ORANJESTAD, ARUBA:--- At the 3rd International Ombudsman Conference in Rome, held from May 26^th to 29th, 2026, Ombudsman institutions, human rights experts, and representatives of public entities from around the world gathered to address how societies are responding to rapid social, technological, and democratic change.

The conference focused on the impact of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) on citizens’ daily lives, the protection of fundamental rights, and the safeguarding of accessible, transparent, and people-centered public services.

“The world is changing rapidly, but fundamental rights, human dignity, and accessibility must never come under pressure. That is why international cooperation is more important than ever,” states the Ombudsman of Aruba, Ms. Jurima Bryson, LL.M.

For Aruba, participation in the conference marked a significant international step. The conference provided an opportunity to actively position Aruba within the global Ombudsman network and to build enduring relationships with institutions from Europe, Africa, Asia, and North, Central, and South America.

In addition, relations within the Caribbean & Latin America Region were further strengthened, with a focus on intensifying cooperation, knowledge exchange, and institutional development.

Particular attention was also given to the role of youth in democratic processes, social participation, and the protection of rights.

A key outcome of the conference was the adoption of the Rome Declaration 2026, in which Ombudsman institutions worldwide reaffirmed their commitment to fundamental rights, institutional independence, and people-centered public services in an increasingly digital society. The Ombudsman of Aruba also signed this declaration.

Participation in the International Ombudsman Conference reinforces Aruba’s growing commitment to international cooperation, good governance, and institutional strengthening.

Stay informed about the latest developments

The Bureau of Ombudsman Aruba keeps the community informed through the following communication channels:

• Website: www.ombudsman.aw
• Facebook: Ombudsman Aruba
• Instagram: ombudsmanaruba
• LinkedIn: Ombudsman Aruba

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) continues its efforts to combat gun and drug-related crimes across the island. As part of these ongoing operations, officers carried out a successful intervention during the early morning hours of Sunday, June 14, 2026.
At approximately 2:10 a.m., police officers encountered a small white vehicle driving in a suspicious manner. Upon seeing the police patrol, the driver sped up, prompting officers to pursue the vehicle for a traffic stop.
The vehicle was subsequently stopped and found to be occupied by four individuals: three males and one female. Officers conducted a control of the vehicle based on firearm and narcotics laws. During the control and search of the occupants, officers discovered that two of the suspects were carrying firearms. Two Glock 26 pistols were confiscated, along with a quantity of narcotics. All four suspects in the vehicle were arrested. The suspects arrested in connection with this incident are:
• S.F.R., approximately 30 years old
• R.R.F., approximately 20 years old
• C.J.A., approximately 21 years old
• F.K.D. (female), approximately 17 years old
All four suspects reside on the French side of the island.
The suspects were later transported to the Philipsburg Police Station, where they remain in custody pending further investigation. The confiscated firearms and narcotics have been seized as evidence.

KPSM emphasizes that these types of operations will continue as part of its commitment to reducing gun violence and drug-related criminal activity. The possession and circulation of illegal firearms remain a major concern, particularly in light of the recent gun-related incidents that have occurred on both sides of the island and on neighboring islands throughout the region.
The Police Force of Sint Maarten remains dedicated to safeguarding the community and will continue to proactively target individuals involved in the illegal possession of firearms, narcotics trafficking, and other criminal activities.
KPSM encourages members of the public to continue sharing information that may assist law enforcement in preventing and solving crimes. Anyone with information can contact the police at 911 or the anonymous tip line at 9300.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA), in collaboration with the National Employment Service Center (NESC), will host an upcoming Marine Industry Immersion Day on June 17th, 2026, bringing together government representatives, educational stakeholders, and private sector leaders to create greater awareness and understanding of the marine industry, its economic importance, and the employment opportunities and challenges connected to its future growth.
As one of Sint Maarten’s most important economic sectors, the marine industry contributes significantly to technical services, hospitality, transportation, yachting, tourism and regional commerce. The industry supports a wide range of direct and indirect employment opportunities and plays a major role in positioning Sint Maarten as a leading maritime hub within the Caribbean.
However, continued growth and sustainability of the sector rely heavily on several interconnected factors, including workforce development, infrastructure improvements, permitting processes, policy alignment, education, safety and destination promotion. Challenges in these areas can directly affect the ability of the industry to expand, maintain service quality, attract investment, and create long-term employment opportunities for the people of Sint Maarten.
The Marine Industry Immersion Day aims to provide government officials and labor-related stakeholders with firsthand insight into the scale, diversity, and operational realities of the sector, while encouraging open dialogue on how stronger collaboration can support both industry growth and workforce development.
Through site visits at marine businesses, a tour of the Simpson Bay Lagoon, presentations, panel discussions, and interactive dialogue with marine professionals and businesses, participants will gain a broader understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. Discussions will focus not only on employment needs and training opportunities, but also on how operational and regulatory obstacles can impact business growth, investment confidence, and ultimately job creation within the industry.
The event will also highlight the wide variety of careers available within the marine sector, ranging from technical and mechanical trades to hospitality, logistics, administration, operations, and management positions. By creating stronger alignment between industry needs, government support, and educational pathways, SMMTA and NESC hope to contribute to a more prepared and competitive local workforce.
“Sint Maarten’s marine industry offers tremendous opportunities for economic growth and career development, but continued success requires collaboration,” stated representatives of SMMTA. “This Immersion Day is about building better understanding between the industry and government, discussing the challenges affecting long-term sustainability, and working toward practical solutions that can strengthen both the sector and the local labor market.” Stated Jesse Peterson, President of the St. Maarten marine Trades Association.
Peggy-Ann Richardson, Division Head Labor Affairs and Social Services continues: “The collaboration with NESC further emphasizes the importance of proactively preparing Sint Maarten’s workforce for future industry demands through training programs, certifications, internships, and stronger educational support systems, while also addressing the broader factors that influence the overall health and competitiveness of the marine industry.”
Attendees will include representatives from government ministries, labor and education departments, industry stakeholders, marine businesses, and employment-focused organizations, all working toward the shared goal of creating stronger opportunities for the people of Sint Maarten through one of the island’s key economic sectors.
For additional information regarding the Marine Industry Immersion Day, interested parties are encouraged to contact SMMTA or NESC directly.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Today, representatives of the NV GEBE Management Team, led by Temporary Manager Ms. Iris Arrindell, met with two members of the ACP-SXM Board and their legal representative, Ms. Valya Pantophlet. Also present on behalf of NV GEBE was the company's legal representative, Ms. Florentine Paanakker of Lexwell Attorneys.
Prior to the meeting, ACP-SXM formally presented its petition to NV GEBE Management. The petition was signed and received by Temporary Manager Ms. Arrindell in the presence of ACP-SXM Board members and their supporters who had gathered for the peaceful march.
Following the presentation, both parties convened in the conference room of NV GEBE, where the ACP-SXM Board provided an overview of the points contained in the petition.
NV GEBE acknowledges receipt of the petition and appreciates the respectful and constructive dialogue that took place. Management will review the matters presented and continue to engage with all relevant stakeholders in the best interest of the company, its employees, and the people of Sint Maarten.