The Hague wants to modernize the social security system of the Caribbean Netherlands

THE HAGUE – The Dutch government wants to modernize the social security system in the Caribbean Netherlands. She sent a bill to this effect to the House of Representatives yesterday.

The proposed ‘Amendment Act SZW Laws BES 2024’ contains several important adjustments. For example, the leave arrangements are being expanded to include emergency leave, short-term care leave and partner leave at birth, which helps employees to better combine work and care. The legally required number of vacation days are also converted into hours, which allows for more flexible use of leave.

In addition, the bill introduces a benefit for pregnant self-employed people during their maternity leave, comparable to the schemes in the European Netherlands. The double child benefit is structurally determined for parents of children with additional care needs.

The bill also pays attention to the expansion of rules regarding disability with a focus on reintegration. This includes three waiting days for health and accident insurance, and an activation obligation for employees during illness.

Another significant change is the phasing out of the ‘expensive allowance’ for AOV beneficiaries on Saba and Sint Eustatius, given the substantial increases in the AOV amounts that will take effect from 1 July 2024.

Reactions to the plans have been mixed so far. Residents and public bodies, as well as Central Dialogues, have already provided their feedback, which shows how important this matter is for the community.

The further procedure sees the bill first sent to the House of Representatives for approval and then to the Senate. If approved, the legislation will be introduced in phases from January 2025, with further measures such as an unemployment provision for the Caribbean Netherlands still to be taken shape.

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