Tackling officially launched the Detention Sector Reform Program

GREAT BAY--The Ministry of Justice has officially launched the Detention Sector Reform Program (DSRP) a national initiative designed to modernize and transform St. Maarten’s entire detention system, from pre-trial processes to post-release reintegration. The program represents a major step toward building a safe, humane, and sustainable correctional system grounded in dignity, accountability, and fairness.

Led by the Ministry of Justice on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten, the DSRP is supported by the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK) and the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB), and implemented in collaboration with two United Nations agencies—the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Minister of Justice Nathalie M. Tackling described the launch as a historic turning point for Sint Maarten’s justice system.

“After 35 years, our detention facility has outlived its purpose. The DSRP is about more than constructing a new building—it’s about creating a fairer, more humane justice system. How we treat people in detention reflects who we are as a society,” said Minister Tackling. “By investing in rehabilitation and reintegration, we give individuals a real chance to return to society with skills, confidence, and purpose. At the same time, we are providing our correctional staff with the tools, training, and safe working environment they deserve. This reform shows that Sint Maarten’s justice is built on fairness and human dignity.”

As part of the DSRP, UNOPS has provided technical expertise for the design of the new facility and will lead the construction of the new Point Blanche Prison—a modern, resilient, and sustainable correctional complex that meets the highest international standards. The facility will double current capacity and include dedicated spaces for education, healthcare, mental health, vocational training, family visitation, and recreation—embodying a holistic, human-centered approach to rehabilitation.

“At UNOPS, we are proud to lead the construction component of the Detention Sector Reform Program,” said Giuseppe Mancinelli, UNOPS Deputy Director for Latin America and the Caribbean. “The new Point Blanche facility will be a modern correctional complex that promotes safety, dignity, and opportunities for rehabilitation—key pillars of peaceful and inclusive societies. Our approach ensures resilient, sustainable infrastructure, efficient use of public resources, and strengthened governance and transparency.”

The infrastructure project is jointly financed by the Government of Sint Maarten and BZK, with a total investment of USD 52 million. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and will take approximately three years to complete. eanwhile, UNODC will support the Ministry in enhancing prison management, staff training, and rehabilitation programs. Working alongside local personnel, UNODC’s technical team is helping strengthen leadership, modernize operational systems, and expand reintegration initiatives that reduce reoffending and promote community safety.

“This initiative offers a vital opportunity to build a stronger, fairer, and more accountable justice system in Sint Maarten,” said Rafael Barreto Souza, Programme Officer at UNODC. “By focusing on the people who work in prisons as well as those in their care, the DSRP will enhance rehabilitation efforts, support reintegration after release, and contribute to a safer community. We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Justice and the people of Sint Maarten to make this vision a reality.”

The DSRP reflects Sint Maarten’s firm commitment to justice reform through national leadership, international collaboration, and shared responsibility. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), the program places transparency, accountability, and human dignity at the center of detention management.

“This is Sint Maarten’s reform—led by our Ministry, for our people,” said Minister Tackling. “We are building a detention system that strengthens our institutions, protects our citizens, and restores public confidence in justice.”

Through the Detention Sector Reform Program, the Ministry of Justice and its partners are setting a new standard for humane, accountable, and sustainable justice in Sint Maarten.

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