SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Strengthening Sint Maarten's ability to recognize human trafficking, protect victims and bring traffickers to justice was the focus of a five-day training programme organized by the National Reporting Center (NRC), in partnership with the Prosecutor's Office (OM), from October 19 to 23, 2026.
The training responds to shortcomings highlighted in the United States Department of State's Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, which placed Sint Maarten in Tier 3, the lowest classification for governments' efforts to combat human trafficking.
Tier 3 means a country does not fully meet minimum anti-trafficking standards and is not making significant efforts to do so. The classification brings increased international scrutiny and potential restrictions on certain forms of US assistance, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.
Led by Mr. Maarten Noordzij, National Prosecutor for Human Trafficking in the Netherlands, the training focused on recognizing exploitation, protecting victims, investigating suspected offences, and strengthening cooperation among agencies.
Ms. Florence Marlin, Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice, delivered the opening keynote address. Chief Prosecutor Manon Ridderbeks and the prosecutor responsible for human trafficking cases Ms. Carlijn Casteleijns emphasized the importance of a coordinated national response.
A key focus was distinguishing human trafficking from migrant smuggling. Smuggling generally involves facilitating illegal entry into a country for payment, while trafficking involves exploitation through force, deception, or coercion and does not require crossing borders.
This distinction is critical, as someone encountered during an immigration inspection may be a trafficking victim needing protection rather than an immigration offender.
Human trafficking can occur in plain sight, including in workplaces and private homes. Warning signs may include confiscated passports, threats, unpaid labour or restrictions on a person's movements. Victims may fear seeking help because of threats, financial dependence, or concerns about their immigration status.
Organized under the leadership of National Coordinator Mr. Erling Hoeve, the programme brought together law enforcement agencies, inspectorates, and partner services to strengthen victim identification, referral procedures, and investigations.
Representatives of the Prosecutor’s Office, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, the Police Force of Sint Maarten, including UMM and the ALPHA Team, the Customs Department, and the Immigration and Border Protection Service were present for the session.
Also participating were Cabinet staff, representatives of the Department of Labour and Social Affairs, the Inspectorate of Health, Food Safety and Labour of the Ministry of VSA, and the Inspectorate of Economic Control, Casino Control and Transport of the Ministry of TEATT. The programme was geared towards strengthening cooperation between these services and partner service providers in addressing these complex crimes.
Through case discussions and practical exercises, participants explored how information gathered during inspections, investigations, and service delivery can help identify victims and trigger appropriate intervention.
The training addressed TIP Report recommendations for stronger cooperation, improved victim referrals, information sharing, and effective investigations. However, lasting progress requires sustained action to identify victims, provide protection, and hold traffickers accountable. While the training has concluded, the work continues.
See Something, Say Something.
Human trafficking often remains hidden because victims are afraid or unable to seek help. Residents, employers, and service providers of the community can help by recognizing warning signs and reporting any suspicion of exploitation. A single report may help protect someone from further harm.
Learn more at www.nrc.sx/know-the-signs.
If you suspect human trafficking or migrant smuggling, report it at www.nrc.sx/report, call the NRC hotline at 9300, or scan the QR code below.
