The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), has initiated a household expenditure study in collaboration with the Nationaal Instituut voor Budgetvoorlichting (Nibud), as part of the ongoing implementation of the Country Reform Packages. The study aims to provide evidence-based insights into the buildup of necessary household expenditures for different household compositions in Sint Maarten and the resources required for residents to participate meaningfully in society. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen data-driven policymaking and improve understanding of the financial realities experienced by households across the country.
Image: © Nydia Adam
Nibud is an independent Dutch knowledge institute specializing in household finances, budgeting, and financial resilience. The organization is widely recognized for its expertise in conducting research on minimum household expenditure needs, financial behavior, and social participation. Nibud has also conducted similar household expenditure and social minimum studies within the Caribbean Netherlands, including Aruba, Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba, providing valuable insights to support social and economic policy development in small island contexts.
The assessment will examine key expenditure categories including housing, utilities, food security, healthcare, childcare, transportation, education, insurance, and social participation. Special attention will also be given to the experiences of vulnerable groups and residents who have faced financial hardship or challenges in making ends meet.
Minister of VSA emphasized that the study is intended to establish an objective and factual foundation for future policy discussions.
"Reliable and locally grounded data is essential for responsible social and economic policymaking. This study will help provide a clearer understanding of household expenditure patterns and the financial pressures experienced by different groups within our community."
The findings are expected to support ongoing discussions and policy directions related to social minimum standards, financial resilience, and the effectiveness of public social support systems on the island. The Government remains committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders, community organizations, and technical partners to determine what "participation in society" per household composition truly means for Sint Maarten. Their engagement will ensure that future social policies are responsive to the needs of the population.
To set clear expectations, the Ministry wishes to note that the launch of this study does not constitute the introduction of new financial assistance programs, direct income support measures, or automatic adjustments to wages, benefits, or social assistance levels. The study is intended as a research and policy development tool to support informed decision-making over the longer term.
The Ministry encourages members of the public and relevant stakeholders to participate and cooperate when approached by the research team. They will be reaching out to a broad range of stakeholders, including policy advisors, employers' associations, social housing organizations, schools, and residents across Sint Maarten. Public participation is essential in ensuring that the findings truly reflect life on the island.
In addition to the study, Nibud, in collaboration with the Department of Social Development (VSA), will focus on local capacity building and long-term sustainability during its work visit to Sint Maarten in the first week of June. The training program is designed to equip professionals who interact with vulnerable groups with Nibud's tools and methodologies, enabling them to better support and guide clients in managing their household finances. It aims to strengthen local knowledge and improve understanding of household budgeting methodologies, community engagement, and financial vulnerability assessments. This initiative will bring together representatives from various government departments, community organizations, and social support agencies that work closely with vulnerable groups. Participating organizations include Social Services, Community Development, Social Registry, Family & Humanitarian Affairs (CDFHA), Student Support Services Division (SSSD), Judicial & Institutional Services, Victim Support Services, and civil society partners such as Freegan Food Foundation.