WILLEMSTAD - A total of 68 individuals have lost their Dutch nationality in recent years as a result of enhanced verification measures in Curaçao. This was confirmed by Minister of Justice Shalten Hato during a parliamentary Q&A session on Thursday. The policy was introduced to check individuals renewing their passports at Kranshi, the civil registry office.
Member of Parliament Ana-Maria Pauletta raised concerns about the issue, highlighting that the policy has led to some long-term residents of the island losing their Dutch nationality. Pauletta emphasized that these individuals have lived in Curaçao for many years but are now facing the loss of their citizenship.
The policy was implemented in response to widespread fraud involving documents from citizens of the Dominican Republic. Minister Hato acknowledged that it remains difficult to estimate how many more people may lose their Dutch nationality due to the ongoing checks.
The situation has sparked debate over the implications for affected residents, raising concerns about their legal status and future rights on the island.