Bonaire's PPP-UNI calls for UN recognition, new hospital and university in eight-point plan

KRALENDIJK, BONAIRE--The Partido Pueblo Progresivo (PPP-UNI), founded and politically led by longtime Bonaire activist James Finies, has unveiled an eight-point development agenda that includes seeking the island's placement on the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories, constructing a modern hospital, establishing a university and technical training institutions, and strengthening the protection of Papiamentu and Bonaire's cultural identity.

The proposals were presented on Tuesday, November 10, alongside the introduction of the party's newly elected board, headed by President Marjolein Finies, who will oversee the organization's leadership and administrative direction.

James Finies, who officially launched the political movement in September 2026, has been a prominent advocate for greater recognition of Bonaire's constitutional rights and has pursued the island's political and development concerns through international forums, including the United Nations.

Under the motto "Every Resident Comes First," PPP-UNI says its agenda is intended to address longstanding concerns involving healthcare, education, economic development, constitutional rights, the cost of living and opportunities for Bonaireans, particularly young people.

Seeks UN Recognition Without Calling for Independence

Among the party's central priorities is its proposal to have Bonaire included on the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories, a move PPP-UNI says would strengthen international recognition of the Kingdom of the Netherlands' responsibilities toward the island's population.

The initiative builds on James Finies' longstanding international advocacy concerning Bonaire's constitutional position and the rights of its residents.

The party emphasized that its objective is not necessarily independence or separation from the Kingdom, but rather recognition of obligations established under Chapter XI of the United Nations Charter.

Specifically, PPP-UNI points to Article 73, which addresses the responsibilities of states administering territories whose populations have not attained full self-government.

The party argues that these responsibilities include promoting economic, social and educational advancement, respecting local culture and identity, recognizing the political aspirations of residents and supporting the development of self-government.

PPP-UNI also intends to use international human rights mechanisms to raise concerns about inequalities in development, infrastructure, social protection and economic opportunities.

The proposal represents the party's political position and does not constitute a change in Bonaire's existing constitutional status.

New Hospital and Expanded Healthcare Services

Healthcare is another major component of the party's development agenda.

PPP-UNI is proposing the construction of a modern hospital at a location between Rincon and Playa, equipped with an Intensive Care Unit, improved diagnostic facilities and a wider range of specialized medical services.

The party wants more medical specialists to live and work permanently on Bonaire, reducing the need for residents to travel overseas for certain treatments.

According to PPP-UNI, expanding the island's healthcare capabilities would improve access to medical services and help address challenges associated with obtaining specialized care abroad.

University and Technical Training Institutions Proposed

The party is also advocating the establishment of a university offering bachelor's degree programs, a technical institute providing practical and professional education, and a specialized hospitality school.

The proposed institutions would focus on creating educational and employment opportunities for Bonaire's population while strengthening the island's capacity to train professionals locally.

PPP-UNI believes greater access to higher education could reduce the need for students to leave Bonaire to pursue qualifications and help develop a workforce better prepared for the island's economic needs.

The proposed hospitality institution would emphasize tourism, hotel management and related industries, while technical training would support a broader range of professional skills.

Education Reform and Protection of Papiamentu

The party has also identified education reform and the protection of Papiamentu as priorities.

PPP-UNI maintains that Bonaire's secondary education system should better reflect the linguistic and cultural background of local students while preparing them for higher education and employment.

It intends to pursue international human rights mechanisms to advocate reforms that respect Bonaire's linguistic and cultural identity.

The party is additionally calling for public institutions and government services to ensure that staff can communicate effectively in Papiamentu, allowing residents to access essential services in their own language.

Economic Development, Port Expansion and Returning Professionals

Another proposal involves strengthening Bonaire's port infrastructure through the development of improved cargo-handling facilities, including a container terminal.

PPP-UNI believes greater capacity to receive cargo directly could reduce transportation costs, improve the distribution of goods and potentially contribute to lowering consumer prices.

The party also wants to encourage Bonairean students and professionals living abroad to return home through incentives involving housing assistance, employment opportunities and support for business development.

Its agenda identifies the Fontein area as another potential center for economic and cultural development, particularly for residents of Rincon.

The proposal includes agricultural production, a cultural park, a traditional Creole kitchen and the development of Fontein Square, combining economic activity with cultural preservation.

Marjolein Finies Heads Newly Elected Board

While James Finies serves as the party's political leader and founder, the newly elected PPP-UNI board is headed by President Marjolein Finies, with Wilbert Pourier serving as Vice-President.

Sedney Marten has been appointed Secretary, Rene Flores Treasurer, Enzo Finies Second Secretary, Tulsie Bissessar Second Treasurer and Henry George Commissioner.

The party says its leadership will focus on transparent governance, public accountability, social justice, affordable housing, economic opportunities and the protection of Bonaire's environment and cultural heritage.

PPP-UNI has invited residents, community organizations, businesses and other stakeholders to participate in discussions surrounding its proposals.

While the party has outlined its priorities, the announcement does not provide detailed financing arrangements or implementation schedules for the major infrastructure and educational projects.

The proposals form part of PPP-UNI's broader political agenda, which the party says is intended to ensure that Bonaire's development reflects the needs, rights and aspirations of its residents.

‍