The session brought together representatives from the fields of education, economic development, healthcare, and spatial planning to explore the long-term implications of demographic trends affecting the island chief among them an ageing population and the growing impact of migration.
The report, commissioned to provide a long-range outlook for Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba, highlights critical demographic developments and their potential societal consequences. For Statia, these include pressing questions and possible solutions around the future of the local labour market, housing availability, and the resilience of public services.
Participants were encouraged to engage in open, ambitious dialogue, envisioning what a resilient Statia might look like by 2050. Stakeholders were invited to ‘dream big’, considering how each of the four domains education, economic development, healthcare, and spatial planning should evolve to meet the needs of future generations.
The session forms part of a broader commitment by the Statia Government to inclusive governance and evidence-based policymaking. The active involvement of multiple stakeholders was essential in facilitating this first step towards a long-term strategic vision.
This dialogue was made possible by the Executive Council and the Island Council.
The Government extends its appreciation to all invited participants whose insights and expertise made this crucial dialogue possible.
