THE HAGUE – The Dutch government acknowledges that population aging and the departure of large segments of the working population—particularly on Curaçao—are putting increasing pressure on public services, healthcare, and social security across the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. The concerns are outlined in the cabinet’s formal response to the most recent Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) agreements.
According to the cabinet, the demographic shift affecting Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten is being driven by two key factors. On the one hand, immigration has boosted employment in certain sectors, but on the other, Curaçao in particular is experiencing “ontgroening,” a shrinking active workforce as young professionals move abroad. This combination accelerates aging and reduces the number of contributors to social systems.
Given the small scale of the islands, these demographic changes have immediate and profound consequences, the cabinet states. They affect healthcare capacity, pension systems, labor markets, and the financial sustainability of social protections.
Cooperation Within the Landspakketten
To address the growing strain, the Netherlands says it is collaborating with the countries through the Landspakket framework to develop long-term solutions that can keep healthcare and social security systems financially viable. Den Haag emphasizes that the countries require structural reforms, better demographic planning, and coordinated policy across multiple sectors.
The cabinet also highlights support for strengthening cooperation between the countries themselves, particularly in planning long-term economic development. The aim is to help create more resilient economies capable of absorbing demographic shocks.
No New Financial Commitments
While the cabinet acknowledges the seriousness of the demographic challenges, the letter contains no new funding commitments or concrete policy measures. Instead, the government reiterates its willingness to assist within existing agreements and emphasizes the importance of shared responsibility among all Kingdom partners.
The issue of demographic decline and aging is expected to remain a central topic in Kingdom relations, especially as pressures on healthcare, labor supply, and social services continue to mount across the islands.