USM Hosts Panel on Climate Justice and Bonaire Ruling
February 23, 2026
Following a historic Dutch court decision on climate protection in Bonaire, USM convenes experts and community voices to unpack what the ruling means for St. Martin and the Caribbean. The discussion highlights human rights, governance, and the future of island resilience.
USM is preparing to host a timely and important public panel discussion titled “Climate Justice on Trial: What the Bonaire & Greenpeace Court Victory Means for St. Martin.”
Ahead of the event, USM President Dr. Antonio Carmona Báez, moderator Naomi Jankee, and Research Coordinator Jessurun met to finalize discussion points and ensure a meaningful and engaging conversation for attendees. The session reflects USM’s continued commitment to fostering dialogue on issues that directly impact St. Martin and the wider Caribbean region.
In January 2026, a Dutch court ruled that the Netherlands failed to adequately protect the people of Bonaire from the impacts of climate change. Grounded in human rights and principles of equality, the decision has significant implications for island territories within the Kingdom and beyond. The ruling raises important questions about government responsibility, environmental protection, and the rights of vulnerable communities facing climate risks.
The upcoming panel will unpack the court decision in clear and accessible terms, exploring what it could mean for St. Martin and other Caribbean islands. Discussions will focus on climate justice, governance, accountability, and the broader intersection between environmental protection and human rights.
Moderating the discussion is Naomi Jankee, a Master’s student in Sustainable Development from Utrecht University. She will guide a dynamic exchange aimed at encouraging thoughtful engagement among policymakers, students, researchers, and members of the public.
As a higher education institution rooted in the community, USM continues to provide a platform for informed dialogue on pressing regional and global issues. Climate change remains one of the most urgent challenges facing small island territories, making conversations such as these essential for shaping future policy and action.
The public panel discussion will take place on February 24, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at the USM Lecture Hall, with a webinar option available for those who wish to join virtually.
Community members are encouraged to participate in this important discussion about the future of St. Martin and other island communities.
Webinar Registration Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XsCqVltKQzKh5di-PvDrrg
Webinar ID: 820 8602 7126
Passcode: 993410
Latest News →
Ahead of the event, USM President Dr. Antonio Carmona Báez, moderator Naomi Jankee, and Research Coordinator Jessurun met to finalize discussion points and ensure a meaningful and engaging conversation for attendees. The session reflects USM’s continued commitment to fostering dialogue on issues that directly impact St. Martin and the wider Caribbean region.
In January 2026, a Dutch court ruled that the Netherlands failed to adequately protect the people of Bonaire from the impacts of climate change. Grounded in human rights and principles of equality, the decision has significant implications for island territories within the Kingdom and beyond. The ruling raises important questions about government responsibility, environmental protection, and the rights of vulnerable communities facing climate risks.
The upcoming panel will unpack the court decision in clear and accessible terms, exploring what it could mean for St. Martin and other Caribbean islands. Discussions will focus on climate justice, governance, accountability, and the broader intersection between environmental protection and human rights.
Moderating the discussion is Naomi Jankee, a Master’s student in Sustainable Development from Utrecht University. She will guide a dynamic exchange aimed at encouraging thoughtful engagement among policymakers, students, researchers, and members of the public.
As a higher education institution rooted in the community, USM continues to provide a platform for informed dialogue on pressing regional and global issues. Climate change remains one of the most urgent challenges facing small island territories, making conversations such as these essential for shaping future policy and action.
The public panel discussion will take place on February 24, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at the USM Lecture Hall, with a webinar option available for those who wish to join virtually.
Community members are encouraged to participate in this important discussion about the future of St. Martin and other island communities.
Webinar Registration Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XsCqVltKQzKh5di-PvDrrg
Webinar ID: 820 8602 7126
Passcode: 993410
Latest News →
