cooperation Instead of Loans

The expected coalition sees Kingdom relations not merely in terms of financial aid or loans, but as partnerships for development.

That means:

Investment in innovation, entrepreneurship, and education;

Support for sustainable tourism and the digital economy;

Potential for a Kingdom-wide innovation agenda, positioning Curaçao as a Caribbean hub between Europe and Latin America.

If Curaçao plays its cards right, it can transition from a recipient of aid to a strategic partner in innovation and trade.

Migration and Citizenship: Humane, But Firm

The far-right rhetoric of the PVV era will fade, replaced by a more humane and cooperative tone on migration. However, Curaçao will be expected to demonstrate policy capacity and accountability.

Expect:

More structured cooperation on labor migration and student mobility;

Joint agreements on asylum, return, and border management, especially with Venezuela and Haiti in mind.

Curaçao will be treated as an equal partner — but it must also act as one.

A Moment for Initiative

This political shift in The Hague marks a historic opening. The new Dutch leadership is offering a partnership based on trust, equality, and sustainability. It is now up to Curaçao to seize it.

Curaçao must:

Take initiative by proposing forward-looking projects that align with Dutch and EU priorities;

Build alliances with progressive parties, Members of Parliament, and diaspora organizations;

Show that accountability and autonomy can coexist.

The message is clear: The era of supervision is ending. The era of partnership begins — if Curaçao chooses to lead, not follow.