WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao government has launched a public information campaign titled Mi ta Prepará (“I Am Prepared”) to encourage residents to be better prepared for emergencies. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas stressed that there is no immediate threat to the island, despite rising regional tensions between Venezuela and the United States.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Pisas emphasized that Curaçao currently faces no direct security risks. He criticized recent reporting in parts of the Dutch media that suggested the island could be in danger. “There is no indication that Curaçao is facing an immediate threat,” the prime minister said. “It is important that information shared with the public is factual and responsible.”
As part of the briefing, the government outlined Curaçao’s current level of preparedness. According to Pisas, the island has sufficient reserves to handle potential disruptions, including approximately two and a half months of fuel supplies and about three months’ worth of essential medicines.
Minister of Economic Development Roderick Middelhof echoed the call for calm, particularly regarding concerns about tourism. He stated that the sector remains stable and that there is no decline in visitor numbers. While one cruise ship visit was recently canceled, Middelhof said that other cruise lines continue to include Curaçao in their itineraries. “There is no reason for panic,” he said. “The media also has a responsibility to help maintain calm.”
Middelhof added that his ministry is in continuous contact with tourism partners to ensure they are kept well informed about developments. He thanked several stakeholders for their cooperation in maintaining clear communication with the sector.
Addressing questions about broader crisis readiness, Pisas explained that Curaçao’s safety services are constantly working on risk assessments. In total, 35 potential risk scenarios have been identified and are monitored. “This is not about creating fear,” he said. “It is about being prepared.”
The Mi ta Prepará campaign is aimed at raising awareness among residents about their own role during emergencies. Citizens are encouraged to assemble basic emergency kits and to consider how they might assist neighbors or vulnerable people if needed. “Being prepared does not mean there is danger,” Pisas emphasized. “It means being responsible.”
The prime minister concluded by expressing concern over what he described as alarmist language used by some foreign media outlets, including references to a possible war involving Curaçao. “I am not against the Dutch press,” Pisas said, “but I am against the spread of incorrect or unbalanced information. Calm and facts are essential.”
With the launch of Mi ta Prepará, the government hopes to strengthen community resilience while underlining that Curaçao remains safe and well prepared.