WILLEMSTAD - Nearly half of all tenants at Curaçao’s Fundashon Kas Popular (FKP) are not paying their rent in full each month, according to data recently presented by the public housing foundation in a court case against a delinquent tenant.

FKP, which manages around 5,000 rental homes, currently faces an overwhelming waiting list of more than 8,000 applicants. Yet approximately 2,500 tenants reportedly fail to meet their monthly payment obligations, creating serious financial strain on the organization and the housing system.

Causes: Multiple Occupants and Delayed Subsidies

According to FKP, the issue has multiple causes. Many homes are occupied by several individuals, some of whom are financially capable of contributing but choose not to.

In addition, when tenants have insufficient income, rent subsidies are supposed to be provided by the government. However, FKP claims that the government is “a poor payer,” often delaying payments, which worsens rent arrears.

Years of Unpaid Rent and Mounting Pressure

Local courts have noted that rental arrears can build up for years without FKP taking steps to terminate leases or reclaim properties. This inaction, judges warn, puts enormous pressure on the public housing system — leaving compliant tenants and thousands of waiting families in a disadvantageous position.

The scale of the problem has now prompted new agreements within the judiciary regarding how to handle rent arrears. Courts have emphasized that FKP must take a more proactive approach in addressing long-term nonpayment.

Structural Reforms Needed

The revelations highlight deeper challenges in Curaçao’s affordable housing sector, including delayed subsidies, limited enforcement, and rising social demand.

With thousands still waiting for a home, authorities face mounting pressure to reform the system — ensuring both fair access to housing and accountability for those who benefit from it.