WILLEMSTAD – The reform cooperation between Curaçao and the Netherlands under the Landspakketten could be extended for another two years, potentially continuing through 2029. However, the extension cannot take place without the approval of the Curaçao Parliament.
The Netherlands has included the proposed continuation in its 2027 Kingdom Relations budget.
The current Mutual Arrangement for Cooperation on Reforms expires in 2027. The arrangement provides the framework under which Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten work with the Netherlands on reforms originally agreed upon following the financial assistance provided during the COVID-19 crisis.
Those reforms cover public financial management, the cost and effectiveness of government, taxation, the labor market and social security, the economy, healthcare and education.
An independent evaluation committee concluded in 2026 that the cooperation had succeeded in getting reforms underway, but also determined that structural reforms require more time than provided under the current arrangement.
The Dutch government has therefore decided to use the remaining Landspakketten budget to make a two-year extension possible.
Crucially for Curaçao, the Dutch budget explicitly states that extending the arrangement requires the consent of the parliaments of Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten.
If Curaçao Parliament approves the extension, the remaining money can be used to support a number of priority reforms considered essential for the island’s further development.
The Netherlands is already adjusting its budget accordingly. Approximately €30.9 million that had been scheduled for 2027 is being shifted into later years: €21.3 million to 2028 and €9.6 million to 2029.
The Temporary Work Organization, known as TWO, would also continue longer. Its personnel budget is being rearranged to provide approximately €2.5 million for 2028 and €1.5 million for 2029.
The Dutch government stresses that Curaçao remains responsible for implementing the reforms. TWO provides capacity, technical assistance and financial support from the Netherlands.
The coming decision by Curaçao Parliament could therefore determine whether one of the most important post-pandemic cooperation frameworks between Willemstad and The Hague continues for another two years.