WILLEMSTAD, ORANJESTAD – Curaçao and Aruba are among the top-performing countries in the latest Resilience Index Caribbean (RICa) 2026, according to a report by Economisch Bureau Amsterdam comparing 18 Caribbean nations on economic resilience.
The index evaluates how well countries can withstand external shocks such as economic crises, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainty. It takes into account not only economic growth, but also factors such as public finances, institutional strength, demographics, and sustainability.
Jamaica ranks highest in the region, followed by Barbados. At the lower end of the ranking are countries including Haiti, Saint Lucia, and Sint Maarten, with Sint Maarten placing sixteenth overall.
Curaçao and Aruba secured fifth and sixth place respectively, reflecting relatively strong performance within the region. According to the report, both countries score well on institutional quality and fiscal management.
However, the analysis also points to vulnerabilities. Curaçao and Aruba face challenges related to demographic trends and sustainability, including relatively low labor force participation and higher carbon emissions.
The report emphasizes that the results should be interpreted within a regional context. Researchers note that small Caribbean economies remain particularly exposed to external shocks, including natural disasters and global economic fluctuations, despite relative strengths in governance and financial structures.
The findings highlight both the progress made by Curaçao and Aruba in strengthening economic resilience, and the ongoing need to address structural vulnerabilities in order to sustain long-term stability.