ANGUILLA / ST. MARTIN:--- The Guyanese community across Anguilla, St. Martin, and the wider diaspora joins in celebration of Guyana’s 56th Republic Anniversary, which is marked on Monday, February 23.
Marking more than half a century of sovereignty, this year’s milestone - observed under the national theme “Expressing Our Culture Through Innovations and Creativity” - highlights the nation’s historic economic transformation and the enduring strength of its people abroad.
In a special radio address broadcast to the regional diaspora, Guyana’s Honorary Consul to Sint Maarten, Mrs. Kim Lucas-Felix, reflected on the journey from the 1970 transition to a Co-operative Republic to Guyana’s current standing as a global leader in economic growth and environmental stewardship.
“Fifty-six years ago, we took full responsibility for our destiny," the address noted. "Today, that destiny is being realized as our 'Land of Many Waters' transforms into a land of unprecedented opportunity for all Guyanese, whether at home or abroad,” stated Mrs. Lucas-Felix.
The anniversary message placed a significant emphasis on diplomatic gratitude and cultural preservation. The Honorary Consul extended a heartfelt "Thank You" to the governments and citizens of Anguilla and St. Martin. The message acknowledged the hospitality that has allowed the Guyanese diaspora to thrive, contribute to the local workforce, and integrate into the social fabric of these islands.
Guyanese were urged to remain "anchored" in their heritage. Lucas-Felix called on parents and guardians to pass on Guyanese traditions, from the culinary arts of pepperpot and cook-up rice to the values of resilience and "One People" harmony, to the younger generation.
She highlighted Guyana’s shift from an agrarian economy to a burgeoning energy and infrastructure powerhouse, inviting the diaspora to remain engaged with the nation’s rapid development.
“As the ‘Golden Arrowhead’ (Guyana’s flag) flies high across the Caribbean and the rest of the world, marking 56 years of complete control over our sovereign and political destiny, we as Guyanese must reaffirm our commitment, as our motto states, to being ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny,’ regardless of geographical boundaries.
Lucas-Felix commended the members of the Guyanese Association of Anguilla for organising a weekend of activities. The group in Anguilla, led by Mr. Carlton Pickering, CEO and Executive Producer of Kreative Communications Network (KCN), held a Guyanese Breakfast on Saturday morning, followed by a church service on Sunday at Kingdom Citizens Church, and culminated in a flag-raising ceremony.
Many Guyanese across the diaspora have returned home for Republic Day celebrations and will join the street parade, Mashramani (an Amerindian word meaning a celebration after hard work).

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- On Friday, February 20, 2026, Prime Minister Honorable Dr. Luc Mercelina officially inaugurated a new emergency generator at the Department of Communication (DCOMM), marking a significant step toward strengthening Sint Maarten’s emergency communications resilience ahead of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season.
The new generator is designed to ensure the continued operation of the government’s communication arm during national blackouts and times of disaster. This investment reinforces the Government’s commitment to maintaining uninterrupted public information services when they are needed most.
During brief remarks at the ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina emphasized the urgency of ensuring that all critical systems are fully operational before the start of hurricane season.
“Communication saves lives,” Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina stated. “As we approach the upcoming hurricane season, it was imperative that this generator be installed and fully operational to guarantee that DCOMM and, by extension, the Government of Sint Maarten is fully prepared. We cannot wait for a storm to test our systems. Preparedness must happen in advance.”
With the generator installed, DCOMM will be able to sustain critical communication functions, supporting coordinated emergency response efforts and ensuring timely public updates during adverse events.

