Important and special situation of the overseas countries and territories, including Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao

Question for written answer E-000313/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marit Maij (S&D), Thijs Reuten (S&D)

The Commission and the Dutch Government have an important relationship with overseas countries and territories (OCTs), including Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. These islands are situated 25-80 kms from Venezuela and the recent developments in the region may have a severe impact on them, with a risk of loss of economic activity. US tankers have been seen along the coast and criminal organisations based in Venezuela might move their operations to these OCTs. The Dutch Government and the Commission should be in close contact with the authorities of these OCTs and take into account their needs in response to the ongoing developments.

• 1.Is the Commission in regular contact with the authorities and citizens living on the OCTs, and how often is the Dutch Government in contact with the Commission to discuss the needs of the OCTs belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands?
• 2.Is the Commission fully aware of the specific positions of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao with regard to the current events in the region?
• 3.How does the Commission take the specific needs of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao into account, and does the EU have a formal crisis coordination protocol for and with OCTs close to conflict zones?

Submitted: 27.1.2026