The Bonaire Human Rights Organization (BHRO) and Muhernan Fuerte Bonaire, the women’s wing of the Progressive People’s Party, proudly announced the success of their recent public lecture on the future and human rights of Bonaire. The event attracted a full audience, demonstrating the community’s strong interest in Bonaire’s self-determination and international recognition.
The lecture began with a warm and humble welcome from a young Bonairean, Gairo Frans, whose words set a tone of unity, reflection, and community participation.
Davika Bissessar Shaw, President of BHRO, reflected on the 985 days that James Finies spent abroad advocating for Bonaire at the international level in Latin America, the Caribbean, North America, and Europe. She presented photos documenting his meetings with presidents, prime ministers, ambassadors, UN rapporteurs, and global NGOs, highlighting how these efforts raised Bonaire’s voice on the global stage.
James Finies, founder of BHRO and political leader of the Progressive People’s Party, gave an extensive presentation on the benefits of returning Bonaire to the United Nations List of Non-Self-Governing Territories. He detailed the legal, social, and economic advantages for the island while reviewing the historical context and the ongoing campaign for self-determination.
Sedney Marten, President of the Movement for Change, deeply moved the audience with a heartfelt poem, “Kome i Lembe”, emphasizing the emotional and cultural significance of Bonaire’s current reality.
Legal Clarity from a UN Perspective
The lecture’s highlight, “Can Bonaire be placed back on the List after being removed in 1955?”, was presented by Professor Dr. Byron-Cox, a UN lawyer specializing in international public law. He clearly explained how returning Bonaire to the list is procedurally and legally possible, providing clarity and hope to the community.
Keval Anthony Bissessar, LLM, strongly represented the youth of Bonaire, sharing testimony about the power of unity and referring to Aruba’s historical trajectory and the legacy of Betico Croes. He encouraged Bonaireans to “start with a blank page” and define their own future together.
The audience showed a high level of active participation, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the clarity, expertise, and vision shared. Many expressed hope and determination to continue supporting Bonaire’s ongoing international struggle.
What was particularly remarkable and disappointing was that no elected politicians showed interest or were present, their absence strongly felt.
BHRO considers this lecture a major and important step in educating, uniting, and empowering the people of Bonaire, reaffirming Bonaire’s legitimate place in global discussions on self-determination and human rights.
