Royal Decorations

Royal Honours are a way to celebrate individuals who have made a special or exceptional contribution to our society. These awards are given to people from all walks of life who have shown long-term dedication to helping others and improving their community.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Think of:

  • A teacher who always goes the extra mile for their students
  • A business owner who gives back to the community
  • A church volunteer who has served faithfully for many years
  • A coach, caregiver, artist, or anyone else who has made a lasting difference

To be eligible, the person must:

  • Have a clean criminal record
  • Have contributed to society for 15 years or more, either through paid work or volunteering
  • Have gone above and beyond what is normally expected in their role

Examples of Eligible Contributions

People who may qualify include:

  • Volunteers active in sport, healthcare, culture, religion, or nature conservation
  • Employees or entrepreneurs who have made outstanding contributions far beyond their job duties
  • Citizens who have shown exceptional dedication to causes that benefit others

How the Nomination Process Works

On Sint Eustatius, nominations are handled by the Royal Decoration Committee. Once you submit your nomination:

  1. The Committee reviews it and forwards it with a recommendation to the Island Governor.
  2. The Governor then sends it to the Kingdom Representative based in Bonaire
  3. The Kingdom Representative forwards it with their advice to the Civil Honours Council in the European Netherlands.
  4. Based on all recommendations, the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations decides whether to grant the award.
  5. If approved, the Minister submits the nomination to His Majesty the King.

How to Nominate Someone

Nominations must be submitted using the official nomination form. Here's what you need:

  • Download and complete the nomination form (available in English and Dutch)
  • Secure three supporting letters from people who know the nominee well
  • Submit everything by email to: royal.dec.comm@statiagov.com
  • The deadline for submissions is 29 August 2025

Anyone can nominate a deserving person, including a family member, friend, neighbour, or colleague.

Need Help?

If you need assistance with the process, feel free to contact any member of the Royal Decoration Committee:

 

Past Royal Decoration Recipients from Statia

Over the years, several residents of Sint Eustatius have been honoured with Royal Decorations for their exceptional contributions to society. These individuals have served their community with dedication in areas such as education, religion, public service, volunteer work, and social care.

Name Order / Honour Type Year
J.C.A. Woodley RON 2019
M.A. Fortin LON 2021
G.T. Hook-George LON 2021
M.I. Marsdin RON 2021
R.E. Merkman LON 2021
A.W. Robins-Carty LON 2021
F.E.A. Spanner LON 2021
B.I. Woodley LON 2021
R.V. Bass-Hassell LON 2021
P.D. Berkel LON 2022
I.M. Brown LON 2022
A.L. Cuvalay-Halbert LON 2022
A.C. Merkman LON 2022
E. Warner-Woodley LON 2022
Dr. G.O. Wodbura LON 2022
C.E. Bennett-Francis LON 2023
D.D. Humphreys RON 2024
Ulrike Clyde Michael Spanner LON 2025

LON = Lid in de Orde van Oranje-Nassau (Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau)
RON = Ridder in de Orde van Oranje-Nassau (Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau)

If you would like to recommend someone for this prestigious honour, please see the how to nominate someone section above.

Learn More

 For full information about the Royal Decorations system, visit the official website: https://www.lintjes.nl