I stand before you today as a voice for those who are always left behind. I am James Finies – I come from Bonaire, an island in the southern Caribbean, ‘nos ta papia papiamento’– we speak Papiamento together with Haitian, the only two official native languages in the Caribbean that survived colonization – an island still colonized to this day. In the 21st century, my people are denied representation, erased from the global narrative, and excluded from decision-making about our own future.
As we meet to discuss culture and digital transformation in the context of sustainable development, we must confront a critical question: Can sustainable development truly exist in colonized territories where international human rights instruments are absent or denied? On Bonaire, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples are not realities – we live outside their protection.
Digital transformation, driven by AI and algorithms, is built on historical data. But our stories were never recorded. Our histories were never written. And now, in the digital age, we risk being erased once more – this time by design. If we don’t act now, we will be permanently excluded from the future being built around us.
Culture is not a side note – it is central to development. Without cultural rights, there is no dignity, no justice, and no sustainable future. The digital world must reflect all cultures, not just those already in power.
This requires action in three key areas: 1 - Equity and access. Digital technologies must be available to all communities, especially those historically excluded. 2 - Ethics and governance. AI must be aligned with human rights and transparency. It must serve humanity – not deepen inequality. 3 - Diversity and innovation. Every culture deserves to be seen, valued, and preserved. Innovation thrives when all voices are heard.
Meanwhile, on Bonaire, our native language Papiamento is disappearing from schools. Our flag replaced. Our online presence rewritten. New settlers flood our island, while native voices are silenced. Our native population has shrunk from 80% in 2010 to just 30% today. We are losing our land, our rights, our culture, our identity, we are facing ethnic and cultural erasure.
I am here as the last hope of our people – Our culture still breathes. Our language still lives. Our spirit endures. We are resilient, we have the faith not to be erased. Our future must be decided by us. Decolonize AI, decolonize Bonaire
So I call on the United Nations and the world: Include us. Protect us. Stand with us. Let us build a future where no one – truly no one – is left behind.
James Finies
Chairman Bonaire Human Resources Organisation (BHRO)
Speech given at the United Nations High-Level Interactive Dialogue on Culture and Sustainable Development, on May 29, 2025.
Dear Editor,
I recently read an open letter regarding former MP Mr. Theo Heyliger and his alleged access to phones while incarcerated. The Prison Director was even mentioned as possibly facilitating these privileges due to political ties with Mr. Heyliger and his wife.
Dear Editor,
The controversial reinstatement of Hensley Plantijn to a top government position in St. Maarten has amplified public concerns over the erosion of integrity, transparency, and sound governance within the civil service. Plantijn, previously dismissed by the former government under Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs for non-performance, appealed his dismissal not through an independent or impartial channel, but under a new administration in which he now serves as a legal advisor.
This dual role as both a beneficiary of the appeal and a legal advisor to the very government deciding on his case represents a blatant conflict of interest. By failing to recuse himself, Plantijn compromised the ethical standards expected of public officials and cast doubt on the fairness of the reinstatement process.
The fallout extends beyond Plantijn himself. Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina’s administration is under fire for its growing reputation of opacity, preferential treatment, and failure to uphold the procedures that should govern the public service. His silence on this case, and others like it, has severely damaged his credibility. Instead of defending democratic principles, the government has chosen to shield one of its own – a move that suggests political loyalty is being prioritized over public accountability.
Alarming allegations also point to Plantijn using his current position to marginalize Emilia Thomas-Connor, effectively preventing her from executing her role as Secretary General. Faced with mounting internal pressure, Thomas-Connor ultimately stepped down and moved into the private sector. Such tactics not only undermine professional integrity but also send a chilling message to other civil servants.
This case also highlights a deeper, systemic issue: the performance of many Secretary Generals (SGs) who are critical to the day-to-day functioning of government is not being adequately monitored or evaluated. Several SGs have remained in their posts for years without any formal performance assessment, leading to a stagnation in public sector efficiency and accountability. Without proper evaluation mechanisms, poor performance is allowed to persist, further eroding the quality of governance.
Given the serious implications of these developments, many are now calling for the Kingdom Government of the Netherlands to intervene and assess the situation. Reinstating individuals under ethically compromised circumstances, particularly those who misuse their influence for personal or political gain, is not only inappropriate; it is not integral. Without integrity, the machinery of government ceases to serve the people and begins serving only itself. The current trajectory threatens to compromise everything St. Maarten’s democracy stands for.
Name withheld
Dear Editor,
I just read the letter submitted to an on-line media outlet by a “Concerned Citizen” regarding former MP Theo Heyliger’s depicted use of a cell phone in the Point Blanche prison. While the letter raises important questions about prison security, the integrity of the justice system, and the potential misuse of political influence, I must take issue with the author’s choice to remain anonymous.
If the concerns raised in the letter are truly driven by civic duty and a desire for transparency, it is only fair that the author stands behind his/her words. Anonymity, especially in matters so politically charged, undermines the integrity of the claims and invites suspicion about the true intent behind them. If you (the author) have nothing to hide, why withhold your identity?
For collective “us” to contribute positively to the maturing of our community, we deserve open and honest discourse, not veiled attacks that aim to embarrass individuals without full accountability. If there is genuine concern about wrongdoing, let the investigation proceed without the added distraction of shadowed motives. I urge those who feel strongly about these issues to step forward, whether as individuals or through proper legal channels, so that real progress can be made in holding those responsible accountable.
The need for a transparent investigation into things like cell phones in prison is one thing. A second thing, however, is that the public’s trust is best built on clarity and openness, both from the authorities and from those who claim to speak for the people.
Michael J. Ferrier
Dear Editor,
Several weeks ago, The Daily Herald reported that Anguilla has established a special economic zone. The newspaper also mentioned that the first special economic zone company in Anguilla is expected to hire 8 to 15 Anguillians.
Since 2011, the author of this article has consistently advised the Government of St. Maarten to endeavour or try to establish a special economic zone. Numerous times, various St. Maarten governments and the public were made aware of the possibility of establishing a special economic zone on St. Maarten.
One of the best models of a special economic zone is located in the Cayman Islands. As a matter of fact, the Cayman Islands has three economic zones. Since 2011, special economic zones in the Cayman Islands have generated an estimated 1 billion dollars to its economy. Additionally, there are almost 400 special economic zone companies in the Cayman Islands.
It is commendable that Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs Telecommunication and Transport Grisha Heyliger Marten is spearheading efforts in promoting agriculture. I concur with her endeavors. However, establishing another industry such as a special economic zone is very necessary to improve this nation’s economy. Minister Heyliger should reach out to Caymanian and Anguillian officials to learn as much as possible about how to create St. Maarten’s version of a special economic zone.
Reliable electricity and dependable Internet will be needed to launch a special economic zone. Additionally, the government has to tackle road blocks like the high percentage of profit and other taxes. Moreover, a law and independent body regulating this industry will be needed. This is the path the Cayman Islands took before creating their special economic zones.
Furthermore, the recent meeting between the Government of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the Government of St. Maarten concerning trade, tourism, agriculture and financial services. Much can be learned from the BVI because they do not rely on a single industry. If the Government of St. Maarten is really serious about diversifying its economy; it must do all the work collectively to make it a reality.
After decades of relying on one industry it’s St. Maarten’s turn to introduce a new industry.
Kenneth Cook
