The cabinet is working on good governance and a strong rule of law in both the European and Caribbean parts of the Netherlands. Secretary of State Eddie van Marum (Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations) is therefore sending the Agenda Good Governance Caribbean Netherlands to the House of Representatives today. The Agenda Good Governance is based on three priorities: a strong government and better services for citizens and businesses; robust institutions that provide clear legal frameworks and oversight; and addressing integrity violations while enhancing the resilience of the rule of law.
Secretary of State Van Marum:
“Throughout the Netherlands, residents should be able to rely on a well-performing and honest government. With the Agenda Good Governance, I am giving a significant boost to the further promotion of good governance in collaboration with the administrators of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. We are building on the efforts of the past period. Residents must be able to count on the local government respecting and enforcing the law. I also find it important that residents can express themselves and that the government is attentive to the interests and concerns of people.”
Close Cooperation
The Agenda Good Governance is being developed in close cooperation with the island governments of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. There is a shared responsibility between the governments of the three islands and the national government. On all three islands, under the leadership of the commissioners, work is being done on a local approach to strengthen governance. It is important that it becomes a concrete approach that meets local needs. Examples of concrete steps already taken include setting up integrity bureaus and measures to improve financial management.
Small Scale and Complex Tasks
Governors in Caribbean Netherlands face specific challenges. The islands are small, but the tasks and challenges are large and complex. All three islands have vulnerabilities in terms of good governance. There is a shortage of capacity, and institutions and oversight bodies do not have a strong position. Also, unlike in European Netherlands, important legislation regarding good governance and integrity is lacking.
Strengthening the Government and Better Services for Citizens
An important part of the Agenda Good Governance is improving services in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. This will be done, among other things, through digitization. This year, BSN and DigiD will be introduced on the islands. It is also important that government decisions are actively made known so that residents know what to expect.
Strong Institutions and Legal Frameworks
The legal frameworks in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba will be strengthened, based on the principle of comply or explain. An example of this is the preparation of a General Administrative Law BES. A Law to Promote Integrity Assessments by Public Administration (Bibob) for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba is also being prepared. Institutions such as the audit chambers will be strengthened. Citizenship education should stimulate democratic awareness and participation on the island. The professionalization of political leaders and the civil service will also continue through professional associations.
Addressing Integrity Violations and Increasing Resilience of the Rule of Law
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba are implementing measures to address integrity violations with support from the Ministry of BZK. For example, rules for procurement and tendering are being tightened. It is also being investigated how whistleblowers can be better protected. Additionally, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba will be included in the Integrity and Safety Monitor that is conducted every two years for European Netherlands.