Research on family relations, domestic violence, and child abuse in the Dutch Caribbean.

The research's motive stems from the UNICEF situation analysis on the BES from 2019. This analysis portrayed the necessity for information about children, families, and the safety of children within their families. In response to this deficiency, the 2024 report provides the islands with scientifically based data and recommendations suited to sharpen policy. After five years the research will be repeated to provide insight into the extent pursued policy achieved the desired outcome. 

Strengths and challenges of families

Next to the prevailing perspectives about domestic violence and child abuse, inhabitants were asked about what they believe to be valuable aspects of family life in the Dutch Caribbean. Furthermore, what they believe to be the strengths and challenges for families on the islands.  Intergenerational relationships such as parent-child relationships, partner relationships, and the relationship between parents and grandparents in families were also examined. This is because, in the context of the Caribbean community, multiple generations are often involved in raising children.  

 Other aspects included in the research are the financial challenges within families, gender equality, migration, social structural changes, and access to humanitarian aid.  

Conclusions and recommendations

The general results and recommendations of the research are:  

•  There are strong family relationships. This is seen as a great strength within the communities. The recommendation is to involve them in finding solutions because these strong relationships form an important basis.  
• Many families face financial challenges, which have a direct influence on family relationships and the well-being of children. The team advises focusing on financial education and how finances influence family dynamics.   
• There is a growing awareness of the fact that there is no space for violence in families. This, however, hasn't yet been fully accepted. There is a need for a policy that supports parents in nonviolent parenting methods.   
• For gender equality, the team recommends that mothers are acknowledged for their substantial role in parenting and that there is more focus on the role of fathers in parenting. The team recommends breaking down stereotypes surrounding raising boys and girls and ensuring that both parents have an equal role in raising their children.  
• Because of migration and other socio-economic changes, the social structure on the island is changing. Some inhabitants find it difficult to adapt, which can influence the cohesiveness of the communities. This requires attention when formulating policy.    
• There is much healthcare available, however, there are still challenges, like the accessibility of services and it’s confidentiality. It is important to make these services more accessible and more efficient. 

Reports per island and summary 

Click this link to download the report from Bonaire in Dutch, English, and Papiamentu.  

The report from Saba is in Dutch and English.   

The report from Sint Eustatius in Dutch and English.  

The summary of all three islands in Dutch, English, and Papiamentu.  

The research is made possible by the Ministry of Public Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), Care and Youth Caribbean Netherlands. The research adds to UNICEF's programme 'Children in their power. Children's rights in the Dutch Caribbean', a collaboration between UNICEF the Netherlands the Public Entities of Bonaire, Statia, and Saba, and the Ministry of Domestic Affairs and Kingdom Relations.