Philipsburg, Sint Maarten: The Labor Relations Team of the Division of Labor Affairs and Social Services will host its first-ever Labor Relations Panel Discussion in 2025 titled “Shaping Labor Relations in Sint Maarten; introducing the role and responsibilities of key stakeholders". The event aims to strengthen dialogue between workers, employers, and key stakeholders on pressing labor issues in Sint Maarten.
Labor relations as defined by the ILO is about how employers and workers cooperate, negotiate, and resolve conflicts both at the workplace and at national levels – with the goal of ensuring fair treatment, productivity, and societal peace.
Labor Relations encapsulates:
· Collective bargaining
· Social Dialogue
· Dispute Prevention and Resolution
· Representation and Participation
The island's growth, tourism driven economy and small labor market means that strong relationships between labor employers and government are essential for stability and economic growth. Continued discussions on labor reform, especially considering the country packages, social dialogue and workforce protection, highlight the shared goal of a fair and transparent labor system that balances rights, responsibilities, and resilience.
This panel discussion will help identify how the roles intersect, where collaboration can be strengthened and how each stakeholder contributes to fair, effective and forward-looking labor relations on the island.
The panel will introduce key organizations and professionals shaping labor relations. Highlight roles and responsibilities in fostering fair and balanced workplaces. Promote improved communication and collaboration between institutions, unions, employers, and employees. Build awareness of labor rights and obligations. Encourage stakeholders to strengthen labor relations.
Program Themes
The panel, theme “Shaping Labor Relations in Sint Maarten: Introducing the Role and Responsibilities of Key Stakeholders," will focus on:
· Strategies to resolve workplace conflict and improve communication.
· Promoting inclusion, equity and addressing the challenges faced by marginalized groups
· Ensuring safe and secure working conditions, job security and understanding the role of government regulation.
Theme focused questions can be submitted by October 24th, 2025.
Panelists: Ms. Peggy-Ann Dros-Richardson, Ms. Sharon Cangieter, Mr. Andrew Budike, Ms. Krystal Wanga, and Ms. Eunelda Cairo LL.M.
This important event is scheduled to take place on:
Date: October 30th, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Venue: Conference Room 1 & 2, Government Administration Building
RSVP by: 25th October 2025 Tel: +1721-523-3671 or email labor.relations@sintmaartengov.org
https://www.sintmaartengov.org/news/Pages/Division-of-Labor-Affairs-and-Social-Services-to-Host-First-Ever-Labor-Relations-Panel-Discussion-in-Sint-Maarten.aspx
