Decent work
Partnering for decent work in Aruba
With shared priorities such as productivity, social protection, labour migration and a just transition, the ILO remains a dedicated partner in building a future where every worker and employer can succeed.
20 June 2025
Oranjestad, Aruba (ILO News). The ILO Caribbean Office recently concluded a productive and high-level mission to Aruba during 17-20 June 2025, engaging with Government officials, employers, workers to understand national priorities and perspectives regarding decent work, social justice, and inclusive economic growth.
Led by ILO Caribbean Director, Mr. Joni Musabayana, the mission reinforced key partnerships and laid the foundation for sustained collaboration on Aruba’s evolving labour market priorities.
A standout moment during the visit was Director Musabayana’s keynote address at the 80th anniversary celebration of the Aruba Trade and Industry Association (ATIA) on 18 June 2025. In his remarks, he underscored the private sector’s vital role in job creation, innovation, and inclusive development, emphasizing that businesses are essential partners in building a more equitable and sustainable future for Aruba. “Celebrating this milestone is an opportunity to acknowledge ATIA's enduring dedication to the business community and its positive impact on Aruba’s economic landscape,” said Musabayana.
The mission also presented an opportunity to meet Prime Minister, the Honourable Mike Eman. The Prime Minister expressed strong support for the ILO’s continued engagement in ensuring that economic growth delivers fair opportunities for all, supported by robust social protection systems that leave no one behind.
Further deepening the engagement, the ILO’s team met with the Minister of Tourism, Transport and Labour, the Honourable Mr. Wendrick C. Cicilia, to explore how national labour policies can align with Aruba’s broader economic vision. Discussions focused on Aruba’s implementation of the ‘Landspakket’ or Country Package signed between Aruba and the Netherlands, reflections on the ratifications extended to Aruba by the Netherlands, opportunities to promote decent work in sustainable tourism and the governance of migration.
The ILO met with trade union leaders to discuss key issues around workers’ rights, collective bargaining, ratification of Conventions and labour legislation. These exchanges underscored the value of empowering workers and maintaining strong labour standards as Aruba navigates economic transformation.
The meeting with the ATIA reemphasized the challenges of a booming tourism sector that is met with severe labour shortages. The country’s implementation of the Landspakket was considered critical to addressing constraints along with a focused look at productivity.
This commitment to dialogue was further reinforced in discussions with the Social and Economic Council of Aruba (SER Aruba), a vital Tripartite Advisory Body comprising Government, employers, and workers. Conversations focused on labour market trends, inclusive policy development, and migration. The ILO reaffirmed its support for evidence-based policymaking and strong tripartite cooperation as essential tools for addressing emerging labour challenges.
Decent Work and social justice are central to Aruba’s progress. With shared priorities such as productivity, social protection, labour migration and a just transition, the ILO remains a dedicated partner in building a future where every worker and employer can succeed.
Together, we are turning commitment into action for a stronger and sustainable Aruba.