Human Rights on the Clock: St. Martin’s Ongoing Commitment to European Court Oversight
Strasbourg and Human Rights: Minister Tackling Defends St. Martin’s Justice Reforms
A System of Scrutiny That Doesn’t Let Up
One of the most critical — and least understood — parts of Minister Nathalie Tackling’s recent Strasbourg mission is what happens after a human rights judgment. The 2018 Corallo case placed the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and by extension St. Martin, under what’s known as an enhanced follow-up procedure by the Council of Europe.
This process is no mere formality. It requires written updates every three to six months, followed by periodic hearings before the Committee of Ministers, which represents all 46 member states of the Council of Europe.
That clock is still ticking — and Justice Minister Tackling made it clear that St. Martin is not standing still.
Showing Up in Person Makes a Difference
The June 2025 session in Strasbourg marked the first time St. Martin’s Minister of Justice appeared in person since the Corallo case. Tackling’s presence was not just symbolic — it gave weight to her words. It signaled a level of ownership and seriousness that the Council of Europe had not previously seen from the Dutch Caribbean.
Her presence helped change perceptions. Council officials and diplomats took notice. Some even expressed how refreshing it was to finally meet a minister who shows up, listens, and responds in real time.
“Showing up in person tells them we’re not dodging responsibility — we’re here to do the work,” Tackling explained.
Compliance Fatigue Is Real — But Unacceptable
Minister Tackling also acknowledged something crucial: the burden of constant reporting wears on a small country. It can strain resources, especially when justice ministries also have to manage everyday domestic issues.
But she made it clear: compliance fatigue is no excuse for noncompliance. The people of St. Martin deserve detention conditions and legal protections that meet international standards. If anything, the urgency should grow over time — not diminish.
Staying the Course, No Matter the Pressure
There are no shortcuts in human rights reform. With every update and every inspection, St. Martin must demonstrate that it’s not only aware of the European Court’s rulings — it’s taking action.
“This is not about checking boxes,” Tackling stressed. “This is about transforming a system — for good.”
The follow-up process will continue. So will Minister Tackling’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and real structural change.
The New Prison Project and UN Collaboration: A Path Toward Sustainable Justice Reform.