WASHINGTON, WILLEMSTAD - Despite the steps taken by the Curaçao government, it still does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking, according to the United States Department of State. Even considering the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its capacity to combat human trafficking, Curaçao remains on Tier 3, indicating inadequate efforts are being made.
The Curaçao government implemented some measures to address human trafficking, including providing shelter and other services to two trafficking victims, prosecuting two alleged traffickers, and adopting and funding a National Action Plan (NAP) to enhance enforcement efforts against human trafficking.
However, the new NAP did not include efforts to protect victims or prevent the crime. No traffickers were convicted, and the government continued to offer conditional assistance to foreign victims, including residency permits, based on their cooperation in law enforcement actions against traffickers. The lack of funding remained a primary obstacle to robust anti-trafficking efforts.
Government officials demonstrated limited awareness of human trafficking and confused it with migrants seeking safety, hindering the effectiveness of prosecution, prevention, and protection efforts. Government coordination with civil society organizations and internal departments was inadequate.
Recommendations
According to the United States, Curaçao needs to increase its efforts to identify victims of human trafficking. This would involve giving higher priority to proactive screening of vulnerable populations, such as detained migrants and individuals in the commercial sex industry.
By doing so, potential victims could be better identified, including those who choose not to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in cases against traffickers. These victims also have the right to access necessary services.
Furthermore, it is essential to fully implement the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for victim identification and referral. Training for officials on the use of this procedure could significantly enhance its effectiveness.
Improving coordination and information sharing with anti-trafficking stakeholders within the government, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and civil society is also crucial. This would contribute to a more integrated approach to combating human trafficking.
Prosecution and investigation of crimes related to human trafficking should be vigorously carried out. Convicting traffickers, including complicit officials, and seeking appropriate penalties for convicted traffickers, such as significant prison sentences, would send a strong signal that this crime is not tolerated.
Additionally, more funding should be allocated to victim services, including personnel, specialized care for victims of human trafficking, and services accessible to male victims. Adequate shelter options for all victims of human trafficking, including male victims, are essential.
Sufficient resources need to be allocated and distributed for anti-trafficking efforts. The current NAP should be fully implemented and expanded to include objectives for victim protection and prevention of human trafficking.