WILLEMSTAD – A detailed review of the Curaçao Parliament’s budget has revealed that the legislative body significantly overspent on travel and accommodation abroad in 2024. While the original budget allocated ANG 595,000 for travel expenses, actual spending reached nearly ANG 710,000. 

This increase in travel costs—particularly for attendance at Parlatino (Latin American Parliament) meetings—has long been a controversial issue. Critics question the added value of these international gatherings, arguing that there is little evidence of tangible benefits for the people of Curaçao. Parliamentarians, however, maintain that these meetings do offer value through diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation. 

As early as the first half of 2024, it became clear that the allocated travel budget would not suffice. In response, the Parliament has now budgeted ANG 880,000 for travel in both 2025 and 2026. 

The debate over parliamentary travel spending is likely to continue, as transparency and public accountability remain key concerns among citizens and watchdog organizations.