The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Strengthening the rule of law in Sint Maarten
Together with the government of Sint Maarten and the government of the Netherlands, UNOPS will build a new correctional facility designed with a focus on climate resilience and human rights.
Sint Maarten is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. It has been heavily impacted by hurricanes and extreme weather events in recent years – damaging critical infrastructure on the small island country.
The current Pointe Blanche prison, already challenged with overcrowding, aging infrastructure and structural damages, is no longer fit for purpose.
With $52 million in funding from the government of Sint Maarten and the Dutch Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations, UNOPS will build a new facility – strengthening the justice system in the country and improving the well being of detainees, prisoners and prison staff.
The design of the facility includes essential infrastructure to ensure a safe and dignified environment for both inmates and prison staff.
"It is more than just constructing a building – it's about investing in the future of our country’s safety, justice, and our people. (...) A new facility is not just necessary; it is a clear statement of our commitment to uphold the rule of law and provide the best conditions for rehabilitation and justice," said Dr. Luc Mercelina, Prime Minister of Sint Maarten.
The work will meet the highest international standards to build a facility that is more sustainable and resilient. The new facility will promote the dignified treatment of prisoners and provide health, educational and recreational facilities to support rehabilitation. Human rights, gender and environmental considerations will also be incorporated throughout the project implementation.
"The robust program of requirements formulated by UNOPS guarantees that the construction will meet the necessary standards. It will comply with the specific needs within the local context of Sint Maarten, as well as human rights standards required in the Kingdom of the Netherlands," said Zsolt Szabó, State Secretary for Digitalization and Kingdom Relations of the government of the Netherlands.
“The project will be managed under the principles of fair and equitable public management, ensuring a purposeful use of public resources through the implementation of practices that enhance efficiency, sustainable value and transparency,” added Giuseppe Mancinelli.
Through this initiative, UNOPS is committed to supporting Sint Maarten’s efforts to build resilience to climate change, strengthen the rule of law, and advance progress towards the 2030 Agenda.
