WILLEMSTAD – MFK Member of Parliament Ishahier Monte is seeking answers from Minister of Social Development, Labor and Welfare Charetti America-Francisca about the status of reforms to Curaçao’s social assistance system, arguing that studies completed three years ago already identified serious shortcomings and proposed concrete improvements.
Monte submitted parliamentary questions under Article 96 of Parliament’s Rules of Order concerning the future of “onderstand,” the financial assistance provided to people who cannot sufficiently support themselves.
The MP points to five reports completed in 2023 as part of the Curaçao Country Package. The studies examined different aspects of the social security system and included recommendations concerning social assistance.
According to Monte, the research concluded that existing assistance levels were insufficient to cover basic living expenses. The studies also found that benefits had not been indexed for many years, allowing inflation to erode the purchasing power of households dependent on government assistance.
Monte now wants America-Francisca to explain whether the five reports and their recommendations are being used in current SOAW policy.
He is also asking which recommendations have already been implemented, which are currently being introduced and where the overall reform process stands.
The MP argues that social assistance should do more than provide financial support. For people who are capable of working, he believes the system should include guidance and opportunities aimed at helping them return to the labor market and become financially independent.
At the same time, he says those who genuinely cannot support themselves should receive enough assistance to live with dignity.
Monte also draws attention to the age profile of people receiving assistance. According to the research he cites, approximately 47 percent of recipients were over the age of 55 at the time of the study. That could complicate efforts to move a significant share of beneficiaries into employment.
The MP connects the issue to Curaçao’s recent economic growth. He notes that economic and tourism indicators have improved, while surveys and reports continue to show that a considerable number of households struggle financially.
According to Monte, that raises the question of whether the current period of economic expansion should also be used to strengthen the social safety net for Curaçao’s most vulnerable residents.
He also refers to the 2025 annual report of the Temporary Work Organization (TWO), which coordinates Country Package programs and indicates that several reforms remain in progress.
Monte is asking the minister to clarify what concrete action has been taken since the studies were completed in 2023. He is also seeking information about government spending on studies, consultancy work and other activities related to the social security reform process.