COVID-19, Food Security and Economic Diversity in Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten

Food security in small island communities primarily dependent on tourism is problematic. The small land area and high population density combined with the pressure of tourism make it impossible to meet the full food needs with a conventional approach. Dependence on external food producers is inevitable for continuity of high-quality food supply. Partly meeting food needs is possible through local food production. Its development also contributes to the necessary diversification of the economy. This project examines the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic by asking local stakeholders about food production and availability, economic impact and employment in the sector as well as nutritional practices. Analysis of the collected data provides a picture of the resilience of the food chain and the associated potential for economic diversification.