NEW YORK – Bonaire Human Rights Organization (BHRO) representative James Finies has called for greater democratic participation and inclusion for Bonaire during a side event at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on sustainable development.
Addressing delegates from governments, the UN, academia and civil society, Finies argued that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot be fully achieved if key decisions affecting Bonaire continue to be made in the European Netherlands rather than by the island’s own people.
He questioned how the international community can uphold its commitment to “leave no one behind” while, according to him, Bonaire lacks meaningful participation in decisions shaping its future. Finies said that inclusion, democratic participation, accountability and the right to self-determination should be recognized as essential conditions for sustainable development.
Previously raised concerns
The intervention builds on concerns previously raised by BHRO before UN human rights bodies regarding poverty, inequality, cultural identity and participation in decision-making on Bonaire.
