THE HAGUE – The Caribbean part of the Kingdom received only a passing mention in this year’s Troonrede (King’s Speech), with King Willem-Alexander dedicating just three sentences—52 words in total—to the islands. That is the same length as in 2023 and slightly more than in 2024, when the Caribbean was reduced to a single brief clause.

“In the Caribbean Netherlands and in the countries Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten, prosperity and well-being are under pressure. Together with the governments and administrative partners there, the cabinet continues to work on greater financial stability, stronger governance, food security, and better public services. Given the unique character of each island, this requires tailor-made solutions,” the King said.

Observers note that the monarch himself cannot be blamed for the lack of substance, since the speech is written by the prime minister’s office. Each year, the drafters struggle with how to address the Caribbean, often resulting in what critics call vague, obligatory remarks.

The speech, delivered on Prinsjesdag in The Hague, once again left many in the Caribbean wondering whether their concerns—ranging from economic inequality to healthcare challenges—are truly being taken seriously in the Netherlands.