WILLEMSTAD – A majority of participants in a Human Rights Defence (HRDC) survey say they feel comfortable living near undocumented migrants, while most also believe these migrants make a contribution to Curaçao’s economy.
The questionnaire, conducted as part of a broader Human Rights Defense Curaçao study, found that 80 percent of respondents agreed they feel comfortable with undocumented migrants in their neighborhood.
The average score given to the statement that undocumented migrants can make a valuable contribution to Curaçao was 6.8 out of 10.
At the same time, 69 percent of respondents agreed that undocumented migrants experience discrimination on Curaçao.
The survey showed that 65 percent believe undocumented migrants fill shortages in the labor market, while 27 percent believe they encourage Curaçao residents to perform better at work. Only 8 percent said undocumented migrants take jobs away from the local population.
Regarding integration, respondents gave an average score of 7.8 out of 10 when asked how important it is that undocumented migrants become integrated into society.
The results indicate that many residents do not view migration only as a security issue but also as an economic and social reality that requires better regulation.