WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao’s national football team, The Blue Wave, has been awarded the 5.0 Award 2025 for its unifying role during one of the most turbulent years in recent memory. The team made history as the smallest nation ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, giving the island an extraordinary boost in morale and pride.
The award was presented by the University of Governance during the End-of-Year Conference 2025, held on Tuesday, November 25. According to the organization, The Blue Wave’s teamwork and impact embody the core principles of Society 5.0, demonstrating Curaçao’s ability to connect, strengthen and inspire through collaboration.
Strong Participation in Conference Focused on Curaçao 2030 Vision
This year’s conference drew a high turnout and centered on the Visie Curaçao 2030 framework. The session opened with a presentation by Miguel Goede, followed by discussions featuring Mahatma Matinus, Ivan Kuster, Jurgen Arvelo and Clifton Wallé.
Speakers reflected on a year shaped by global challenges such as the climate crisis, artificial intelligence, geopolitical tensions and rising inequality. Internationally, 2025 was defined by the ongoing war in Ukraine, violence in Gaza and the political shifts stemming from Donald Trump’s second term.
Local Pressures and Regional Instability
At home, political tensions remained high. Although ruling party MFK maintained its majority, corruption scandals eroded public trust. The region also faced heightened instability due to turmoil in Venezuela and increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean.
Economic Growth With Social Consequences
Curaçao experienced strong economic growth driven by tourism, accompanied by a construction and real estate boom that further priced local residents out of the housing market. As a result, calls for economic diversification, sustainability and energy transition intensified.
The island also continued to struggle with demographic and social issues, including an aging population, youth emigration, low pensions, rising poverty and a mental health crisis. Still, there were bright spots: grassroots environmental efforts like the Hidden Green Movement, sporting achievements by The Blue Wave and Ceddanne Rafaela, and cultural momentum from Carnaval and Kaya Kaya.
Mixed Progress on Legislation and Climate Action
A new Criminal Procedure Code was approved, but several important laws remain unpublished. Meanwhile, the island’s climate goals continue to fall short as temperatures rise and hurricanes become stronger and more frequent.
Award Celebrates Hope and Collaboration
The conference concluded on an optimistic note, with The Blue Wave celebrated as a symbol of what Curaçao can achieve when cooperation, trust, technology and humanity come together. The 5.0 Award recognizes the team not only for sporting triumph, but for its broader role in uniting a nation navigating a complex and rapidly changing world.