WILLEMSTAD – The court will deliver its ruling on May 4, 2026, in a case between teachers’ union DOEN and the Curaçao government over a disputed salary increment for education personnel.
The case centers on whether teachers are entitled to a salary step increase that, according to the union, should have been granted in August 2024. DOEN has been pursuing the matter since December last year and has taken the issue to court through a formal legal procedure.
During the hearing, the government argued that there is no legal basis for granting the increment. However, DOEN maintains that the salary step is justified and has asked the court to formally recognize that right.
According to the union, it presented detailed arguments in court explaining why it considers the government’s position unjustified. DOEN claims the government is relying on agreements made within the Central Consultation Body for Civil Servants instead of applying existing legislation.
The case has drawn attention within the education sector, as the outcome could have implications for salary structures and labor relations across public services.
Several union members and labor representatives were present at the hearing to show support. DOEN noted that it appreciated the court’s decision to invite attendees to share their perspectives at the end of the session.
The ruling is expected to clarify whether the government must grant the salary increase, a decision that could set a precedent for similar disputes in the future.