Steps Forward: Advancing Research in a Challenging Landscape

At CBHRI, we believe that research should be relevant, accessible, and responsive to the health needs of the communities it serves. Since 2016, we have worked to strengthen biomedical and public health research capacity in Curaçao and contribute to a stronger research environment in the wider Caribbean.

Building sustainable research capacity in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) presents particular challenges. Small populations, geographic isolation, limited research infrastructure and funding opportunities, and underrepresentation in international research programmes can make it more difficult for Caribbean researchers and institutions to develop and sustain locally relevant research.

For CBHRI, these challenges reinforce the importance of investing in local research capacity, developing scientific expertise, strengthening regional and international partnerships, and creating opportunities for Caribbean researchers to participate in high-quality research.

Despite these constraints, CBHRI has continued to develop its research activities step by step. Through research projects, collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the support of partners and funding organizations, we are working to build a stronger and more sustainable foundation for health research in Curaçao and the wider Caribbean.

Since 2016, CBHRI has continued to broaden its research activities and multidisciplinary expertise.

• Expanded its research activities across biomedical, epidemiological, social, and healthcare research.
• Developed multidisciplinary research capacity across six research departments.
• Supported research projects addressing health questions relevant to Curaçao and the wider Caribbean.
• Built collaborations with researchers, healthcare organizations, universities, and research institutions within and beyond the region.
• Expanded its scope to include Medial Education and Quality of Care, strengthening the connection between research, professional development, healthcare delivery, and health systems.

CBHRI aims to continue strengthening the environment for high-quality research in Curaçao and the wider Caribbean.

Our priorities include:

• Further developing local and regional research capacity.
• Strengthening multidisciplinary and cross-institutional collaboration.
• Supportin the development and implementation of research projects relevant to regional heath needs.
• Creating opportunities for researchers and healthcare professionals to participate in research and knowledge exchange.
• Expanding regional and international research partnerships where these contribute to CBHRI’s research objectives.
• Continuing to strengthen the systems and support needed to conduct responsible, high-quality research.

Progress in research depends on collaboration. CBHRI therefore welcomes opportunities to work with researchers, healthcare organizations, academic institutions, and other partners whose expertise and objectives align with our research mission.

By strengthening connections within Curaçao, across the Caribbean, and internationally, we aim to contribute to a sustainable research environment that supports knowledge, health, and healthcare in the region.