WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao raised the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) flag on Friday, September 25, 2026, as part of SDG Flag Day, renewing its commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive future for the island.
The government said the occasion provides an opportunity not only to reflect on Curaçao’s long-term development, but also to recognize challenges currently affecting the community.
“The flag symbolizes a commitment. But that commitment only becomes meaningful when people experience its results in their daily lives,” Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas said.
Pisas acknowledged that concerns remain within the community, specifically mentioning safety in schools and the situation facing pensioners.
“We know that there are concerns in our community, including about safety in schools and the situation of our pensioners. These concerns require serious attention and concrete action on our part,” the Prime Minister said.
Curaçao has identified six United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as priorities.
The first is SDG 1, No Poverty, with the government focusing on strengthening social security and creating opportunities for everyone.
Under SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, Curaçao aims to promote preventive healthcare, healthier lifestyles and accessible healthcare services.
Education is another priority. SDG 4, Quality Education, focuses on investment in education as well as creating school environments in which children can feel safe.
The government has also selected SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy, emphasizing continued efforts to develop energy sources that are both sustainable and affordable.
SDG 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, centers on creating more opportunities through an inclusive economy, while SDG 14, Life Below Water, focuses on protecting Curaçao’s surrounding seas, coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Pisas stressed that identifying these priorities does not mean Curaçao has already achieved them.
“We cannot regard these goals as something that has already been accomplished. They indicate where we must continue to focus our efforts,” he said.
According to the Prime Minister, sustainable development requires continuous work and concrete government decisions, as well as cooperation among government, businesses, educational institutions, civil society organizations and citizens.
“The flag we raise today must continue to remind us of that responsibility,” Pisas said.
The Sustainable Development Goals form part of the United Nations’ global 2030 Agenda and address issues ranging from poverty and health to education, economic development and environmental protection.