Staying alert to human trafficking: trainings launched on Bonaire
From 14 to 17 April, the first training sessions took place on Bonaire as part ofs within the 2025 Human Trafficking and Human Smuggling Year Programme took place on Bonaire. Professionals from the judicial and care chains deepened their knowledge on recognising signs and responding to suspected suspicions of exploitation. These trainings sessions mark the beginning start of a year full of activities focused on awareness, collaboration and action.
Participants from the judicial chain attended a specialist training on 14 and 15 April, focused on identifying and addressing human trafficking and smuggling. On 16 and 17 April, care professionals took part in a training aimed at both introductory and advanced levels, tailored to their daily work.
Human trafficking is a serious and often invisible form of exploitation. Victims are forced — through pressure, deception or threats — into labour, sexual acts, or criminal activities. Young people are particularly vulnerable: they may be pressured into transporting drugs, stealing goods, or laundering money.
During the training, the section on the exploitation of young people made a strong impression on participants. It sparked open conversations about how signs can be recognized in practice and what role each professional can play.
Later this year, similar trainings will be held on St. Eustatius and Saba. This ensures that all of the Caribbean Netherlands has the opportunity to strengthen knowledge, improve early detection, and collaborate more effectively within the judicial and care chains.
Signs of human trafficking may include:
- Someone who does not have control over their own documents (such as a passport or ID);
- People who appear fearful, dependent or withdrawn;
- Young people with expensive items or cash, without a clear explanation;
- Individuals working without pay, in poor conditions, or at odd hours.
It is important to always report suspicions of human trafficking. You can do so via KPCN at the email address meldmensenhandel@politiecn.com or anonymously via the tip line: 9310.
For more information, visit: www.rijksdienstcn.com
Together against human trafficking – our islands, our responsibility.
