WILLEMSTAD – MFK Member of Parliament Ishahier Monte says the latest labor market and poverty figures indicate that Curaçao's economy is continuing to strengthen, pointing to higher employment, lower unemployment and stable inflation as signs that the government's economic policies are producing results.
In a statement released Thursday, Monte said the latest statistics demonstrate that, despite the challenges the country continues to face, more people are finding employment and benefiting from improved economic opportunities.
According to the figures cited by the parliamentarian, the number of employed persons increased from 66,722 in 2022 to 71,919 in 2024. During the same period, the overall unemployment rate fell from 13.1 percent to 7.8 percent.
Youth unemployment also showed a significant improvement, declining from 29.8 percent in 2022 to 16.3 percent in 2024.
Monte said the figures represent more than just statistical improvements.
"Behind every new job is a person who can support a family, a young person with greater prospects for the future, and a stronger community," he said.
According to the MFK parliamentarian, economic growth, job creation and improving the well-being of the population remain central priorities for the governing party.
"The figures show that these efforts are producing results. There is still much work to be done, but we are moving in the right direction," Monte stated.
He also pointed to the latest poverty threshold figures, arguing that they reflect a relatively controlled inflation environment. According to the data cited, the poverty line for different household types increased by approximately 2 percent between 2025 and 2026, broadly in line with the country's recorded inflation rate.
Monte said this demonstrates that Curaçao has managed to maintain a degree of economic stability despite ongoing international price pressures.
At the same time, he acknowledged that many families continue to face financial hardship and emphasized that the fight against poverty is far from over.
According to Monte, the government must continue investing in education, vocational training, job creation, neighborhood development and measures to strengthen the purchasing power of residents.
"A strong economy is not an end in itself," Monte said. "The ultimate goal is for every citizen to experience that progress in their daily lives. We believe the foundation for achieving that goal is being strengthened step by step."
The MFK parliamentary faction reaffirmed its commitment to policies aimed at creating greater economic opportunities, increased prosperity and a better future for all residents of Curaçao.