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Articles 1(1) and 2(1) of the Convention. Policies aiming at combating forced or compulsory labour. The Committee previously noted the Government’s statement in its report that the true extent of forced labour in Aruba was not known, which was a major obstacle in developing policies directed explicitly to combat it. The Government also indicated that no progress had been made in promoting collaboration between the Labour Department and the Department of Legislation and Legal Affairs in formulating policies regarding forced labour. In its latest report, the Government reiterates that no progress has been made in this regard. The Committee hopes that the Government will soon be able to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to this end and requests the Government to indicate the progress achieved in its next report.

Article 2(2)(c). Legislation governing prisons services. The Committee notes the adoption of the National Regulations on principles relating to prisons of 13 December 2005. It notes the Government’s indication in the report that these Regulations have not yet come into force. The Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed of the developments.

Article 25. Application of penal sanctions for the illegal exaction of forced or compulsory labour. The Committee previously requested information on practical application of sanctions for the illegal imposition of forced labour, having regard especially to the question of foreign workers. It notes the Government’s indication in its report that no complaints related to forced labour have been submitted to the Labour Department and no legal proceedings have been instituted as a consequence of the illegal exaction of forced or compulsory labour during the reporting period. The Committee hopes that such information will be provided by the Government, as soon as it becomes available, and that it will include information on the penalties imposed, as well as copies of the relevant court decisions.