Evaluation of Cultural Heritage Protection in the Caribbean Netherlands: Strong Legal Foundation, but Implementation Needs Strengthening

Commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW), Ecorys, in collaboration with Lyongo Architecture, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Monumentenwet BES (Monuments Act for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba). The study concludes that while the legislation provides a solid legal framework for protecting cultural heritage, its implementation on the islands faces significant structural challenges.

Covering the period from 2010 to 2024, the evaluation is based on desk research and interviews with stakeholders across the islands and within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The findings reveal that a lack of capacity, financial resources and expertise continues to hinder effective heritage management. None of the three islands currently has a fully functioning monuments committee, monument registers are outdated or incomplete, and financial support for monument owners is limited.

These shortcomings have tangible consequences. Many protected monuments are in poor condition, and the designation of new protected sites has largely come to a standstill in recent years. In addition, there is considerable uncertainty regarding definitions, procedures, and the rights and responsibilities of monument owners.

The study also highlights significant differences between the islands. Bonaire has a relatively comprehensive overview of its cultural heritage, while monument protection on Saba is still in its early stages. Sint Eustatius, meanwhile, struggles with outdated registrations and uncertainty surrounding protected sites. As a result, a tailored approach is required for each island.

A key challenge identified by the researchers is the lack of structural funding. Unlike the European Netherlands, where several subsidy schemes are available for heritage preservation, financial support in the Caribbean Netherlands remains limited. This weakens both the preservation of cultural heritage and public support for its protection.

The researchers emphasise that legislation alone is not enough. Effective heritage protection requires active implementation, sustainable funding and strong local engagement. To strengthen monument protection across the Caribbean Netherlands, the report recommends investing in implementation capacity, reactivating or establishing monuments committees, updating monument registers and providing structural financial support.

For more information, please contact Michel Briene, Elvira Meurs or Eline Punt.

Link to report

https://www.tweedekamer.nl/kamerstukken/detail?id=2026D26581&did=2026D26581