The Executive Council of Bonaire has taken an important step toward the establishing a Citizens’ Rights Office. A Start Note has been submitted to the Island Council for consideration. Through this initiative, the Executive Council aims to strengthen the legal position of residents and improve access to support in legal and administrative matters.
The intended Citizens’ Rights Office will be an independent entity offering free assistance to citizens. This includes support with legal questions, filing complaints, filing objections, and – if necessary – appeal against decisions made by government agencies or public service organizations.
This may include institutions such as the health insurance provider (ZJCN), the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), the hospital, the Tax Office, the local government, and publicly owned companies like WEB, SELIBON, and BIA.
“A just society requires that people have access to their rights. That should not depend on their financial means. That is why we, as the Executive Council, want to contribute to supporting citizens in claiming their rights – even aga
With this initiative, the Executive Council emphasizes the importance of equal access to legal protection for all residents of Bonaire. The further development of the office will be carried out in close cooperation with the Dutch central government and the National Ombudsman to ensure a well-structured and responsive service point for the public.