WILLEMSTAD - The Council of Advice calls for more attention to the inequality within the Kingdom regarding the protection of human rights. It has been observed that some important treaties in this area apply only to the European part of the Kingdom. This is the case, for example, with treaties on the rights of persons with disabilities and the prevention and combating of violence against women and domestic violence. According to the advisory body, the implementation and compliance with international standards in Curaçao require special attention across the board.  

On one hand, this remains a challenge due to the small scale and limited capacity for implementation. There is also a lack of expertise in crucial areas, and the country's financial-economic situation is precarious. On the other hand, not applying these standards can sometimes have far-reaching consequences, according to the Council of Advice in the 2023 annual report. 

Dilemma 

This dilemma becomes clearly visible in light of the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in the areas of (online) gambling, money laundering, and the financing of terrorism. The FATF does not have the authority to enforce its recommendations. However, failing to implement and comply with them could result in Curaçao being placed on a black or gray list of non-cooperating countries. This could have negative financial-economic consequences.  

Thus, there is significant pressure to introduce laws and regulations that align with the FATF recommendations.