WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s Ombudsman, Keursly Concincion, has once again called on Prime Minister Gilmar ‘Pik’ Pisas (MFK) and Parliament to draft legislation that safeguards the rights and protections of the elderly. In a formal letter, Concincion pointed to the Inter-American Convention on Protecting the Human Rights of Older Persons, adopted by the Organization of American States (OAS) in 2015, as a framework that could guide local laws.

“The convention emphasizes dignity, independence, equal treatment, participation, and social inclusion of older persons. It also calls for clear regulations on healthcare, economic security, and protection against discrimination,” the Ombudsman wrote.

Concincion has repeatedly expressed concern about the fragmented nature of Curaçao’s current provisions for the elderly. At present, rights and protections are scattered across various pieces of legislation, creating gaps in both coverage and enforcement.

Despite earlier appeals made in 2024, Concincion says he has yet to receive a response from either the government or Parliament. He is now urging Curaçao to follow the example of other OAS member states by embedding elderly rights into national law, ensuring their long-term welfare and full participation in society.

“The time has come for Curaçao to move beyond piecemeal measures and guarantee comprehensive legal protections for older citizens,” the Ombudsman stressed.