The Equal Treatment Act now also applies to the Caribbean in the Netherlands

The Hague – On the proposal of the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Hugo de Jonge, the Council of Ministers decided to extend the scope of the legislation on equal treatment, which has so far only applied in the European Netherlands, to include the Caribbean parts of the country. As a result, residents of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba can now rely on these laws if they experience discrimination.

Minister De Jonge stressed the importance of this step: “It is time for us to take this important step, because equal treatment is a fundamental right. Article 1 applies to the entire Netherlands, including parts of the Caribbean Sea. This ensures the protection of everyone on Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba.” Of discrimination.

State Minister Alexandra van Heuvelen added that the islands' executive councils had strongly requested that this legislation be brought forward as quickly as possible last year. The Thodé Commission investigated extensively how these laws were effectively implemented in the Dutch Caribbean.

With the new regulations, Dutch Caribbean residents who feel discriminated against on grounds such as gender, age, origin, religion, disability or sexual orientation can have recourse to anti-discrimination provisions. They can also contact the newly established BES anti-discrimination facility for free help and advice. Each island will have an office where one can go for legal support.

In addition, those concerned can submit their case to the Human Rights Institute for decision-making.

After a period of online consultation, where citizens, businesses and social organizations could give their opinions, the updated proposal was sent to the State Council for advice, which gave positive advice. The government will now send the bill to the House of Representatives, with the plan for the bill to come into force in 2025.

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