THE HAGUE – The Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK) will make significant investments in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom in 2026, according to the national budget presented on Tuesday. The funds, amounting to several hundred million euros, will be spread across multiple policy areas, including rule of law, governance, infrastructure, food security, and social projects.
For the three autonomous countries — Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten — a total of €68 million has been allocated to strengthen the rule of law. These investments focus on improving institutional quality, legislation, and implementation. The aim is to create a more stable legal order, better governance, and a more effective public administration.
In addition, nearly €28 million has been reserved for the continued implementation of the so-called Landspakketten. These reform packages target socioeconomic improvements and the modernization of governance and the economy across all six islands of the Kingdom. The Netherlands will finance this process and monitor progress.
Caribbean Netherlands
For the special municipalities of Bonaire, Saba, and St. Eustatius, The Hague has earmarked an additional €4 million to strengthen the executive capacity of island governments. The funds are intended to improve administrative quality and support local authorities in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Major infrastructure projects are also planned. The port of Saba will receive a €10 million investment to improve its facilities, while Bonaire will benefit from €16 million allocated for road improvements between 2025 and 2028.
Economy and Food Security
To enhance economic resilience, the government will extend the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (Borgstelling MKB-kredieten) to entrepreneurs in the Caribbean, making it easier for small and medium-sized businesses to access financing.
A revolving fund of €24 million, available through 2028, will support projects that strengthen food security. This initiative aims to create a more sustainable food supply across all islands in the Kingdom.
Social Initiatives and Slavery Legacy
In 2026, BZK will also reserve €23 million for social initiatives. Part of this budget will be used to implement action plans that stem from the Dutch government’s formal apologies for its role in slavery. Projects across the islands will receive support to promote healing, recognition, and awareness.
Reconstruction of Sint Maarten
The Netherlands will continue to support the reconstruction of Sint Maarten following the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017. Assistance will be provided through the World Bank-managed trust fund as well as through technical support, focusing on restoring infrastructure and strengthening the economy.
