Decolonization of Aruba within the Netherlands Antilles

Abstract

This chapter addresses the most critical issues emanating from the current debate over these issues, and will outline the policy choices facing Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles from a geopolitical and juridical perspective. Since 29 December 1954, the Netherlands Antilles, consisting of the Leeward and Windward Islands, have been an autonomous and self-governing political entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The harder the Dutch pushed, the resistance of the West towards engaging in discussions about decolonization became greater, and the attention paid to the pressing domestic problems in the West lessened. The other pillar allegedly supporting the process of independence was the Cooperation Agreement, reached between Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles in 1984, following the Round Table Conference in 1983. Presently, the five islands of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba are striving for recognition of their right to self-determination, in the sense of being able to choose between independence or continued association/integration with the Netherlands.