Aruba is facing a crucial moment in its social, cultural, and political development. Currently, approximately 60 percent of the population are Arubans born in Aruba, while 40 percent are immigrants who have chosen Aruba as their new home some who entered legally and followed the correct path, but others who entered illegally, violating the country’s laws, yet received a government dispensation from the AVP–FUTURO administration to transition from illegal to legal status. This fact in itself is not a problem, but it does pose an important challenge for preserving Aruba’s identity and social cohesion.
The real concern is that Aruba must strengthen its efforts to educate and inform immigrants about the island’s history, culture, and fundamental values. Without a conscious and structured integration process, there is a risk that Aruba’s cultural identity will be diluted, transforming the island into something that no longer corresponds to the “Dushi Aruba” that we all wish to preserve. Integration is not assimilation, but there must be respect for Aruba’s culture and traditions.
In this context, former MEP leader Nelson Oduber called for an awareness campaign about “what Aruba is.” According to Oduber, this should apply not only to immigrants but also to the Netherlands, considering that Aruba is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
A serious concern is that Aruba currently does not have a Minister Plenipotentiary in the Netherlands. This absence creates difficulties for Aruban students and citizens in the Netherlands, who regularly face discrimination and unequal treatment despite holding a Dutch passport. Many Arubans feel that they are treated as “foreigners” within a Kingdom of which they are officially part.
The position of Minister Plenipotentiary is essential to defend Aruba’s interests and ensure a respectful and balanced relationship with the Netherlands. However, according to Nelson Oduber, the current government has not demonstrated effective leadership in this area. He criticized Minister Gerlien Croes for a lack of clarity and vision regarding the relationship between Aruba and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
There is also criticism regarding political immaturity within the current government. Oduber mentioned that some young politicians, such as Wendrick Cecilia, make statements without deep analysis particularly about the future of Aruba’s tourism. If crime and vandalism continue to rise, Aruba risks losing its reputation as a safe and peaceful destination, which is a key factor for its economy.