Why Politics?
I was born and raised around politics. My late father, Everaldo Croes, was heavily involved in politics, and I grew up close to our Liberator Betico Croes. This positive inspiration motivated me to enter the political arena to help my community. My desire is to work for a fairer and more sustainable future for Aruba, where the general welfare of all citizens prevails, which is my priority. Politics is the platform that gives me the opportunity to fight for impactful changes that our country deserves.
What makes Endy the right person for politics?
My commitment to fulfilling what is promised, along with my ability to listen to the wishes of our citizens and a strong sense of social responsibility, combined with truth and transparency, as well as a constant willingness to find solutions to every problem, are fundamental qualities that make me a suitable politician for today’s challenges. The pillars of 21st-century competencies—communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity (the 4Cs)—are my compass for my passion for my country, Aruba.
How do you stay ‘Updated’?
To remain relevant and updated, I stay informed about technological, economic, and socio-cultural developments that impact our country. I participate in forums, attend meetings on diverse topics across ministries, go to symposiums, and consult frequently with experts to ensure my knowledge stays current so that decisions can be based on today’s information.
How do you maintain human contact in a Social Media era?
Although I use social media to connect with many people, I emphasize personal contact. I am very active at various events, especially during weekends, attending sports, cultural, and other community gatherings. Every Saturday, since becoming a Minister in September 2021, I have met with the public as I always promised with an open-door policy with concrete solutions. So, I govern with an open door.
Most urgent challenges?
- Addressing the cost of living and purchasing power for our citizens to bring real relief. Now that we have stabilized our financial situation, achieving a budget surplus for three consecutive years, we have a plan for the next four years to invest in our people to achieve this goal.
- Healthcare: Work on mental health and the issue of returning the necessary medications for our seniors and reducing waiting lists. Now that we have financial room and a plan, this can be achieved.
- Economic Diversification: Concrete steps must be taken to expand our economy beyond reliance on tourism alone. This is a collaborative effort with all stakeholders to achieve this direction.
Crucial areas to address?
Aruba risks losing its natural beauty and biodiversity if we do not act to protect our environment. My plan is to work closely with experts in this area to include stricter, balanced regulations to protect our natural lands, introduce sustainable projects, and further stimulate renewable energy to preserve and strengthen our island for future generations.
What makes an honest politician?
I am committed to complete transparency in my work, constantly reporting and explaining every step to the public. I seek accountability, evaluation of my work, and promote a culture of integrity based on honesty. Do right, even when no one is watching!
How do you maintain your own honesty in politics?
On a small island, I make sure to work openly and transparently to avoid any misinterpretations. It’s important that everyone around you, working alongside you, understands and practices a high level of integrity. I believe that with a heart in the right place and working tirelessly on transparency and integrity, it can be achieved.
Ideal duration for a political career?
A political career should not last forever. A change in leadership is essential to renew and keep innovating, thus avoiding stagnation. I deeply believe a career should have enough time to achieve positive changes.
Vision for the next 4 years?
Everything depends on which portfolio I may receive based on election results.
- Complete the reforms in education. There is an assessment report with 13 recommendations currently under development to elevate our education in its entirety. Lifelong Learning and access to education for everyone are of vital importance. Leaving no one behind. Education is the engine of our country.
- Expand and diversify our economy, keeping the rapid global technological developments as our compass, so that we can adapt quickly. Sustainable energy will be part of this process.
- Continue with the same commitment and determination in major investments, including sports infrastructure and direct investments in our athletes. Providing every athlete with an equal opportunity. Sports are the vehicle that unites a nation.
- Seek to lower the cost of living and improve the purchasing power of our citizens according to our party’s plan, where this is elaborated.
How do you plan to achieve the change you seek?
Through continuous dialogue, which I have already been practicing, with the community, collaboration with experts, and specific action plans based on data and research, I am convinced it can be achieved. This has been demonstrated over the past three years.
"As a politician with a deep passion for serving the people and a determination to achieve significant and noble projects for the general welfare of the entire community, I am committed to representing a fair voice that respects all of Aruba. I propose to work on diversifying the economy, continuing to improve our education, elevate sports to a higher level, and contribute to the infrastructure of the entire country of Aruba. Our motto is to combat the cost of living and improve the purchasing power of our citizens. With the challenges of climate change, the global economy, and rapidly advancing technology, Aruba faces great challenges, but we will overcome all obstacles if we work together and align our resources to help each member of our community. Given the opportunity once again to continue working, I will strive to demonstrate with action the progress we all seek. I am proud to be a part of our beloved rock, Aruba."