The President of the Integrity Chamber of Sint Maarten, Mr. Rik Bergman, delivered a keynote address on Wednesday, January 28 at the CPB BES Symposium 2026, held under the theme “Borderless Digital Data and Privacy: Kingdom Perspectives on Security, Fundamental Rights, and Opportunities.” The CPB BES Symposium 2026 brought together experts and stakeholders from across the Kingdom to examine the challenges and opportunities presented by borderless digital data.
In his presentation, titled “Integrity and Good Governance in a Data-Driven World,” Mr. Bergman reflected on the rapid pace of digitalization and its impact on governance, privacy, and public trust. While technological developments offer unprecedented efficiency and connectivity, he emphasized that they also introduce significant integrity risks that must be addressed thoughtfully and proactively, particularly within small communities.
Mr. Bergman highlighted several integrity challenges that have become increasingly visible in the digital age, including the leaking of confidential information, the spread of misinformation and digital manipulation through artificial intelligence, and cyberattacks targeting both public and private institutions. He stressed that such incidents are not merely technical failures but matters of integrity that directly affect societal stability and public confidence. In small communities, he noted, the handling of information reflects shared values and norms, making integrity in data management both a technical and cultural responsibility.
Referring to regional and international examples, Mr. Bergman illustrated how breaches of digital systems can have far-reaching financial and social consequences.
Mr. Bergman emphasized that safeguarding digital integrity requires more than technological safeguards alone. He provided a four‑step approach to building a structured culture of integrity in data. He emphasized the need to embed clear procedures and integrity policies, ensure compliance and accountability, foster openness and transparency within organizations, and promote ethical leadership at every level of society. Together, these elements create the foundation for trust and responsible data practices, particularly in small communities where integrity must be consistently demonstrated through action.
Mr. Bergman concluded with provided recommendations to strengthen a culture of integrity, privacy, and security in small societies. He emphasized the importance of regularly updating digital policies, reinforcing compliance structures, fostering openness and dialogue, and promoting ethical leadership through continuous education. He noted that building such a culture takes time, often a generation, and highlighted the value of starting small, starting early, and engaging citizens, professionals, and leaders in ongoing conversation. He concluded with a call to action for the leaders present at the symposium to actively champion these principles within their own organizations and communities.
The Integrity Chamber of Sint Maarten thanks the CBP BES for the invitation to participate in this necessary and timely conversation. The Integrity Chamber remains committed to raising awareness about the importance of integrity within the Kingdom and beyond and welcomes continued collaboration to strengthen good governance, protect fundamental rights, and promote societal resilience in an increasingly digital world.
For more information about the Integrity Chamber and its work, please visit www.integritychamber.sx.
