PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) extends heartfelt congratulations to the filmmaker and the Breaking the Chokehold Initiative team for the successful completion of their series of community screenings and expresses his enthusiasm for continued collaboration.
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — December 2025
The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) announced that the Honorable Minister Richinel S. J. Brug participated in Sint Maarten’s national observance of the annual Unite 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, held from 25 November to 10 December 2025.
The campaign, which began on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) and concluded on International Human Rights Day (10 December), underscored the global community’s commitment to ending violence against women and girls, while strengthening systems that protect dignity, safety, and human rights for all.
In alignment with this year’s theme, the Ministry of VSA partnered with the Breaking the Chokehold Initiative, a community-centered program dedicated to advancing proactive and prevention-based approaches to domestic violence. This initiative placed national focus on: • Early recognition of domestic violence indicators • Safe exit planning before crisis escalation • Strengthening the role of community observers • Promoting community leadership and accountability • Supporting victims while upholding professional and ethical boundaries.
As part of the 16 Days of Activism, the Ministry and its partners hosted three free community screenings of the film Choke Hold, followed by expert panel discussions and a specialized workshop titled “Be Informed. Be Aware. Stand for Change.” The workshop, held on the final night at the University of St. Martin, was facilitated by Ms. Cassandra Richardson, a respected advocate and practitioner in gender-based violence prevention.

Panelists included: • Ms. Patsy Richardson – Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) • Ms. Ramona Riley – Domestic Violence Advocate • Dr. Nolan Nanthon – Mental Health Professional • Dr. Ann Marlin-Evans – Clinical Trauma Specialist • Mr. Hubert Pantophlet – Community Representative.
Throughout the observance, Minister Brug emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in combating domestic violence. He stated: “The prevention of domestic violence requires coordinated community action. Through education, awareness, and early intervention, we strengthen our families and communities. The Ministry of VSA remains committed to supporting initiatives that safeguard the well-being and protection of all residents.”
Program Credits: Film: Choke Hold Production: Caribcine Productions & Partners Producer: Mr. Joel Ayuk Moderator: Prince Herbert Martina Trauma Specialist: Simply Ann
The Ministry expressed appreciation to the breaking the chokehold team, panelists & the residents of Sint Maarten who attended the community screening, panel discussion, and workshop and contributed to a unified national response aimed at reducing—and ultimately eliminating—domestic violence in the community.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina met on Monday afternoon with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof for a constructive discussion on national security, the recent rise in organized crime, and developments in the wider Caribbean region. The meeting served to reinforce cooperation within the Kingdom and to reassure the people of Sint Maarten that all necessary steps are being taken to maintain national security and public safety.

In response to the recent incidents affecting local businesses and both visitors and citizens, including the robberies at Divi Little Bay, Simpson Bay and in Maho, Prime Minister Mercelina in dialogue and collaboration with the Minister of Justice, Ms. Nathalie Tackling, formally requested temporary military assistance from the Netherlands. This is a precautionary measure aimed at strengthening visible security and supporting local law enforcement during this period.

The concerns of Sint Maarten will be brought to the attention of the Dutch Minister of Defense and Minister of Justice.

Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized the government’s commitment to immediate and effective action:
“The safety of our visitors and citizens is our highest priority. We are working closely with the Ministry of Justice, KPSM, and the Dutch Marines to ensure an increased security presence at key locations as quickly as possible. I appreciate the active coordination efforts of Minister Tackling, and the understanding from the Netherlands and, in particular, Prime Minister Schoof that this is a matter of high urgency for our country.”

The two leaders also discussed the United States' regional military activity in the Caribbean. Prime Minister Schoof reaffirmed that the Netherlands is not involved in these operations and that there is no immediate direct threat to Sint Maarten or the wider Kingdom. All U.S. actions are occurring outside the territorial waters of the Kingdom, and there is no indication that Aruba, Curaçao, or Sint Maarten would become involved in any conflict or military escalation.

Following the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Mercelina joined Prime Minister Mike Eman of Aruba and Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas of Curaçao for a regular security briefing with Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. David van Weel. The discussion focused on increased tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Minister van Weel again confirmed that, while monitoring continues and standard preparations are in place, there is currently no direct or immediate threat to any of the Dutch Caribbean countries.

Prime Minister Mercelina expressed confidence in the coordinated approach:
“I appreciate the ongoing and transparent communication between the Netherlands, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. While we take prudent steps to remain prepared, we want to reassure our community that there is no immediate threat to the Kingdom. Together with our Kingdom partners, we remain united, vigilant, and focused on maintaining safety and stability for our people.”

