Education, Inequality, and the Erosion of Democracy

Education, Inequality, and the Erosion of Democracy

6 October 2025

The strength of a democracy depends on the strength of its people—on their education and their economic security. When those foundations weaken, democracy itself begins to crumble.

In Curaçao, the numbers tell a troubling story. Half of the population has no more than lower vocational education, while 12.3% hold a bachelor’s degree, and only 7.5% have a university-level or higher qualification. This educational structure limits opportunity and weakens the country’s capacity to innovate, govern, and grow.

Inequality has also deepened. The Gini coefficient increased from 0.42 in 2011 to 0.46 in 2023, signaling a widening gap between the rich and the poor. Poverty has risen in tandem: about 80% of the population lives on less than ANG 3,000 per month. The poverty line, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), stood at ANG 3,200 gross per month in 2023, with 30% of households living below it. Despite some improvements in employment figures, poverty remains a structural issue.

This is more than an economic issue—it’s a democratic one. When education stagnates and inequality grows, participation declines, trust erodes, and democracy loses its meaning.

If we want to restore democracy to higher ground, we must invest in education, narrow the gaps, and rebuild the social fabric that holds us together. The future of Curaçao depends on whether we dare to invest in our people again.

Miguel Goede