Dutch Government Continues Efforts to Improve Livelihood Security in Statia
The Dutch government is committed to improving the livelihood of residents in Statia. State Secretaries Jurgen Nobel (Social Affairs and Employment) and Zsolt Szabó (Interior and Kingdom Relations) outlined these plans following a report from the ‘Social Minimum Commission for the Caribbean Netherlands.
Nobel highlighted that rising prices have made life more difficult for many people on Statia. To help, the government is working to improve purchasing power and reduce costs. The goal is also to make social security systems on Statia more similar to those in the European Netherlands. This includes introducing benefits like parental leave, care leave, and unemployment support.
Szabó added that improving living conditions also means ensuring access to support, education, and healthcare. The government is investing in projects on the island, such as food security initiatives and road improvements, to boost Statia’s economic development.
After raising the minimum wage and social benefits earlier this year, the government is also working on long-term solutions like sustainable energy, public transport, and affordable housing. Improving social security and introducing income-based benefits are key parts of this strategy.
Tackling Poverty and Debt The Dutch government has allocated €9.5 million to improve purchasing power on Statia, with specific measures coming in the spring. Local poverty reduction programmes are being supported with funding and resources. Additionally, €2 million is being invested in island services to tackle poverty and debt. The government will continue funding free school meals in both the Caribbean and European Netherlands.
Summary of Main Efforts:
Summary of Main Efforts:
- Raising wages and benefits
- Reducing the cost of living through sustainable energy and housing
- Investing in local economic projects and infrastructure
- Expanding social security benefits like parental leave
- Supporting poverty reduction programmes and continuing free school meals in Statia