The island of Sint Maarten is divided into two nations, sharing one island. The South known as the Dutch Side is a semi-autonomous nation within the Dutch Kingdom, while the North known as the French Side is apart of the French Collectivité.

 

The local population is less than 80,000.

 

Sint Maarteners are a small minority group within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Despite such small numbers, Sint Maarten's population is amongst the most diverse in the world and its community is quite dense due to the island's small square footage. As a cultural melting pot, Sint Maarten is a cultural hotspot and hub for breeding incredible talent across various fields. No two Sint Maarteners are alike, yet they carry an energy and spirit like no other.

 

As a small island nation, protecting the culture and identity of this land is so important. Finding Sint Maarten historical and cultural artifacts outside of the island and Kingdom is near impossible. As a minority group, Sint Maarten has yet to make major waves in the digitally connected market largely due to the lack of infrastructure and support for locals within this community. As a result, the Sint Maarten Diaspora slows the local growth of the island due to the impacts of brain drain. Those abroad struggle to find tangible methods to maintain their connection to the island outside of family and previous friend circles. This can result in a type of cultural isolation few can relate to.

 

There is no place like Sint Maarten.

For that, it is should be protected.