The Prime Minister emphasized that resilience and forward planning remain central to the Government’s agenda.
“Preparedness is not optional for a small island developing state such as ours. It is essential. This generator represents proactive leadership and responsible governance. By ensuring it is up and running ahead of hurricane season, we are strengthening our national readiness and protecting the flow of verified information to our people when it matters most.”
Also present for the ceremony were Fire Chief and National Disaster Coordinator Clive Richardson, Head of Facilities Management Ekema Henderikus, DCOMM staff, and invited guests Steven Romney from Electec and Electrician Gary Manners.
A key component of this enhanced capacity is the Government’s radio station SXMGOV 107.9 FM, which broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The station will now continue operating seamlessly during power outages, ensuring that residents receive essential alerts, safety instructions, and official updates without disruption.
Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina further highlighted the importance of the radio station within the disaster management framework.
“SXMGOV 107.9 FM is a vital lifeline between the Government and our community. When electricity is disrupted and other channels are compromised, radio remains one of the most reliable means of communication. By securing uninterrupted power to this station, we are reinforcing that lifeline before the hurricane season begins.”
DCOMM Department Head Maurice Lake emphasized that a reliable communication infrastructure is a cornerstone of national preparedness. He noted that the generator represents a proactive investment in public safety, enabling the government to better serve the Sint Maarten community before, during, and after emergencies.
Lake welcomed the milestone, noting that the upgraded capability strengthens the country’s overall disaster-readiness framework. He also commended DCOMM staff for their efforts to ensure government media are ready in the event of a national emergency.
Officials encouraged residents to remain tuned to SXMGOV 107.9 FM for verified information during emergencies as the Government continues to modernize and fortify its public communication systems and other communication mediums.
The radio station first came on air in May 2017. DCOMM is a key entity within the national disaster management system, serving as Emergency Support Function ESF 8.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Chairlady of Parliament of St. Maarten, Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, has called for renewed commitment, accountability, and structural strengthening of the Inter-Parliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) following the conclusion of the recent gathering hosted in Aruba.

Speaking at the closing press briefing, the Chairlady expressed sincere gratitude to the host country, the organizers, and parliamentary colleagues from Curaçao, Aruba, and the Netherlands for the constructive dialogue held both formally and informally during the consultation.

She underscored IPKO’s unique and critical role within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, particularly given the absence of a formal Kingdom Parliament. According to the Chairlady, IPKO remains the only structured forum in which parliamentarians of the four countries can deliberate collectively on Kingdom-wide matters.

While acknowledging the quality of discussions, Wescot-Williams emphasized the recurring challenge of important issues being raised repeatedly without sustained follow-through.

She noted that IPKO has, in the past, demonstrated its capacity to take collective decisions, most notably regarding the long-discussed Dispute Regulation. However, that process ultimately stalled.

Wescot-Williams highlighted that differing legal interpretations and political perspectives among the countries make a functioning dispute regulation indispensable. She confirmed that a draft prepared by the Caribbean countries has been submitted and is currently under review via the channels for a Kingdom law.

She urged all governments involved to ensure that this matter is brought back on track and finalized, emphasizing that a credible Kingdom structure requires a reliable and fair mechanism to resolve disagreements.

“There must be a deliberate effort to avoid ‘tiptoeing around’ difficult topics,” she stated, stressing that controversial or complex matters cannot continue to be deferred once they become politically sensitive or divisive.

The Chairlady accepted a mandate to bring forward proposals aimed at improving the functioning and effectiveness of IPKO. She stressed that consultations must produce measurable outcomes and that mechanisms for continuity and accountability are essential.

Responding to a question from the media, the Chairlady also raised the broader issue of the Kingdom’s institutional framework. While not formally advocating for the immediate establishment of a Kingdom Parliament, she noted that global developments and geopolitical shifts necessitate reflection on how the rights and interests of all people within the Kingdom are safeguarded.

She opined that the structure of the Kingdom, including the potential need for a more formal parliamentary arrangement should be revisited in future IPKO consultations.

In addition to institutional matters, IPKO participants engaged in discussions on:
• Security and cybersecurity
• Climate adaptation and environmental resilience.
• Aging populations.
• The legacy of the slavery past.
• The geopolitical impact of rapidly changing global dynamics.

