MP Sjamira Roseburg: Resilience is where we begin, thriving Is where we choose to go

GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Sjamira Roseburg, Faction Leader of the United Resilient St. Maarten Movement (URSM) on Monday urged the country to move beyond mere survival and embrace a higher calling, to thrive, unite, and lead with integrity in defense of democracy and the promise embedded in St. Maarten’s constitutional status. She delivered her remarks during the solemn public meeting of Parliament to commemorate Constitution Day.

“Some may view this day, Constitution Day, as unimportant or even meaningless,” she began. “After all, a day dedicated to a document can feel abstract when you are dealing with concrete challenges. But let us shift that perspective right now. This day is not about a piece of paper. It's about the leading promise that was made to ourselves, a promise that you must renew and defend every single day.”

Roseburg reminded the public that democracy is never guaranteed, but rather “survives only when people choose to defend it.” She cautioned that democracy around the world is under threat, citing examples of “conflict, oppression, and the denial of basic human rights,” from long-established nations to young countries like St. Maarten.

Referencing global crises such as Gaza and Palestine, she noted they are “reminders of the human cost when freedom is under attack, when voices are silenced, rights denied, and people prevented from fully shaping their future.” She warned that threats to democracy are not confined to distant lands. “These challenges live in gender inequality, in restrictions on youth participation, and in the marginalization of vulnerable groups.”

Roseburg emphasized that democracy “is not merely about elections or laws. It's about ensuring that every voice counts, every person is protected, and every citizen has an opportunity to thrive.”

She also pointed to concerns raised within the Kingdom itself, noting that the Council of State of the Netherlands has warned that democracy is under pressure. “Their reports highlight a crucial truth,” she said. “When politics become about power instead of service, democracy erodes. It reminds us that the health of democracy requires respect for minorities, strong and independent institutions, a free press, and leadership grounded in integrity.”

Turning to St. Maarten’s own experience, Roseburg delivered an honest assessment of the nation’s 15 years of constitutional autonomy, describing them as “characterized by turbulence and instability.” She recalled that “in just 15 years, we have seen a destructive cycle lead to the collapse of government on several occasions.”

“This is not abstract,” she said. “It is an urgent necessity to protect the very foundation of our nation.”

She reminded Parliament and the people of their collective duty: “This Parliament, only 15 years old, carries the duty to strengthen, safeguard, and uphold our democratic principles, ensuring that rights are respected, equality is advanced, and the voices of all citizens are heard, including our youth.”

Roseburg suggested that a national referendum could serve as one avenue to evaluate St. Maarten’s 15-year journey as a country and help chart its path forward.

Reflecting on the island’s endurance through natural disasters, economic uncertainty, and political upheaval, she said, “We have proven resilience. But at this point, resilience is no longer enough. Resilience keeps us standing. Thriving moves us forward. It is time for our country to thrive—to climb the ladder of success for our people, to transform challenges into opportunities, and to flourish with integrity, unity, and purpose.”

Expressing gratitude to those who laid the foundation for St. Maarten’s constitutional status, Roseburg thanked “the pioneers who drafted the Constitution” and “every public servant who held the nation together.”

“To truly thrive,” she continued, “we must serve the country, give the people the best that we can, and respect each other’s role. Political discussions are necessary, but I believe that at this point all noses should point in the same direction. Not because we always agree on the method, but because our shared goal is absolutely clear—a stronger, fairer St. Maarten built on integrity.”

She reaffirmed that integrity must remain the foundation of national progress. “Democracy is sustained not by laws alone, but by the choices and character of those entrusted to uphold them,” Roseburg said. “Constitution Day is a reminder not only of our past achievements, but of the responsibility we hold today to ensure our country moves forward, flourishing and thriving, rather than merely surviving.”

Roseburg challenged the nation to reflect on whether it is truly empowering its people: “Are we creating a St. Maarten that thrives and flourishes for generations to come? Are we empowering especially the ones that are studying abroad, ensuring equality for all, and providing space for every voice to be heard?”

She also emphasized the need for a fair and legitimate voice within the Kingdom Council of Ministers, saying that St. Maarten must continue to advocate for structural reforms to address democratic legitimacy. “The primary decision-making body that affects our future must be truly representative of all who are affected by its policies,” she stated.

In closing, MP Roseburg offered a message of faith and determination. “We are not yet where we should be,” she said. “But with the right people, with real unity, with integrity as our guide, we will reach our full potential. Resilience is where we begin. Thriving is where we choose to go. We have stood firm, and now it is time to rise and build the nation we promised ourselves. May God bless our nation and may God bless the people of St. Maarten.”

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