During the discussion of the budget for the Ombudsman Office for the year 2026, I emphasized that the budget for the ombudsman “is not merely a matter of numbers, but the financial heart needed to ensure a strong, independent, and effective institution. A fundamental pillar to protect our citizens against misgovernance.”
I stated that 2026 will represent a year of consolidation following the establishment of the institution in 2024–2025. I also expressed my hope that the Ombudsman will soon have a complete team in place to provide services. This includes the Child Ombudsman, which will make Aruba the only country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands that has this function officially anchored in law and operational for the protection of children’s rights. We may be the last in the Kingdom to establish an Ombudsman, but we are the first island with a Child Ombudsman anchored in law. This demonstrates institutional maturity and a real commitment to children’s rights.
Budget and Independence
As a parliamentarian, I highlighted that the budget complies with the Venice Principles, ensuring financial independence for a High Council of State. I gathered information on, among others, staffing capacity, funds for research, IT, and reporting, and I can say that proper preparation has taken place to begin operations and provide the public with the essential service of an ombudsman.
The Office will operate with 11.5 FTE, and already 6 people have been officially appointed, including the Ombudsman. If all goes according to plan, we will meet our Child Ombudsman around March. The staffing process is progressing smoothly, and the expectation is that the team will soon be complete.
I asked the Ombudsman to ensure a proper balance between the delivery of services and the simultaneous training that the staff will undergo. Because once a citizen submits a complaint, there is a certain desire and expectation for results. A good balance between training and service quality is essential for a strong start.
Finally, it is good for the public to know that the Ombudsman is already functioning. A soft opening will take place soon, and two investigations have already been completed. These investigations concerned the following topics:
* Children attending school and the requirement to submit a sick note;
* Mapping all the institutions to which the Ombudsman can refer a complaint that does not fall under his mandate, ensuring that referrals can be made diligently and quickly and that the citizen can continue their complaint process.
To conclude, I wish the Ombudsman Office complete success in their mission to protect our people. And I emphasized that we all want a strong start for our ombudsman.
Press release: MEP