The Aruba human trafficking and smuggling fight is being strengthened as authorities and officials call for greater awareness and action.
On April 1, 2026, Parliament received a presentation from the Coordination Center for Human Trafficking and Smuggling Aruba (CMMA). The presentation highlighted the important work carried out by team members Jeanette Baars and Suekyen Croes in protecting the country and its people from serious crimes such as human trafficking and human smuggling.
Human smuggling is considered a crime against the state and involves helping individuals enter Aruba illegally or providing them with shelter or illegal employment. Under Aruba law, such offenses can result in prison sentences of up to 18 years. CMMA reported strong results in combating this type of criminal activity.
Human trafficking, however, is considered more severe as it directly violates human rights. It includes situations where individuals are exploited, forced into labor or prostitution, not paid, or treated like slaves. Authorities stressed that these issues are not distant problems but are present in Aruba as well.
The Aruba human trafficking and smuggling fight also focuses on raising public awareness. Officials emphasized the importance of educating the community to recognize warning signs and report suspicious activities.
MEP leader Evelyn Wever-Croes expressed her appreciation for CMMA’s efforts, highlighting their dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals and maintaining Aruba as a safe and just society. She also reaffirmed her continued support for the organization and stressed the importance of parliamentary engagement on this issue.
She encouraged the public to remain vigilant and take responsibility by not ignoring potential cases, emphasizing that collective action is key in combating human trafficking and smuggling.
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