ABSTRACT
The Dutch Caribbean has a long history in the Americas, playing a role in the development of commerce in the region, international finance and the global oil industry. Like the Netherlands, the Dutch islands have maintained significant external exposures. In a sense, the international system is their bread and butter business. In times of extended globalization this has served the islands well. In times when the world has moved to less trade and cross-border investment and movement of people, the Dutch islands have been severely challenged. The 2020s are likely to be another testing period for the Dutch Caribbean.
