WILLEMSTAD – Public confidence in Curaçao’s Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM) is critically low, according to a new image survey commissioned by the OM itself and included in its 2024 Annual Report. The findings reveal that more than half of the population lacks trust in the institution, questioning its credibility and integrity. 

The study, conducted at the end of 2023, surveyed 428 residents of Curaçao. Of those, nearly 55% said they do not trust the OM, while just under 38% expressed some level of confidence. When asked whether they view the OM as an honest and ethical institution, almost half of the respondents answered no. 

Weak Scores on Core Values 

The OM also evaluated public perception of its core values, which include transparency, fairness, impartiality, respect, and reliability. The lowest rating was given for transparency (4.7 out of 10), while the highest score was for reliability (5.7). The overall average score across all values stood at 5.3. 

Perceptions of Favoritism and Political Influence 

According to the report, the main reasons for the negative image are perceptions of selective justice, poor public communication, misaligned priorities, nepotism, and political interference. Respondents called on the OM to be more transparent, proactive in prosecution, and consistent in applying the principle of equality before the law. 

Disconnect Between Prosecutors and Public 

The OM acknowledged the criticism and noted that many of its prosecutors are temporarily posted from the Netherlands and may be unfamiliar with the local context. “Due to language barriers and limited media consumption within the local environment, some prosecutors may not be fully aware of how the OM is perceived by the community,” the report stated. 

Steps Toward Better Communication 

In response to the findings, the OM has pledged to invest in improved communication with the public. Notably, the 2024 Annual Report was published in Papiamentu for the first time, and the OM is preparing to launch a new television program, “Esaki ta Hustisia!”, aimed at explaining the OM’s role and responsibilities within Curaçao’s justice system. 

The image survey was conducted by a graduate student from the University of Dutch Caribbean and will serve as the foundation for a more targeted and inclusive communication strategy moving forward.