WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao is experiencing accelerated ageing across both its local and migrant populations, with several migrant groups showing a sharp rise in residents aged 65 or older. The trend, known as “double ageing,” is highlighted in the latest CBS migration report from Census 2023.
Ageing Is No Longer Only a Local-Born Trend
CBS notes that nearly all migrant communities — whether from Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Suriname, Aruba, Portugal or the BES islands — now have a larger elderly share than they did in 2011.
The data shows:
Migrants from Portugal and Aruba have the highest average age
Venezuelan migrants form the youngest community
Adult women make up a majority of most groups
The 45–64 age group dominates nearly all communities
This demographic shift has major implications for Curaçao’s future workforce, pension system, healthcare needs and social services.
Youth Populations Not Growing Fast Enough
Even though Curaçao continues to receive migrants, the population under 25 is not increasing at a pace that offsets the rapid rise in older residents.
CBS warns that if the trend continues, Curaçao will face:
increased pressure on the healthcare sector
a shrinking labor force
higher costs associated with elderly care
challenges in economic productivity
Policymakers are expected to use the findings as part of long-term planning for the health system, pension sustainability and labor market strategy.