WILLEMSTAD – Poverty levels in Curaçao remain high despite economic recovery and declining unemployment, prompting the government to develop a new policy framework expected to be presented later this year.
This was confirmed by Minister of Social Development, Labor and Welfare Charetti America-Francisca during a parliamentary question session. According to the minister, recent data shows that economic growth does not automatically translate into reduced poverty.
Minister Charetti America-Francisca during the debate in parliament
She noted that an increasing number of people are facing multiple vulnerabilities at the same time, including low income, limited access to education, and challenges in accessing healthcare.
The minister emphasized that poverty is a complex issue that extends beyond financial hardship. In addition to absolute poverty—where individuals lack basic means for survival—she highlighted forms such as relative, social, and temporary poverty. This includes situations where individuals are employed but still unable to make ends meet, or those who fall into financial difficulty due to illness or job loss.
Education and employment remain the key pillars in addressing poverty, according to the ministry. However, several structural barriers continue to limit upward mobility, including lack of skills, limited job opportunities, debt, health issues, and insufficient access to childcare and transportation.
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW) is working on a broader, more integrated approach. This includes increased cooperation with other ministries, such as Economic Development and Transport and Spatial Planning, as well as partnerships with social organizations.
Until the new policy is finalized, SOAW will continue to provide support through existing programs, including social assistance, subsidies, and initiatives aimed at guiding individuals back into the labor market.