THE HAGUE – The Dutch National ombudsman Reinier van Zutphen sees improvements in the situation of Caribbean students who come to the Netherlands to study. After years of drawing attention to the problems these students face, his final report was released today.
In 2020, Van Zutphen conducted research on the issues faced by students from the Caribbean part of the Kingdom when they come to the Netherlands to study. He found that the provision of information and guidance for these students was poor. Additionally, they were not issued a Citizen Service Number (Burgerservicenummer or BSN) before their departure to the Netherlands. Without a BSN, they could, for example, not open a bank account. Moreover, despite holding Dutch passports, they were unable to avail themselves of a Dutch basic health insurance, which made them ineligible for healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag). Despite thinking they were eligible, some students still applied for the allowance and later faced financial problems as they had to repay it.
Finally, the ombudsman observed that there were issues with repaying student loans after returning to the islands. This caused significant financial challenges and problems for Caribbean students. In the report titled "Worries of Caribbean Students," the ombudsman made several recommendations. To prevent the report from being shelved, he has been actively monitoring and pursuing the necessary improvements.
Van Zutphen stated, "Students from the Caribbean part of the Kingdom face various problems that students born in the Netherlands do not encounter. This is unfair and concerning. Therefore, together with my colleagues, I have worked tirelessly in recent years to ensure that the issues faced by Caribbean students are resolved as quickly as possible." The ombudsman called on ministers to take action, published progress reports, reached out to other relevant stakeholders, and organized roundtable meetings.
Improvements have been made, but there are still areas that require attention. Van Zutphen said, "There is better information and guidance for Caribbean students. Additionally, efforts are being made to explore how Caribbean students can obtain a BSN directly when applying for student finance through DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs - Education Executive Agency). I consider these steps to be truly positive and commendable. However, it is disappointing to note that this cannot be arranged for students in the upcoming academic year 2023-2024. Furthermore, I see that students need assistance in finding accommodation and timely registration in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen or BRP) of municipalities. They also require more help navigating the complex laws and regulations in the Netherlands. Additionally, there are still issues with repaying student loans upon returning to the islands. Therefore, we cannot afford to slacken our efforts and must continue to push forward."
The ombudsman is now passing on the baton. Over the past years, a strong foundation has been established, and the relevant parties know how to collaborate, with a clear mission. Therefore, the ombudsman calls on the "Regiegroep studiesucces Caribische studenten" (Steering Group for Academic Success of Caribbean Students) to work closely with the Aruban House, Curaçao House, and Sint Maarten House, whenever possible, to address the remaining issues faced by Caribbean students as quickly as possible. They should continuously bring these matters to the attention of government authorities. Van Zutphen will continue to monitor developments and remains available to address complaints from Caribbean students.