From October 13 to 15, 2026, Aruba took part in the 6th edition of the Intercontinental Chess Championship for Prisoners, known as “Chess for Freedom.” This international event, held online, uses chess as a tool to promote personal development, discipline, strategic thinking, and social inclusion for inmates.
The project is the result of a year and a half of continuous work in Aruba, organized by the Chess Federation of Aruba (FAA) in collaboration with the Correctional Institute of Aruba (KIA).
Historic Participation and Results: In this edition, Aruba had a delegation of 17 participants divided into three teams:
- Youth Team: Consisting of 6 participants, who achieved fourth place.
- HVB Team (Remand/Pre-trial Unit): Consisting of 5 participants, who finished in third place.
- Strafafdeling Team (Convicted Section): Consisting of 6 participants, who took fourth place.
This program seeks to provide participants with opportunities for development and international competition as a step toward their reintegration process. The Ministry of Justice and Sports confirmed it will continue to collaborate with the Chess Federation of Aruba to provide the necessary equipment and resources for the program to keep expanding in the future.
