Dissent is Democracy: Reflections on Curacao's Lost Sophistication and Education

Dissent is Democracy: Reflections on Curacao's Lost Sophistication and Education

March 30, 2024

On this island, memory is fleeting, and institutional memory is practically nonexistent. It's a place where ambitious ideas are born but often die on paper, forgotten amidst distrust and skepticism. Take, for instance, the case of the Mirant Company's ambitious vision laid out in "Curaçao – Island of Education and Sophistication" back in 2001. This plan, meticulously crafted by consultant Mark Towery, never saw the light of day, dismissed as nothing more than a ploy by an energy company seeking to boost its sales.

Despite its flaws, the title of that plan has always resonated with me. It serves as a poignant reminder of a time when sophistication and education were valued commodities on our island. But today, it's hard to pinpoint exactly what went wrong. Our once-sophisticated society has crumbled, and education seems to have lost its significance. We've regressed to become the poorest country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010 undoubtedly played a role, but our governance―plagued by nepotism, cronyism, and the invasive tendrils of neoliberalism―truly sealed our fate. Two recent projects epitomize this decline: the looming apartment complex at Janthiel and the ostentatious five towers of luxury apartments at Rif Piscadera. These developments cater to the wealthy elite, promising a trickle-down effect that never materializes. Instead, they drive up real estate prices, exacerbating the gap between the haves and the have-nots.

As slogans like "No more hotels" and "It's not paradise if locals can't afford to live there" gain traction, it's evident that something needs to change. But how do we reclaim our lost sophistication and prioritize education once more? The answer is clear: we must work alongside educated and honest individuals who have the island's best interests at heart.

It's time to reject the allure of quick profits and prioritize regenerative development that benefits all members of our society. Let's build a future where education is cherished, sophistication is celebrated, and the well-being of every citizen is paramount. Only then can we truly restore Curaçao to its former glory.

Miguel Goede