THE HAGUE – The Dutch government has appointed Gerbert Kunst as the new Representative of the Netherlands in Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten, effective May 15, 2025. He will succeed Saskia de Reuver, who has temporarily taken on the role.

Kunst is currently the Director of International Policy at the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science (OCW). He has an extensive international background, having previously served as Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in San Francisco and as Director of European and International Affairs at the Ministry of Economic Affairs. He holds a degree in law from Leiden University, along with an MBA and an MPA.

As the Representative of the Netherlands in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom, Kunst will play a key role in fostering cooperation between the Netherlands and the three autonomous countries. The Dutch Representation in Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten (VNACS) supports policy, coordinates crisis assistance, and provides help to Dutch citizens in need.

Kunst emphasizes the importance of equal partnership within the Kingdom. “I look forward to being the connecting link between the Netherlands and our partners in the region, working closely with my team,” he said. Zsolt Szabó, Secretary of State for Kingdom Relations, described him as a “bridge builder” with substantial experience in both international and Dutch politics.

With Kunst’s appointment, the Netherlands aims to further strengthen its ties with Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.