Curaçao finds itself at a critical demographic crossroads. With nearly one in four residents now aged 65 or older, the island ranks third in the world in terms of elderly population by percentage—a sobering milestone that brings both challenges and opportunities. The time for passive observation is over; proactive policies are needed now to secure the island’s social and economic future. 

As of 2023, 24.7% of Curaçao’s population is over 65, with a median age of 45.9. In contrast, children under 14 make up just 14.1%. These trends are driven by two key factors: a sharp decline in birth rates and decades of emigration, especially among the young and educated. The result? A shrinking labor force, growing health care and pension costs, and an aging population increasingly at risk of social isolation. 

The Caribbean region mirrors this trajectory, but Curaçao leads the pack—ranking number one in the Caribbean and third globally in percentage of people over 65. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent an urgent social reality that demands strategic planning. 

Puerto Rico, a territory that shares much of Curaçao’s history and social structure, offers a cautionary tale. In 2010, Puerto Rico passed a “Demographic Challenge Act” aiming to reverse the effects of aging by boosting birth rates, attracting migrants, and improving elder care. Despite good intentions, the policy fell short. Economic collapse, natural disasters, and a lack of legislative and financial support rendered the act ineffective. The result: widespread elder poverty, a crumbling social care system, and a younger generation that continues to leave. 

Curaçao still has time to chart a different course. 

Here are five urgent recommendations: 

Retain and attract young talent – Offer incentives for Curaçaoans living abroad, particularly in the Netherlands, to return. 

Invest in elderly care infrastructure – Develop modern senior centers and promote home care programs. 

Support family caregivers – Introduce tax breaks or compensation for those caring for aging relatives. 

Manage immigration strategically – Implement selective migration policies to attract working-age individuals. 

Continuously monitor demographic trends – Use census and registry data to guide adaptive, evidence-based policy. 

Let’s be clear: an aging population is not inherently a crisis. Older citizens contribute wisdom, experience, and stability. But without action, the imbalance between working-age residents and the elderly could strain Curaçao’s economy and public services to the breaking point. 

Curaçao has the chance to turn a looming demographic challenge into an opportunity for social innovation. The question is no longer if we should act—it’s how fast we can. 

If Puerto Rico’s experience teaches us anything, it’s that delay leads only to decline. Curaçao must act today to protect its tomorrow.