WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao Ministry of Justice has received the annual report of the Commission for the Supervision of Detainee Care (CTA), highlighting findings and areas requiring attention in the treatment and care of individuals deprived of their liberty.
The report was formally presented to Acting Secretary-General of the Ministry of Justice, Gimena van der Gen, by CTA Chairperson Maritza Becher and commission representative Reagan Celestijn.
Commission representative Reagan Celestijn, CTA Chairperson Maritza Becher and Acting Secretary-General of the Ministry of Justice, Gimena van der Gen
During the meeting, representatives of the ministry and the commission discussed the report's findings, identified areas of concern, and exchanged views on the current situation regarding detainee care in Curaçao.
The discussions focused on opportunities to improve the quality of care, professional practices, and administrative procedures within the detention system.
According to the Ministry of Justice, the meeting provided an opportunity for both parties to share experiences and expertise while identifying possible improvements that could be implemented in the future.
Particular attention was given to the importance of ensuring that individuals in detention receive appropriate care and are treated with dignity and professionalism.
The ministry emphasized that these principles must remain central to the treatment of people who have been deprived of their liberty.
The CTA plays an independent supervisory role in monitoring detainee care. Through its oversight activities and recommendations, the commission contributes to identifying issues that may require attention from the authorities responsible for detention facilities and related services.
The Ministry of Justice stated that it places considerable value on this independent oversight function.
It considers the commission's observations and recommendations an important contribution to the continued development and improvement of detainee care in Curaçao.
The annual report also provides a basis for discussions about how existing working methods and procedures can be strengthened to better meet the needs of detainees and the responsibilities of detention authorities.
Although the ministry acknowledged the report's findings and areas of concern, the announcement did not disclose specific deficiencies identified by the commission or provide details about individual recommendations.
It also did not indicate whether a formal implementation schedule has been established for any proposed improvements.
The ministry expressed its appreciation for the dedication and commitment demonstrated by the commission in carrying out its supervisory responsibilities.
It further emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue and effective cooperation among organizations operating within Curaçao's justice system.
According to the ministry, continued engagement with the CTA is essential to identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring that detainee care remains guided by dignity, professionalism, and appropriate standards of treatment.
The presentation of the annual report forms part of the ongoing cooperation between the independent supervisory commission and the Ministry of Justice, with both parties recognizing the importance of strengthening the quality of care provided to individuals in detention.