WILLEMSTAD – Opposition party MAN-PIN has formally requested a public parliamentary meeting to discuss government policy regarding public access to Curaçao’s beaches.
In a petition submitted to the President of Parliament, the party stated that beaches are part of Curaçao’s natural and cultural heritage and must remain accessible to all residents of the island.
According to MAN-PIN, there is growing concern about what the party describes as the increasing commercialization and privatization of beaches, with local residents feeling that free public access is becoming more limited.
MPs for MAN-PIN Suzanne Camelia-Romer and Giselle Mc. William
The party argued that many local families are encountering obstacles when trying to enjoy beaches in the traditional way due to high costs, excessive use of beach chairs and commercial facilities, and situations where sections of beaches appear to be primarily reserved for tourists.
MAN-PIN stated that beaches should not become a luxury only accessible to those who can afford to pay, but should remain public spaces for recreation, sports, health and family activities.
The faction is also calling for greater transparency regarding agreements and management contracts between the government and private companies involving Curaçao’s beaches.
According to the party, the public has the right to know under what conditions these agreements are made and how free public access is being guaranteed.
MAN-PIN requested that both the Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning (VVRP) and the ministry responsible for Environment and Nature participate in the proposed public meeting to explain the government’s policy vision and management approach.
“For MAN-PIN, our beaches belong to our people,” the party stated. “We must protect accessibility, inclusiveness and the right of every person to enjoy the sea without financial barriers or excessive privatization.”