In Aruba, Generation Z is emerging as a powerful force for change, demanding more action on key issues like environmental protection, economic inequality, and social justice. Young Arubans are increasingly criticizing older generations for not doing enough to address systemic problems that have been building for decades. This generational divide, already evident in other parts of the world, is becoming more pronounced in the Caribbean, with Gen Z questioning whether previous generations—particularly Generation X and older Millennials—have pushed hard enough for necessary reforms.

Environmental Concerns: A Ticking Clock

One of the most urgent concerns for young Arubans is the environment. Despite the island’s heavy dependence on tourism and its fragile ecosystem, there has been minimal political will to combat issues such as coastal erosion, plastic pollution, and climate change. Gen Z argues that older generations failed to prioritize environmental protection when they had the chance. While previous governments have made efforts to promote green energy, young environmental activists feel that these efforts are too little, too late.

“They should have invested in sustainable tourism and green energy years ago. Now, we’re dealing with rising sea levels, disappearing nature, and global warming because they didn’t act quickly enough,” one young environmentalist says. Frustration is growing as Gen Z feels the weight of having to solve the environmental crisis while older generations still hold much of the political power.

Economic Inequality and Job Opportunities

Another major issue driving the generational divide is economic inequality. While Aruba’s tourism industry has provided many jobs, it has also created significant economic disparities, leaving some sectors of the population without stable employment or decent wages. For younger Arubans entering the job market, the economic imbalance feels like an unjust inheritance.

Many members of Gen Z are finding that the job market offers little stability, which is compounded by the island’s high cost of living. They argue that older generations did not adequately address the growing inequality, allowing businesses to thrive while the working class, including young professionals, struggle to find opportunities and build financial security.

Political Apathy and Inaction

Gen Z in Aruba is also frustrated by what they perceive as political apathy from older generations. They see a history of missed opportunities for systemic change, with previous governments failing to implement policies that would improve the quality of life for all Arubans. Issues such as elder care, social inequality, and affordable housing remain major concerns.

“There were conversations about reform, but nothing ever really changes,” says a local activist. “We keep hearing promises about better elder care and affordable housing, but we’re still waiting for real action. We don’t want more words—we want results.”

Changing the Narrative

While older generations have often focused on stability and maintaining the status quo, Gen Z is pushing for bold changes. The current generation wants more than just incremental reforms—they are demanding large-scale actions to address the most urgent problems facing Aruba. Younger Arubans are more likely to call for transparency and accountability from politicians, expecting them to take swift action on the issues that threaten their future.

A Call to Action

Generation Z is urging older generations to join them in the fight for a better Aruba. While they recognize the challenges that previous generations have faced, they believe now is the time for significant and meaningful change. The question remains whether Generation X and older Millennials will rise to the occasion and work with Gen Z to create a more sustainable and just Aruba.