THE HAGUE - The Dutch Parliament has introduced a motion urging the government of Curaçao to tighten regulations and oversight on its gambling sector. Members of Parliament (MPs) Van Nispen (SP), Michon-Derksen (VVD), and Van der Werf (D66) presented the motion during a two-minute debate on security in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, citing risks to public integrity posed by links between the gambling sector and criminal organizations. 

The motion states: “Considering that the gambling sector is prominent in Curaçao and that there are links between criminal organizations and legitimate businesses, posing risks to the integrity of public administration; observing that gambling regulations are currently under review; acknowledging that while gambling legislation is a national responsibility, serious criminal activity also affects the integrity of the government and therefore the Kingdom’s interests, [the motion] requests the government to consult with Curaçao to ensure that rules and oversight of the gambling sector are strengthened, with the goal of combating money laundering, preventing further ties between organized crime and legitimate businesses, and promoting public integrity.” 

A vote on the motion is scheduled for Tuesday. Given the broad political support, it is expected to pass easily. Minister of Justice and Security Van Weel expressed no opposition to the motion, noting that implementation will fall under the responsibility of State Secretary Szabó for Kingdom Relations.