The Caribbean Coast Guard marked its 30th anniversary on 1 February. With simultaneous jubilee receptions held on Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten, the organization reflected on three decades of cooperation and commitment to maritime safety in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
During the celebrations, attention was given to the development of the organization since its establishment in 1996. What began as a small-scale collaboration between various security services has grown into a professional organization operating 24 hours a day at sea and in the air. Over the years, the Coast Guard expanded its fleet and air capabilities and invested in modern equipment and supporting infrastructure.
The composition of the workforce has also changed significantly. Whereas in the early years the organization mainly relied on defense personnel, the majority of the workforce today consists of local staff. This has firmly anchored the Coast Guard within Caribbean society.
Training and professionalization remain key priorities. The Coast Guard now operates an accredited training program and increasingly works according to an intelligence-led approach, in close cooperation with partners across the security chain.
Expansion
Looking ahead, the Coast Guard is working toward becoming a fully 24/7 intelligence-led organization, accompanied by an expansion of its staffing levels. According to its leadership, the anniversary marks not only a moment of reflection, but also a step toward further strengthening the organization and its role in maritime security.
