Aruba

Aruba is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands located in the southern Caribbean Sea. It has a unique status, known as an "autonomous territory," with a high degree of self-governance. Aruba is one of the four countries that make up the Kingdom of the Netherlands, alongside the Netherlands, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.

Though the island is currently known as a tourist destination, its proximity to Venezuela led to its fast industrialization during the 20^th century, culminating in the installment of what became at the time the second largest oil refinery plant in the world. Located just 30 kilometers from the coast of Venezuela, Aruba has historically attracted a significant number of immigrants, both as temporary workers and long-term residents. Many foreign nationals, particularly from neighboring countries in the Caribbean and South America, seek job opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector. Additionally, given its geographical location, Aruba serves as a destination for migrants from neighboring islands who may be seeking political stability. The movement of people within the Caribbean region is a notable aspect of migration to and from Aruba.

IOM Aruba Office

The International Organization for Migration (IOM-UN Migration), has maintained an office in Aruba since 2018. Following the Venezuelan migratory crisis,

the Government of Aruba agreed to the establishment of the IOM Aruba office to support the implementation of a special project to address the needs of Venezuelan refugees and migrants. 

Recent Work:

• Opening of the first free clinic for refugees and migrants in Aruba
• First daycare program for single refugee and migrant mothers in Aruba
• Resettlement of Refugees and Migrants
• Technical Cooperation with the National Coordination Center against Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling
• Direct Assistance with access to basic services to vulnerable migrants

Contact Information

International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Dabaruidastraat 11, Ponton, Aruba

Tel:    +297 743 3332

Facebook, TW: @IOMCaribbean