2016 — Execution of the investigative task by the Coast Guard in Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and the Caribbean Netherlands

This inspection report examines the investigative tasks of the Coast Guard in the Caribbean of the Kingdom. The central question is to what extent the Coast Guard fulfills its investigative task, but a clear framework of standards is lacking. The complexity of the organizational structure, tension between countries and poor cooperation make it difficult to clearly manage priorities and performance. The Council concludes that the effectiveness of the Coast Guard is limited by inappropriate KPIs, tensions between countries, inadequate maritime information sharing, and a shortage of radar and flight capacity in certain regions. Budgetary problems, partly caused by exchange rate differences, affect operational deployment. Criminal law knowledge and investigative skills are insufficiently developed in the training. Recommendations focus on improving the information position, cooperation and combating crime, as well as investments in equipment and personnel policy. Better coordination and clear performance indicators are essential for a more effective execution of the investigative task.