WILLEMSTAD - "The form and content of the Exception or Emergency Act in one large omnibus scheme, or “one size fits all”, should actually be replaced by tailor-made arrangements, so for various types of crisis situations matching schemes. Natural disasters, pandemics, do not need equal treatment. Human Rights Defense Curaçao (HRDC) said in a statement.

HRDC says it understands that such a National Ordinance is required for certain crisis and emergency situations, but as a human rights NGO, the organization is extra alert when there are developments that could affect or violate the vital human rights of residents.

HRDC shares concerns about the potential dangers of the current text to basic human rights, such as freedom of expression, freedom of demonstration and the right to privacy in one's home.

HRDC also believes that the current guarantees are insufficient. "In line with authoritative constitutional law expertise, workable adjustments must be made for accelerated access to justice. And in parliament, decisions should not be made by simple, but by qualified majority on the declaration of a state of emergency," said HRDC.

HRDC also wonders whether the ultimate guarantee of the Kingdom government for safeguarding human rights is not a sham.

"Unfortunately, it has been our painful experience so far that the government in The Hague keeps its hands off human rights issues as much as possible and preferably classifies it as the 'autonomous competence' of the countries," says the human rights organization.

HRDC urges the government of Curaçao to address legitimate concerns with even greater willingness and diligence and believes that human rights must be safeguarded.