Dowers: Global trend supports e-scooter ban

ORANJESTAD – Some time ago, Minister of Justice Arthur Dowers, based on a report prepared by the Traffic Safety Commission, decided to ban the use of e-scooters in Aruba. The measure was introduced to address serious concerns related to public safety and law enforcement. In recent years, e-scooters have become increasingly popular in many countries. At the same time, however, there has been a significant rise in accidents, serious injuries and incidents linked to their irresponsible use in public spaces. As a result, numerous countries have decided to either ban or strictly regulate their use. Belgium, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, France, Spain, Singapore, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands have all introduced restrictions or bans while stepping up enforcement. In Brussels alone, more than 660 people were injured in e-scooter accidents during 2025, prompting authorities to decide that shared e-scooters will be removed from public spaces beginning in 2027.

PREVENTING MORE ACCIDENTS

According to the Aruban government, the intention is not to wait until more serious or fatal accidents occur before taking action. The government considers it its responsibility to assess potential risks and implement preventive measures to protect residents, pedestrians and other users of public roads. In addition to safety concerns, companies in Aruba began offering rental e-scooters without obtaining the permits and official authorizations required to conduct commercial activities. This creates an additional problem, as no commercial enterprise may operate in public spaces or make use of public infrastructure without the supervision and approval required by law.

OPERATING WITHIN THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Minister Dowers emphasized that innovation and new forms of transportation are always welcome, provided they operate within the existing legal framework and respect public safety. No company may introduce a commercial service while expecting the government to amend legislation afterward to accommodate its business model. The proper process, he said, is to consult with the relevant authorities, comply with all legal requirements and obtain the necessary permits before beginning operations.

The minister stressed that the e-scooter ban is based on the principles of prevention, public safety and good governance. Aruba is not acting alone; authorities around the world have concluded that the benefits of e-scooters do not outweigh the risks and inconvenience they may pose to pedestrians, motorists and the wider community.

Minister Dowers added that the government remains in dialogue with business owners who rent out e-scooters while taking the necessary legal steps to ensure the process proceeds in accordance with the law.