French Quarter, St. Martin:---  The Les Fruits de Mer association invites the public to the free, holiday-themed launch for Oualichi Kids Island. The new coloring book showcases our local wildlife. The festive launch event will be held this Saturday, December 13, from 9 am to noon at Amuseum Naturalis. Children and adults will enjoy free holiday crafts, including decorating cookies and wooden ornaments shaped like our island wildlife. Free copies of the new book will be given away at the event, and light refreshments will be served.

Oualichi Kids Island features easy-to-color art of St. Martin animals and their names in English, French, Spanis,h and Dutch. It is the first book in the new Oualichi Kids book series from Les Fruits de Mer. The association created the new series in response to the requests of early education teachers for St. Martin coloring books with simple illustrations for the very young, and large-print animal names.

“Oualichi is one of the Amerindian names for this island,” said author Jenn Yerkes. “Oualichi Kids Island is specially made for the little ones who live in this unique multi-lingual place.”

“It’s a fun way for little kids to start connecting with the natural heritage of their island,” said Mark Yokoyama, co-founder of Les Fruits de Mer. “Plus it makes a great holiday gift,” added Yerkes. “So pass by and get a free copy at the Amuseum this Saturday morning!”

Free copies of Oualichi Kids Island will be given away at the launch, and festive art activities, cookie decorating and refreshments will be offered thanks to event sponsor Delta Petroleum. The free event will be held on Saturday December 13 at Amuseum Naturalis at The Old House in French Quarter from 9am to noon.

The new book is also available as a free download from lesfruitsdemer.com, and for purchase on amazon.com worldwide. Teachers and youth group leaders interested in copies are encouraged to contact Les Fruits de Mer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Companies, organizations or individuals interested in sponsoring copies for schools are also encouraged to contact the association.

Free printed copies of Oualichi Kids Island will also be given to local schools as part of Les Fruits de Mer’s book program. This project is supported by Vie Associative and the Politique de la ville de Saint-Martin, implemented by the State and the Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Oualichi Kids Island was produced with support from Vie Associative, the Collectivité de Saint-Martin and the Agence nationale de la cohésion des territoires.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Government of Sint Maarten has taken another significant step in strengthening our civil service and unlocking funding opportunities with the formal signing of the Certificate of Extraordinary Membership with the Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG International). The signing took place immediately following a high-level working meeting between the Government of Sint Maarten and VNG International representatives.

Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina was accompanied by a formal delegation which included the Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten, Gracita Arrindell, and Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, Mr. Stuart Johnson. Their presence affirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening governance frameworks, ensuring compliance, and maximizing future opportunities for cooperation.

The certificate, co-signed by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina and VNG Chair and Mayor of Utrecht Sharon Dijksma, officially recognizes Sint Maarten's extraordinary membership. Reflecting on the occasion, the Prime Minister stated, “The signing of this certificate is far more than a formality — it is a statement of confidence in Sint Maarten’s future. Through this strengthened partnership with VNG International, we are unlocking new avenues of support, knowledge exchange, and technical expertise that will directly improve the lives of our people.”

During the constructive meeting, the Government of Sint Maarten and VNG International discussed several priority areas for a 10 year program. These include enhancing mental health services, support the training of medical professionals and transitioning toward greener and more sustainable energy sources. The discussions also addressed outstanding technical assistance under the TWO country packages, including the status of available support and the potential reallocation of remaining resources.

Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized the value of these areas of cooperation, noting, “We are committed to modernizing Sint Maarten through evidence-based policies, professional capacity, and strong partnerships. VNG International can help us build the systems and expertise our ministries and institutions need to deliver at the highest level.”

Human resource development also featured prominently in the discussions, with a focus on recruitment needs within key ministries, the creation of training opportunities for medical specialists, and the development of pathways for other medical personnel in anticipation of the opening of our new hospital. These initiatives align with the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the civil service and enhance the island’s professional workforce.
“Our people are our greatest resource,” PM Dr. Mercelina added. “By investing in training and development, we are investing in a stronger, more resilient Sint Maarten.”

The signing of the certificate symbolizes shared values of equality, trust, and responsible cooperation between Sint Maarten and VNG International. Concluding the meeting, Prime Minister Mercelina remarked, “Sint Maarten stands ready to work side-by-side with VNG International to build the strong, professional, service-oriented public sector our citizens deserve. Today’s signing marks a new chapter — one where cooperation leads to real, tangible progress for our island nation.”