Wikipedia states the following:"The term quality of life (QOL) references the general well-being of individuals and societies. The term is used in a wide range of contexts, including the fields of international development, healthcare, and politics. Quality of life should not be confused with the concept of standard of living, which is based primarily on income. Instead, standard indicators of the quality of life include not only wealth and employment, but also the built environment, physical and mental health, education, recreation and leisure time, and social belonging." Another indicator which isn't mentioned would be "safety".
Let's look at the indicators one by one and ask ourselves some questions:
Are we satisfied with projects executed, on-going projects and projects in the (near) future in Sint Maarten? How do you feel about "the Pigeon Coop", Causeway Bridge, Filling of the Great Garbage Pond and The Tunnel(s) of Doom?
Physical and Mental Health: Are we satisfied with our current health care system in Sint Maarten (coverage, service, costs)? How do you feel about general practitioners no longer taking private insurance cards, the Mental Health Foundation which cannot obtain a license to optimally execute its tasks and the ongoing saga at our only hospital the Sint Maarten Medical Center?
Education: Are we satisfied with the set up of our current educational system in Sint Maarten (drop-out rate, level of education, accessibility)? How do you feel about schools lacking stationary and lesson materials, drug abuse in and around schools and gang fights in and around schools?
Recreation and Leisure Time: Are we satisfied with the recreation facilities offered in Sint Maarten (accessibility, costs)? How do you feel about the lack of recreational facilities (besides the natural locations)?
Social Belonging: Are we satisfied with the amount of community activities in Sint Maarten (church groups, trade-unions, community foundations)? How do you feel about the level and amount of events organized by community groups?
Safety: Are we satisfied with the current justice system in Sint Maarten? How do you feel about the crime rate and your safety?
Now let's ask ourselves one final question:
What can the government do, what can you do and what can we do as a community to increase the quality of life in Sint Maarten? #sxmmovement
Soualiga Social Movement
