Former politician Leonardo Figaroa has publicly criticized a proposed initiative law regarding student loans, describing the legislation as a political stunt that offers no real aid to students. Figaroa shared his frustration in a Facebook post, stating that while he usually avoids criticizing opposition strategies, he felt compelled to speak out when politicians play with the future of the student community.
Figaroa stated that the proposed law by Edgard Vrolijk and Evelyn Wever-Croes fails to address the actual needs of professional students. He referenced previous legislation by Vrolijk that received severe criticism from the Raad van Advies for resolving nothing. Analyzing the current regulations, Figaroa explained that debt relief options are stringent. The system offers a partial “kwijtschelding,” where a student must pay two-thirds of the loan to receive a 35% reduction, or a conditional model requiring adherence to five minimum criteria plus two additional ones to receive a 7% annual relief.
The commentator argued that these requirements discriminate against young professionals who prefer consultancy work, self-employment, or flexible labor relationships.
