Those Without Youth Have No Future

Those Without Youth Have No Future

May 18, 2026

I read that, according to Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek, the number of births continues to decline. At the same time, many young people leave for abroad to pursue their studies. This demographic decline among the young further accelerates the aging of our society.

We also see that the education system often does not equip young people adequately for the future. More and more children are ending up in special education. Increasing numbers of young people are also struggling with mental health issues. A recent report stated that more than 800 young people in Curaçao are receiving mental health care. NU.cw article on youth mental health care

The prospect of finding a job that pays more than the minimum wage is relatively small for many. For those who studied abroad, finding suitable employment and affordable housing upon returning to Curaçao is often very difficult.

There needs to be a policy specifically aimed at offering this generation a real perspective. It is important to realize that a large proportion of these young people grow up in households with less than Cg. 3,000 per month to spend. The quality of nutrition is therefore often limited, and money for recreation is scarce.

Fortunately, many still find their way to sports facilities, but many do not. I believe young people are a forgotten group.

Miguel Goede