Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten, Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, exercised her right to vote, on Wednesday, October 29, during the national elections in the Netherlands. In her reflection, Minister Arrindell emphasized the importance of participating in the democratic process and the deeper meaning this right holds, especially for women: “Voting is not something I take for granted. Many citizens around the world do not have this opportunity for various reasons.As a woman, this right carries even deeper meaning, generations of women fought tirelessly for the right to have our voices heard at the ballot box.Each time I vote, I [...]

The Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary has published the 3rd Quarterly Newsletter (October 2025 edition), offering readers a glimpse into key highlights and initiatives from the past months. From The Hague to Philipsburg and beyond, this quarter has been one of connection, creativity, and collaboration, adding that this edition highlights the launch of the Diaspora Database, the arrival of new students in the Netherlands, and meaningful diplomatic engagements that reflect Sint Maarten’s growing visibility. The quarterly publication also looks back on cultural moments that brought the Cabinet together with various stakeholders, from the book presentation of Ralph Cantave to [...]

Social & Health Insurances (SZV) proudly announces a major improvement in service for pensioners residing in the Netherlands. Through a newly signed covenant with the Sociale Verzekeringsbank (SVB) Netherlands, pensioners will no longer be required to submit a Life Certificate twice a year. With this agreement, SZV and SVB Netherlands have established a secure file exchange system that allows both institutions to verify, on a monthly basis, if any pensioners have passed away. This development eliminates the need for pensioners in the Netherlands to submit Life Certificates in May and November to SZV, reducing administrative burdens and providing greater [...]

On October 13, Sint Maarten proudly commemorates its 15th anniversary as a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, celebrating Constitution Day under the theme “Fifteen Years of Country Status - Honoring Our Past, Shaping Our Future.” In recognition of this milestone, the Minister Plenipotentiary, Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, delivered a special address to the Parliament of Sint Maarten, joining officials and dignitaries from across the country in reflecting on Sint Maarten’s constitutional journey since October 10, 2010. In her remarks, Minister Arrindell looked back on the early years of nation-building, noting that the day serves not only [...]

Minister Plenipotentiary, Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, attended the 2025 Appeltjes van Oranje award ceremony at Noordeinde Palace in The Hague. The annual event, organized by the Oranje Fonds, celebrates inspiring social initiatives that strengthen communities across the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This year’s theme, “Onmisbare schakels” (“Indispensable links”), highlighted individuals and organizations that connect people and foster solidarity in society. The ceremony began with a welcome address by Tamara van Ark, Chair of the Oranje Fonds Board, followed by a panel discussion featuring Sandra Jetten, Matthijs Tiemens, Leyla Kalender, and Lonneke Roza. Her Majesty Queen Máxima, patroness of the [...]