Interactive Session Recap: Exploring the Implications of the Rijkswet for Aruba

June 2, 2025 | Parliament of Aruba

On the evening of June 2nd, key stakeholders from Aruba’s political, business, and civil sectors gathered at the Parliament of Aruba for a crucial interactive session focused on the Rijkswet, a Dutch Kingdom law impacting Aruba’s financial governance. The event brought together parliamentarians like Otmar Oduber and Eduard Pieters, representatives from major associations including Martijn Balkestein (KVK), Herric Henriquez (ATIA), Miriam Dabian (AFBA), Frans Ponson (CUA), Juni de Freitas (SNBA), and experts such as Jo Anne Ras to discuss the ongoing effects, concerns, and future steps related to the Rijkswet and its broader economic and political implications.

Understanding the Rijkswet and Its Background

The Rijkswet, introduced between 2013 and 2014 under the Common Financial Supervision Act (CAFT), grants the Netherlands significant authority over Aruba’s financial management. While the law was designed to enhance fiscal responsibility, its implementation has faced criticism. Notably, despite CAFT oversight, Aruba’s economy has struggled to recover, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A critical concern is that CAFT allows the Netherlands to bypass Aruba’s Parliament, with financial data sent directly to Dutch authorities. The Landspakket, intended as support, is increasingly perceived by many in Aruba as a punitive measure rather than an aid.

Current Concerns Highlighted

During the session, participants voiced significant worries including:

• The recent jump in interest rates from 5.45% to 6.9%, linked to missed deadlines for signing financial agreements.

• Fears that the Netherlands may push for reintegration of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten into a provincial framework akin to Bonaire, Saba, and St. Eustatius—challenging Aruba’s autonomy.

• Recognition of Aruba’s strategic location in the Caribbean, underscoring why the island remains valuable within the Kingdom’s geopolitical interests.

  
  

Governance and Transparency Challenges

Transparency remains a key issue. Parliamentarians reported difficulties accessing official documents, requiring formal requests to ministries. Alarmingly, the 2025 Budget was approved without a review of Aruba’s annual financial statement. Discussions also noted that Aruba is nearing the imposition of a Koninklijk Besluit (Royal Decree), which could further impact local governance.

Moreover, participants pointed out double standards in the Dutch government’s financial assistance policies, noting that countries like Greece and several African nations received interest-free aid, unlike Aruba.

Recent Developments and Next Steps

An important update shared was the official withdrawal of the Rijkswet on April 23, 2025. However, a revised version is anticipated by late 2025, potentially in September or October, keeping this issue very much alive.

Proposal: Establishing an Independent Budget Chamber

A key proposal emerged from the discussions: the creation of a Budget Chamber, possibly staffed with Dutch and local experts, to independently supervise and advise on Aruba’s budget and financial reporting processes. This initiative aims to strengthen fiscal oversight while preserving Aruba’s autonomy.

Call to Action for Associations

Parliamentarian Otmar Oduber urged all represented associations to take a clear stance on the Rijkswet, advocate for enhanced public transparency, and support measures that safeguard Aruba’s autonomy and economic stability.

Session Outcome: A Unified Demand for Transparency

Frans Ponson of CUA voiced deep concern that Parliament has not yet been presented with the Rijkswet text, limiting their ability to inform citizens or stakeholders effectively. The session ended with a strong consensus on the need for increased transparency, better access to financial documents, and greater public engagement in decisions that affect Aruba’s future.