WILLEMSTAD – Members of the Dutch Parliament have raised growing concerns about democratic oversight and accountability in the proposed new European Union framework for Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), warning that Curaçao and the wider Dutch Caribbean could face major funding decisions with limited parliamentary control.
During written consultations on the revised LGO decision, multiple parliamentary factions questioned how the Dutch government intends to keep the Tweede Kamer informed during both the negotiations and the implementation phase of the new EU framework. Lawmakers noted that while the Netherlands is often held politically accountable when problems arise, its formal role in decision-making and execution remains poorly defined.
A particular concern is the reduction of fixed multiannual funding envelopes, which traditionally offered islands a degree of predictability in planning public investments. Under the new system, funding would become more flexible and competitive, but Dutch lawmakers warned this could weaken transparency and complicate long-term budgeting for Curaçao.
Parliamentarians also questioned how responsibilities will be divided if EU-funded projects encounter delays, cost overruns, or governance failures. While Curaçao would be responsible for implementation, the Netherlands would likely face political pressure at the EU level if issues emerge.
Several factions urged the Dutch government to commit to regular, proactive reporting to Parliament rather than limiting updates to formal EU agenda briefings. Without such safeguards, they warned, the new framework risks creating a gap between political responsibility and actual control.
For Curaçao, the debate highlights a structural challenge: gaining access to EU funding while ensuring that decision-making remains transparent, predictable, and democratically accountable within the Kingdom.