The issue of Aruba pension equality 2026 was brought to the forefront by PPA Member of Parliament Eduard Pieters during a recent press conference in Oranjestad. Pieters welcomed recent steps taken to partially correct long-standing injustices faced by pensioners but stressed that serious inequality still remains within the current system.
According to Pieters, while the AVP–Futuro government introduced a compensation allowance intended to offset the rising cost of living, the measure has only benefited part of the pensioner population. As a result, one group of pensioners received financial support, while another group—facing the same economic pressures—received nothing. Pieters described this selective approach as socially and morally unjust.
He explained that the consequences of this unequal treatment are felt daily, particularly in essential expenses such as groceries, medication, and utility bills. The growing divide between pensioners who received the increase and those who did not has no fair or logical basis, especially when the cost of living affects everyone equally.
Pieters also criticized the gap between election promises and actual policy implementation. He recalled that the government had pledged salary increases for all pensioners, yet the approved increase of Afl. 250 includes conditions that exclude a significant number of retirees. He stated that this represents a clear break from what was promised to the public.
The parliamentarian further warned that public statements claiming the measure applies to all pensioners do not reflect reality. For the PPA, this raises serious concerns regarding transparency, credibility, and responsible governance. Pieters emphasized that social policy must be clear, honest, and inclusive, allowing pensioners to understand exactly where they stand and why differences exist.
Calling for fair and transparent policy, Pieters stated that there should be no first- or second-class pensioners in Aruba. If the government acknowledges that pension income is insufficient to meet living costs, then the solution must be general and structural—not partial.
The PPA advocates for a unified and fair pension policy that moves all pensioners closer to a basic living income standard, supported by clear rules, transparent criteria, and non-discriminatory implementation. Pieters stressed that social justice is not a political favor but a national obligation.
Concluding his remarks, Pieters emphasized that Aruba’s pensioners built the country through years of work and sacrifice. He reaffirmed that the PPA will continue to stand up for dignity, equality, and respect, stating that pensioners deserve serious attention, fair treatment, and inclusive social policies without exception.
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