The Hague, Netherlands — During the week of March 23–27, 2026, the Chairman of SER Sint Maarten, Mr. Harlec Doran, along with Board representatives, and management, visited the Netherlands for a series of meetings. On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Mr. Doran met with the Chairman of the Social Economic Council of the Netherlands, Prof. dr. Kim Putters.
The SERs of the Netherlands and Sint Maarten maintain a strong and longstanding partnership dating back to 2012, working closely together to address complex socio-economic challenges of our time, including labor migration, the energy transition, employment, and connectivity.
On May 1, 2026, SER Sint Maarten will celebrate its 15th anniversary. This milestone will be commemorated during the course of this year. The advisory body is currently in the early stages of preparing its 15th anniversary lecture, scheduled for the month of November 2026. The event will feature a range of speakers, both local and international, and will highlight the development of social dialogue on Sint Maarten, the role of stakeholders represented within the SER, and the power of dialogue. As Chairman Doran highlighted during his visit to the Netherlands, “effective social dialogue is built on mutual respect, trust, and transparency. A particularly important aspect is the willingness of all parties to cooperate and work together constructively, despite any differences”.
As part of its mandate, the advisory body plays an important role in shaping policies that are balanced and inclusive for the people of Sint Maarten. In the months leading up to its 15thanniversary lecture, further details will be shared with the public.