During the visit, the delegation held meetings with representatives from the Ministries of Social Affairs and Employment (SZW), Education, Culture and Science (OCW), Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), Justice and Security (JenV), and Housing and Spatial Planning (VRO), as well as the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG), the Dutch Association for Debt Assistance and Social Banking (NVVK), and other partner organisations.
The discussions addressed several areas important to the well-being of Statia’s residents, including poverty reduction, employment opportunities, public health, youth development, education, sport, culture and heritage, social support, debt assistance, reintegration into society and social housing.
A key focus of the visit was improving coordination between national policies and their implementation on Statia. The delegation also explored ways to strengthen professional partnerships, address staffing and funding challenges, and establish more sustainable long-term cooperation.
“The purpose of this mission was to strengthen the working relationships behind the programmes we implement on Statia. Our priority is to ensure that national policies and investments translate into practical, accessible and sustainable support for our community.”
The working visit forms part of the Social Domain’s ongoing efforts to improve access to essential services, encourage greater community participation and strengthen social well-being on Statia.
The outcomes of the meetings will help guide the next steps under Strong Roots 2.0 and related Social Domain programmes, with a continued focus on improving services and support for the Statian community.
