Aruba and Sint Maarten inaugurate new parliamentary years

The new parliamentary years have officially commenced in Aruba and Sint Maarten. In Aruba, the 2026–2027 session opened with the introduction of the ‘Cuida Aruba’ program, an initiative aimed at fostering civic participation and shared responsibility for the island's maintenance and environmental conservation, including a national reforestation plan to plant 100,000 trees.

However, political tension remains in Aruba. The MEP opposition has criticized the previous parliamentary term, alleging a lack of transparency and oversight. They claim that 62% of requested public meetings were not held and 75% of parliamentary inquiries went unanswered, characterizing this as a deliberate political choice to avoid government accountability.

In Sint Maarten, the 2026–2027 parliamentary year was inaugurated with a solemn public session and a military parade in Philipsburg. The session featured a speech by Governor Ajamu Baly and established the theme ‘Building digital trust: Responsible AI for a stronger democracy and empowered communities.’

Additionally, in Aruba, representatives from the fishing sector, including Arthur Giel of Stichting Hadicurari, have expressed concerns regarding maritime protection regulations. They argue that new restrictions on fishing zones are being implemented without sufficient scientific data or consultation with local fishing communities, potentially threatening local livelihoods.