WILLEMSTAD – Authorities in Curaçao identified thirteen victims of human trafficking in 2025, according to new figures released by Path Curaçao (Prevenshon di Abusu i Trafikashon di Hende), the government body responsible for combating human trafficking and abuse.
The data, published by the Ministry of Justice, shows that four human trafficking cases were investigated during the year. Two of those cases involved both labor and sexual exploitation, while the other two were related to labor exploitation.
All identified victims were women. According to the figures, eleven were from Colombia, one from Venezuela and one from Brazil.
In addition to human trafficking investigations, authorities also examined seven cases related to migrant smuggling and illegal migration. Four of those involved illegal entry by boat, one concerned entry through the airport, and two others involved illegal employment without proper documentation and facilitating illegal residence.
The report indicates that 39 migrants arrived in Curaçao by boat in cases linked to migrant smuggling. In total, 41 victims were associated with smuggling investigations.
The figures come as Curaçao continues to face international scrutiny over its efforts to combat human trafficking. In the annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report issued by the United States government, the island was upgraded last year from the Tier 2 Watchlist to Tier 2. The ranking indicates that Curaçao has made progress in addressing trafficking but still does not fully meet international minimum standards.
The improvement followed several developments, including the first conviction of a human trafficker since 2020, the identification of victims and the allocation of additional resources for victim protection and prevention programs. Authorities also opened a temporary shelter for victims and launched awareness campaigns.
However, the U.S. report also notes that challenges remain. Victims often receive assistance only if they cooperate with criminal investigations, residence permits can be delayed, and coordination between government agencies still needs improvement.
Researchers have also pointed out that confusion between human trafficking and migrant smuggling sometimes occurs in investigations, which can lead to improper prosecutions and reduced protection for victims.
Human trafficking and migrant smuggling remain persistent problems across the Caribbean. Due to the strategic location of the ABC islands between South America and international markets, criminal networks frequently use the region as a transit route for migrants and victims of exploitation.
Path Curaçao stressed that behind the statistics are real human stories and said the organization will continue working with partners to increase awareness, strengthen victim protection and intensify efforts to combat traffickers.