CaPAS Seminar Brings Together Pension Stakeholders From Across the Dutch Caribbean
MAHO, St. Maarten – More than 90 participants from across the Dutch Caribbean gathered last Thursday at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort for a regional pension seminar organized by CAPAS under the theme “For our shared future.”
The afternoon seminar focused on the role of pension systems in building long-term prosperity and resilience in the Dutch Caribbean and brought together representatives from pension funds, governments, financial institutions and other stakeholders from throughout the former Netherlands Antilles.
Acting Minister of Finance Nathalie Tackling delivered the opening address on behalf of the Ministry of Finance. Tackling, who previously served as Chairlady of the Board of the Algemeen Pensioenfonds St. Maarten (APS), emphasized the importance of sustainable pension systems and regional cooperation.
Governor Ajamu Baly was not only present during the opening ceremony, but remained throughout the entire seminar and actively participated in the breakout sessions, something participants said was highly appreciated.
The programme featured keynote presentations by Daniel van Vuuren, Onno Steenbeek and Parveen Boertje, who addressed topics ranging from demographic change and pension governance to financial literacy and social resilience.
Participants later joined interactive breakout sessions facilitated by Emilio Kalmera, Johan Oldenboom and Shekinah Dare. The sessions, which focused on financial resilience, generational solidarity and pension system sustainability, were widely appreciated for their interactive nature and for challenging participants to examine pension-related challenges from different perspectives.
Pleased
APS director Oscar Williams said he was very pleased with how the day unfolded.
“We have received a great deal of positive feedback from participants. The seminar was not only about pensions in a technical or financial sense, but about how strong and resilient pension systems contribute to overall prosperity, social stability and a dignified old age for people throughout the Dutch Caribbean. The discussions were meaningful, participation was high and people clearly appreciated the opportunity to exchange ideas on issues that are important for the future of our region,” Williams said.
Following the formal closing session, participants continued networking during an informal gathering. Despite a brief rain shower, the atmosphere remained lively as attendees from different islands continued discussions and exchanged ideas well into the evening.
Forward looking
The seminar concluded with a forward-looking discussion on strengthening resilience and prosperity in the Dutch Caribbean through sustainable and inclusive pension systems.
