“The lasting effects of colonialism in St. Martin go beyond identity loss and assimilation. The island’s people continue to face the consequences of the Franco-Dutch treaty signed by France and the Netherlands, which governs the island. These people have endured unimaginable injustice, which is a stain on humanity. Dividing the territory into two parts under two colonial rulers caused displacements, tore apart families, destroyed their social fabric, and plunged them into despair,” said MP Parvana Valiyeva, speaking at the international conference titled “French and Dutch Colonialism on St. Martin – One Island, One People, One Destiny,” organized by the Baku Initiative Group on December 6.
“Yes, the northern and southern parts of Saint Martin are colonized by different European countries in the 21st century, when people fly to the skies independently; even, they can gain land on Mars. But this development’s bill shouldn’t be paid by nations that are poor because of the riches of others. The people of St. Martin are one, although colonialism has divided them into two parts, but they face a similar fate. In a purposeful manner, it was calculated to weaken the local people’s ability in both parts to overcome these shared challenges. The colonial powers use St. Martin's resources for their own benefit, under the false idea of helping the development of the island. But it is apparent that deep economic monopoly and degradation continue to harm the people of St. Martin,” Parvana Valiyeva added.