The Chairlady stressed that these are not abstract discussions but pressing matters that require coordinated Kingdom-level responses.

Wescot-Williams reaffirmed that IPKO remains a vital platform for parliamentary unity within the Kingdom. In the absence of a formal Kingdom Parliament, it serves as the principal venue where representatives deliberate as one body on shared responsibilities and challenges.

She concluded by expressing hope that the outcomes of this consultation would not remain confined to reports and statements, but would translate into tangible progress by the next IPKO meeting.

“Consultation must lead to consolidation, and consolidation must lead to results,” she affirmed.

ARUBA:--- From February 19 to 21, 2026, parliamentary delegations from Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlands gathered in Oranjestad for the Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO). Hosted by the Parliament of Aruba, this three-day summit focused on pressing issues facing the Kingdom, ranging from geopolitical security to the challenges of an aging population.

The consultation resulted in a concrete list of agreements and a renewed commitment to collaboration across the Atlantic. This article breaks down the key discussions, presentations, and decisions made during this pivotal meeting.

Setting the Ground Rules: Presidium Agreements

The consultation kicked off with the Presidium meeting on February 21, where several procedural agreements were reaffirmed to ensure smooth proceedings. The Presidium, consisting of parliamentary chairpersons (excluding the Netherlands), committee chairs, and registrars, established that the Chairpersons of the Parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten, along with the committee chairs from the Netherlands, would act as delegation leaders.

Key procedural points included:

• Unified Voice: Committee chairs act as spokespersons, though other members are encouraged to participate in discussions.

• Dissenting Opinions: If a delegation holds a differing view, it is noted in the agreement list with a reference to a separate explanation. However, dissenting views from only a part of a delegation are not recorded.

• Public Access: IPKO deliberations are public and broadcast online, ensuring transparency for citizens across the Kingdom.

• Language: The official language is Dutch, though delegations can arrange their own translations if necessary.

Opening Statements and Recent Developments

The summit opened with welcome remarks from Mrs. Arends-Reyes, Chair of the Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Foreign Relations of Aruba. Following her opening, leaders from each country presented updates on recent national developments.

• Aruba: Represented by Mr. Sneek (Chair of Parliament) and Mrs. Arends-Reyes.

• Netherlands: Mrs. Mutluer, Chair of the Kingdom Relations Committee of the House of Representatives, provided updates for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, Saba, and the European Netherlands.

• Curaçao: Represented by Mr. Brownbill (Chair of Parliament) and Mr. Seferina.

• Sint Maarten: Represented by Mrs. Wescot-Williams (Chair of Parliament) and Miss. Roseburg.

A significant follow-up from previous meetings was the establishment of an expert group on the 'Democratic Deficit.' This group is tasked with reporting on proposals to reduce democratic deficits within the Kingdom and interpreting key articles of the Charter (Statuut).

Security in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape

Security was a major theme, underscored by a technical briefing from Lieutenant Colonel Van Wijk regarding the geopolitical situation. The briefing highlighted the three main tasks of the military in the Caribbean:

1. Defense of territorial integrity.

2. Counter-narcotics operations.

3. Support for civil authorities during crises.

The region has seen increasing unrest over the past six months, including actions by the US against alleged drug transports and political instability in Venezuela following the arrest of Maduro in January 2026.

To address these threats, the delegations discussed strengthening territorial defense and increasing manpower, specifically for Caribbean Military personnel (CARMIL). This includes developing ARUMIL (Aruba) and CURMIL (Curaçao) into light infantry units. The delegations also visited ARUMIL to view the vehicles and equipment used in crisis situations.

Financial Relations and Supervision

Mr. Werleman, Director of Finance for the Aruban government, led a crucial presentation on the balance between financial management, supervision, and autonomy. He compared the different financial supervision frameworks across the Kingdom:

• Rft: Kingdom Act on Financial Supervision for Curaçao and Sint Maarten.

