WILLEMSTAD – The Senso 2023 has highlighted several significant trends, including a slight decline in religious affiliation, evolving marriage patterns, and improvements in employment. Health remains a key concern, with high blood pressure and diabetes among the most common conditions. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and the broader community.
Religious Affiliation
The census data indicates that the majority of the population still identifies as Roman Catholic, with over 68% adhering to the faith in 2023—a slight decrease from previous years. Other religious groups, such as Pentecostals (nearly 6%), Protestants (3%), and Adventists (almost 1%), represent smaller portions of the population. Notably, more than 3% of respondents reported having no religious affiliation.
Marriage and Civil Status
Nearly half of Curaçao’s population is unmarried, while one-third is legally married. Divorce rates stand at nearly 8%, with almost 7% of the population being widowed. Registered partnerships account for just over 3% of relationships. These figures indicate a gradual shift in marriage patterns compared to previous censuses.
Health and Employment
According to the census, almost 65% of the population reported having no illness. Among those with health conditions, high blood pressure is the most common, affecting 29,000 people. Other prevalent health issues include diabetes (13,000 cases), asthma or chronic bronchitis (5,000 cases), glaucoma/eye diseases (4,000 cases), and obesity (3,000 cases). Smaller groups suffer from conditions such as dementia, epilepsy, and sickle cell disease.
On the employment front, unemployment has declined compared to 2011. In 2023, the general unemployment rate stands at 7%, down from 10% in 2011. Youth unemployment has also improved, dropping from 23% in 2011 to 15% in 2023. These trends suggest a positive shift in the labor market, potentially due to economic growth or targeted government employment policies.
Population Growth and Aging
Curaçao’s population has grown to over 155,000 residents, consisting of just over 70,000 men and more than 85,000 women—an increase of over 5,000 people (3.5%) since the 2011 census. The gender ratio continues to decline, with 82 men per 100 women in 2023, compared to 84 per 100 women in 2011.
The island is also experiencing significant aging. In 2023, nearly a quarter (24%) of the population is 65 or older, compared to 14% in 2011 and just 5% in 1960. The median age has now surpassed 45 years, driven by declining birth rates and increased life expectancy.
Migration and Digital Presence
Migration continues to shape Curaçao’s demographics, with most migrants arriving between the ages of 15 and 50. Dutch nationals form the largest migrant group, with more than half having lived on the island for over 10 years, and approximately 30% for more than 20 years.
In terms of digital presence, as of January 2023, Curaçao had 130,500 internet users, representing an internet penetration rate of 68.1%. Additionally, there were 108,800 social media users, making up 56.8% of the total population.
The Senso 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of Curaçao’s evolving social landscape, offering valuable data to inform future policies and development strategies.
