WILLEMSTAD – The SGP faction in the Dutch Senate is urging the Schoof government to structurally consider the security of the Caribbean islands in future defense plans. According to the party, the Kingdom must not only fulfill its NATO obligations but also take responsibility for the safety of Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
In written questions following a legislative proposal on structural defense expenditures, the party highlighted the strategic location of the islands and the growing threats of transnational crime and drug smuggling. The SGP is advocating for significant investments in the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Coast Guard in the Caribbean region.
The party also emphasizes the importance of cooperation with local authorities and international partners to strengthen regional security. According to the SGP, more structural attention is needed to address the specific security needs of the islands.
Currently, the availability of equipment and personnel is insufficient, the party claims. The SGP questions whether the current defense budget effectively contributes to the protection of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom and is calling for concrete measures to enhance the region’s military and security capabilities.