The SADA ILO complaint Aruba could damage and Netherlands reputation, according to Edward Maduro, president of the Sindicato Aduanero di Aruba (SADA), who warned that escalating tensions between the union and authorities could lead to international consequences.
Maduro explained that since 2017, the union has faced ongoing challenges related to the management of the Aruba Customs Department, particularly under the leadership of director Roderick Croes.
Conflict Escalated After Disciplinary Action
According to Maduro, the situation worsened last year when a member of the union’s board received a disciplinary action, a move that did not receive approval from the union’s leadership.
He stated that if the current obstacles continue and there is no clear solution from the government, it may no longer make sense for the current board to continue its work.
Maduro warned that the union leadership is considering the possibility of filing a formal complaint at the international level, including with the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Possible International Consequences
Maduro stressed that the SADA ILO complaint could damage Aruba and Netherlands reputation, because Aruba forms part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Netherlands is also affiliated with the ILO.
If a formal complaint were submitted, he argued, it could create a negative mark in the international community, particularly regarding respect for trade union rights.
The union leader noted that in some countries where governments suppress union activity, such actions have led to serious violations of workers’ rights.
Union Emphasizes Workers’ Rights
Maduro emphasized that SADA has always tried to resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation. However, if solutions cannot be reached through discussion, the union may be forced to take additional steps.
He reiterated that workers have the right to join and organize within unions, and that when union members stand together, their collective strength should not be obstructed by employers or governments.
Maduro concluded that without leadership there can be no union, and without a union the situation for workers could worsen.
