Artificial Intelligence law at Sint Maarten (Netherlands)

05 May 2025 --
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As of May 2025, Sint Maarten, a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, does not have specific national legislation governing artificial intelligence (AI). The country is not part of the European Union, and therefore, the EU's AI Act does not apply. Instead, AI-related matters are addressed through existing legal frameworks, such as general obligations, product safety regulations, and intellectual property laws.(Lex Mundi)

🇸🇽 Legal Framework for AI in Sint Maarten

Existing Legislation: Sint Maarten relies on general laws, including obligations and product safety regulations, to govern the use of AI systems. Intellectual property laws are also applicable when AI systems are developed or used, especially concerning potential infringements on existing technologies. (Lex Mundi)

Data Protection: While specific AI regulations are absent, general data protection laws may apply to AI systems that process personal data. However, the extent of these laws' applicability to AI remains to be fully clarified.

🚓 AI Initiatives and Discussions

Despite the lack of formal legislation, there have been discussions and initiatives regarding AI in Sint Maarten:

Law Enforcement: The Chief of Police has advocated for the use of AI in policing, emphasizing the potential benefits of big data analytics, facial recognition, and predictive policing. A study by Deloitte suggests that AI could reduce crime by 30–40% and emergency response times by 20–35%. (The Daily Herald)

Digital Transformation: The government is advancing its digital transformation under the Digital Government Transformation Project, which includes initiatives like digital identity platforms and cybersecurity training. While not AI-specific, these efforts may lay the groundwork for future AI integration. (Government of Sint Maarten)

🌐 Regional and International Context

Sint Maarten is part of the Caribbean region, where AI governance is evolving:

UNESCO's Caribbean AI Policy Roadmap: This framework encourages Caribbean nations to develop AI policies focusing on culture, governance, education, and sustainability. While not legally binding, it serves as a guide for regional collaboration and policy development. (UNESCO, UNESCO)

Mutual Regulation with the Netherlands: Sint Maarten has agreed with Aruba, Curaçao, and the Netherlands to a Mutual Regulation for cooperation on public sector reforms. While AI is not explicitly mentioned, this agreement may influence future AI-related reforms. (Government of Sint Maarten, english.vnacs.nl)

✅ Summary

Aspect

Status in Sint Maarten

AI-Specific Legislation

❌ Not yet enacted

Data Protection Laws

⚠️ Applicable in general; AI-specific application unclear

AI Oversight Authority

❌ None specified

Regional AI Policy Framework

✅ UNESCO's Caribbean AI Policy Roadmap

AI Initiatives