Recently, the United States engaged in discussions with Caribbean law enforcement authorities to address the escalating rates of crime and violence fueled by illicit firearms trafficking. 

Illicit firearms trafficking poses a significant threat to Caribbean peace and stability, including Curaçao, by fueling violence and empowering criminal organizations. This undermines collective efforts aimed at promoting safety and security. The meeting aimed to enhance collaboration with the CARICOM Crime Gun Intelligence Unit (CGIU) to stem firearms-related crimes within the Caribbean region and to prosecute those involved in illicit firearms trade. 

While I won’t delve into the specifics of the meeting, it’s concerning that Curaçao was not included in this crucial regional initiative aimed at saving lives. Shouldn’t we be addressing the issue of gun violence, which is exacerbated by illicit firearms trafficking? Don’t we share the common regional goal of fostering a safer and more secure Caribbean? 

Initially, I presumed this meeting was exclusively for CARICOM members, to which we do not belong. However, the participation of the British Virgin Islands, similar to Curaçao as a non-independent Overseas Territory, suggests otherwise. 

Regrettably, we often overlook opportunities to participate in regional or hemisphere-wide gatherings. This is particularly relevant now as the U.S. seeks to strengthen its economic partnership with our hemisphere (WLRN South Florida). Our decision-makers seem fixated on the Netherlands and the Dutch, using them as a scapegoat to justify our domestic shortcomings. 

It’s evident that we don’t prioritize our relationships with our neighbors, who understandably view us as outsiders. The bottom line is, we can’t afford to remain passive when it comes to regional matters.