The E8 initiative was born from an invitation by Arno Brok, King’s Commissioner in Friesland, to build stronger ties between the island governments.
Jonathan Johnson, Island Governor of Saba, highlighted the importance of shared experiences and support:
“Arno extended an invitation to us because he knew what we were going through on our islands and saw the similarities. We look forward to working together with the Dutch European islands. There’s so much we can learn from each other, and it’s great to have the VNG and BZK here as well, we need them to help bring some of these ideas to life.”
Island Governor of St. Eustatius, Alida Francis, described the connection between the islands as both inspiring and familiar.
“In every conversation I’ve had here, even just this morning, I’m learning so much,” said Governor Francis. “In Sint Eustatius, resilience is in our DNA. Listening to my colleagues speak about managing a €17 million responsibility with a €10 million budget over 50 years, your story sounds so much like our story.”
The E8 follows in the footsteps of other successful partnerships in the Netherlands, such as the G4 (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht) and the G40 (a group of mid-sized cities). Like those networks, the E8 will allow small island communities to support each other and advocate together on national issues.
The islands face many of the same challenges, including transportation, healthcare, tourism, housing, and economic development. For example, Saba and Statia currently receive only three flights per day, down from six before the COVID-19 pandemic. Vlieland, similarly, sees just three ferry connections daily.
While the islands share many similarities, differences in treatment and resources remain. “Residents of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba are Dutch citizens too,” noted Commissioner Brok. “But national policy doesn’t always treat them the same. That raises important questions of fairness.”
The Public Entity Saba is pleased to be apart the of newly formed E8 as this opportunity will lead to further exchange of knowledge, influence on policy, and standing together for the betterment of all islanders.
