WILLEMSTAD – The Council of Advice (RvA) has expressed strong criticism regarding the quality of legislative proposals initiated by members of Curaçao’s Parliament (Staten). In its 2024 annual report, the RvA notes that expert recommendations from advisory institutions are often ignored, resulting in inadequate legal texts and poorly substantiated explanatory notes. 

This assessment is reflected in the dicta the RvA attaches to its advice. In three instances in 2024, the Council issued Dictum 3, its most serious rating, indicating significant objections to the proposed legislation. 

The RvA warns that disregarding expert advice undermines the legislative process and, by extension, the quality of democratic decision-making. It stresses that legislative proposals—especially those dealing with complex legal issues—must be carefully prepared and thoroughly vetted. 

The Council urges Members of Parliament to give serious consideration to independent advisory opinions and emphasizes the importance of sound legislative drafting to ensure laws are both effective and legally robust.