Low-Hanging Fruit

Low-Hanging Fruit

25 July 2026

Another well-known concept in implementation science is low-hanging fruit: initiatives that require relatively little effort and resources yet can produce visible results in a short period of time. These quick wins are important. They demonstrate that change is possible, build confidence, and create momentum for more ambitious reforms.

The question, then, is: what is Curaçao's low-hanging fruit?

To be honest, I would rather leave that question to the reader. Nevertheless, let me make an attempt.

My first candidate is the further professionalization of our major sports, particularly baseball, football, and athletics. Curaçao possesses extraordinary athletic talent. Despite limited facilities and support, our athletes have already achieved remarkable success on the international stage. With targeted investments in sports facilities, coaching, and the organization of local and international competitions, we could make significant progress in a relatively short time. The benefits of sport extend far beyond medals and championships. It promotes healthier lifestyles, strengthens social cohesion, and fosters national pride. As an immediate step, Parliament could finally approve the long-awaited National Sports Lottery. That could be accomplished within weeks.

A second quick win lies in tourism. Not by expanding it further, but by making it more sustainable. Tourism has not merely grown; in some areas it has begun to spread uncontrollably. The next phase should therefore focus on quality rather than quantity. That means reducing pressure on our natural environment and infrastructure, increasing average room rates, and ensuring better wages for the people working in the sector. In this way, tourism benefits not only visitors but also the people of Curaçao.

These should not be difficult conversations among stakeholders. It should be evident that everyone ultimately serves their own interests best by first serving the common good.

Perhaps that is the real low-hanging fruit.

Miguel Goede