WILLEMSTAD - Those who refuse to participate in the 2023 census conducted by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) risk a fine of 5000 guilders, says Sean de Boer, director of the CBS.
The 2023 census started on September 2, but some residents of the island are showing resistance to providing information to the census takers.
Residents of certain neighborhoods, including Jan Thiel and Brakkeput, are hesitant and unwilling to share information for the population survey. CBS emphasizes that cooperation is mandatory, and the fine applies to those who ignore this obligation.
CBS has the legal right to collect data for research purposes, based on the Statistics Ordinance from 1971. This law encompasses the collection of both personal and business information from almost all residents. Sean de Boer emphasizes the importance of participating in the 2023 census.
The director explains that legal procedures to bring residents who refuse to cooperate to court are currently being finalized. He underscores that the legislation in this area has recently been revised, and the fine has been increased from 500 to 5000 guilders to reinforce the law.