ORANJESTAD (AAN): AVP Parliamentarian Carlos Bermudez has called on the government to urgently inspect the hotel and hospitality sector to address widespread worker rights violations.
The Aruba Hotel Worker Rights Inspection Call comes after numerous reports of mistreatment, including verbal abuse, unlawful suspensions, discrimination, harassment, and violations of minimum wage laws.
Bermudez highlighted many concerns reportedly raised by workers:
- Intimidation and pressure
- False reports and wrongful suspension
- Unlawful contracts or probation periods
- Failure to pay legal minimum wage (Afl.11.58/hour)
- Verbal abuse, harassment, and bullying
- Discrimination and unequal treatment
- Excessive workloads beyond job descriptions
- Lack of promotion or professional growth
- Misuse of tips to meet pay requirements
Following growing testimony and inbox complaints from workers, Bermudez submitted an official letter to the Minister of Tourism and Labor requesting an urgent inspection plan specific to the hospitality sector.
The Aruba Hotel Worker Rights Inspection Call emphasizes the need for enforcement of labor laws and protection for workers, regardless of nationality or position. Bermudez stressed that while some allegations involve foreign management, the focus is on behavior — not nationality — and called for training to ensure respect for Aruba’s labor regulations.
Bermudez urged swift action and reinforced that respecting labor law is not optional, calling for unity and strength in protecting workers’ rights.
The Aruba Hotel Worker Rights Inspection Call highlights growing concern about working conditions in the hospitality industry and the need for oversight to ensure fairness and legal compliance.