• LAft: National Ordinance Aruba Financial Supervision.

• HOFA: The proposed Kingdom Act on Sustainable Public Finances Aruba.

The discussion touched on complex issues like liquidity support loans and the "Landspakketten" (Country Packages). A key point of debate was whether new Kingdom laws are necessary or if national ordinances suffice, and whether the supervision model for Sint Maarten needs updating since the situation has evolved significantly since 2010.

The Future of Aviation and Connectivity

Connectivity remains a lifeline for the islands. Mr. Benschop, Mrs. Anthony, and Mrs. Brown presented the "Aruba Gateway 2030" project. This ambitious three-phase initiative aims to modernize Queen Beatrix International Airport to handle growing passenger flows sustainably.

Phase 1a, focused on US passenger handling and a new baggage system, is already operational. Subsequent phases are scheduled for completion in 2027 and 2030.

Despite modernization efforts, inter-island connectivity remains a challenge. Only 5% of flights from Aruba go to Bonaire, Curaçao, or Sint Maarten. While three airlines operate these routes, ticket prices remain high due to operational costs, handling fees, and taxes. The Dutch Caribbean Cooperation of Airports is working to address this, though simply lowering airport fees may not significantly impact ticket prices.

Cybersecurity: A Shared Responsibility

In an era of digital warfare, cybersecurity is paramount. Mr. Nicolaas, head of the Aruban Security Service, and Mrs. Spagnol-de Kort presented on "Cybersecurity Awareness." They emphasized that cyber threats ignore national borders and that the Kingdom is currently in a "gray zone" between peace and conflict regarding cyber attacks.

The presentation called for:

• Joint teams and shared incident handling.

• Information exchange and awareness campaigns.

• A common legal framework for data protection.

A concrete agreement was made to inventory whether all countries meet basic personal data protection standards (based on Council of Europe Convention 108+) before the next IPKO to facilitate safe data sharing.

Addressing the Aging Population

Mrs. Helder provided a sobering look at the demographics of Aruba and the wider Kingdom. The number of people requiring care in Aruba is projected to nearly double from 2,825 to 5,276 by 2040. Simultaneously, the "gray pressure"—the ratio of working-age people caring for the elderly—will skyrocket. By 2040, only two people will be available to care for every one elderly person, compared to 15 in 2025.

Challenges identified include:

• Extramural: Lonely elderly people, lack of transport, and a shortage of home care staff.

• Intramural: Shortage of beds in care homes, high costs, and personnel shortages.

The policy focus is on keeping the elderly at home longer, supporting informal caregivers (mantelzorgers), and creating community centers. The delegation from Curaçao proposed placing the macroeconomic aspects of aging on the future agenda.

Climate Change and Youth Involvement

Climate activist Mrs. Wouters, representing Caribbean youth, highlighted the urgency of climate adaptation. She discussed the landmark "Climate Case Bonaire" ruling from January 2026, which found the Dutch State negligent in protecting Bonaire from climate change impacts.

Mrs. Wouters proposed three key actions:

1. Explicitly including climate mitigation and adaptation as cultural goals for the islands.

2. Structural youth representation in climate discussions and international COPs.

3. Formalizing cooperation between youth experts and governments to shift from reactive to anticipatory governance.

Looking Ahead: The Road to June 2026

The consultation concluded with a look toward the future. The delegations agreed to a proposal by Sint Maarten to increase the impact of IPKO by dedicating more time to deep-dive discussions on fundamental differences.

Agenda Points for the next IPKO (Netherlands, June 5-8, 2026):

• Data Protection: Inventory of compliance with basic data protection standards.

• Aging: Macroeconomic aspects and solutions.

• Gender Equality.

• Financial Relations.

• Slavery Past.

• Follow-up on Climate Adaptation.

The success of the Aruba summit lies in recognizing that, while each country faces unique challenges, the solutions—whether in defense, healthcare, or climate resilience—are often stronger when pursued together.