BONHATA worried: political instability is harming the economy and tourism sector

KRALENDIJK – BONHATA, the trade association for hotels and tourism businesses on Bonaire, has expressed serious concerns about the island’s ongoing political instability and its consequences for the economy and the tourism sector. According to the organisation, Bonaire is on the verge of entering its fifth governing crisis in less than three years, following the resignation of deputy Joselito Statia.

BONHATA points out that between October 2023 and 31 March 2026, Bonaire has already experienced four confirmed collapses of government. According to the organisation, each change in administration leads to new priorities, new points of contact and delays in policy areas that require a consistent long-term approach. Issues specifically mentioned include spatial planning, sustainable development, infrastructure and the balance between economic growth and the island’s carrying capacity.

The trade association stresses that the Bonairean economy is more dependent on tourism than ever before. The sector provides employment for thousands of residents and represents a vital source of income for hotels, restaurants, dive schools, transport companies and retail businesses.

According to BONHATA, the political turmoil is already having noticeable consequences. Permit procedures are being delayed, investment decisions are being postponed and plans for the further development of nature and tourism are stalling. At the same time, the cost of living and doing business continues to rise, partly due to the recent increase in electricity tariffs. Workers in the tourism sector are feeling the impact of these developments directly in their disposable income, the organisation says.

BONHATA says its concerns are no longer based solely on expectations. The organisation reports receiving signals from member businesses about declining occupancy rates and growing uncertainty about the near future. The economic consequences of the administrative standstill are, it says, already beginning to materialise.

Stable governance vital for the sector

BONHATA is calling on political parties to give greater weight to the interests of the tourism sector and the broader Bonairean community, rather than allowing political divisions and personal interests to prevail. The organisation advocates for stable governance and a predictable policy environment, so that entrepreneurs, employees and investors can once again count on continuity and long-term planning.