WILLEMSTAD - The Minister of Social Development, Labor, and Welfare, Ruthmilde Larmonie-Cecilia, highlighted the prevailing poverty on the island during a parliamentary presentation on Tuesday. Discussing welfare recipients, the minister drew attention to the serious social issues that Curaçao faces, as more than 42% of the population earns the minimum wage or less.
Addressing the audience, Minister Larmonie-Cecilia shared concerning statistics. Approximately 30% of working individuals earn between one thousand and two thousand guilders, while 18% receive between two and three thousand guilders. These figures reflect the significant challenge faced by many working families in meeting their basic needs. If left unaddressed, these financial difficulties can further exacerbate social problems across the island.
The minister emphasized the urgent need to find solutions to this issue. She stressed that the inability of employed individuals to support their families adequately poses a grave problem. The potential repercussions of unresolved financial strain on households could lead to a rise in social challenges.
“The revelation of these distressing statistics underscores the pressing need for comprehensive measures to address poverty and income disparity in Curaçao. The government and relevant stakeholders must collaborate to implement effective strategies that uplift the economy, improve employment opportunities, and enhance the overall well-being of the population,” said the minister.