Dutch Defence to permanently monitor security around Dutch Caribbean

THE HAGUE — The Dutch Ministry of Defence has been given a permanent task to monitor the security situation around the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, including Aruba. The decision aims to identify threats earlier and anticipate geopolitical developments that could affect the region.

The task replaces a temporary mandate in place since September last year. According to the Dutch cabinet, rising geopolitical tensions require a continuous flow of information on the activities of countries and non-state actors in the Caribbean Sea.

Monitoring will include changes in other countries’ military presence and activities in the region. It will become a structural part of the armed forces’ duties.

Defence already maintains personnel and equipment in the Dutch Caribbean to protect Kingdom territory, support the international legal order and assist civilian authorities.