THE HAGUE – Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten was introduced during his visit to Curaçao to the government’s Nation Building plan, an ambitious program aimed at addressing poverty, insecurity and social inequality in vulnerable communities.
During his visit on May 13 and 14, Jetten and Curaçao Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas visited Seru Fortuna, one of the pilot areas selected for the program. The Dutch prime minister described the visit as a “valuable meeting about neighborhood strengthening.”
Behind the presentation was Curaçao’s Nation Building strategy, which focuses on a long-term approach to improving living conditions in disadvantaged neighborhoods. The program aims to strengthen communities through investments in social development, safety and opportunities for residents.
During the discussions, attention was also given to food security, poverty reduction and the return of Curaçaoan young professionals who have moved abroad.
It remains unclear what financial or practical contribution the Netherlands will make to support the initiative.
Focus on security
At Marine Base Parera, Jetten received briefings on security challenges affecting the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Discussions included geopolitical tensions, the work of the Coast Guard and the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, as well as efforts against drug trafficking and disaster response.
No new measures or additional resources were announced following the meetings.
Jetten also visited the Tula Museum, where he reflected on the shared history of Curaçao and the Netherlands, including the legacy of slavery.
He acknowledged that the Netherlands had failed to properly consult the Caribbean countries and Suriname before taking its position on a United Nations resolution regarding the transatlantic slave trade. The Dutch government abstained from the vote, a decision that generated criticism across the Caribbean.
Jetten said the lack of coordination “was not a proud moment” and expressed willingness to contact France regarding a historical letter believed to have been written to Tula during the 1795 slave uprising.
The museum has requested that the document, which is reportedly located in France, be brought to Curaçao.