WILLEMSTAD:--- The Social Economic Council (SER) of Curaçao presented its 2023 annual report on Tuesday to Prime Minister Mr. Gilmar Pisas and Chair of Parliament Mrs. Charetti America-Francisca. The report offers a detailed account of the council’s efforts to address the island’s socio-economic challenges over the past year.
The report highlights key initiatives, including SER’s involvement in revising tax laws and a push for an increase in the minimum wage— efforts seen as vital to strengthening Curaçao’s socio-economic foundations. The wage hike, which raised the minimum hourly rate, was aimed at preserving the purchasing power of workers amid inflationary pressures. The council also advised on the creation of a deposit guarantee system, a move designed to protect savers from financial crises and strengthen public confidence in the local banking sector.
Sustainable development remained a central focus for the SER, which symbolically raised the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) flag to demonstrate its commitment to global priorities. Initiatives promoting waste reduction and renewable energy underscored this commitment. Additionally, the SER hosted the “Future of Work in Curaçao” conference, addressing how technological innovation and migration are reshaping the island’s labor market.
“In 2023, the SER made significant strides in fortifying Curaçao’s socio-economic resilience while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future,” said Mr. Raul Henriquez, the council’s Director and Secretary General. “Our work on minimum wage increases, tax reform, and the deposit guarantee system exemplifies our ongoing commitment to creating a more equitable and resilient society.”
The full 2023 annual report is available through the SER’s official website, offering a comprehensive look at the council’s initiatives and socio-economic policy recommendations over the past year. For more information, visit www.ser.cw.
