Natalee Holloway: A Case That Captivated The Nation

Aruba Speaks Out

Natalee’s disappearance gained so much bad publicity for the island that public officials were forced to comment on the situation. Prime Minister Oduber said that authorities had done their best and spoke against the boycott saying, “This is a preposterous and irresponsible act. We are not guerrillas. We are not terrorists. We don’t pose a threat to the United States, nor to Alabama.”

The Aruba Strategic Communications Task Force was formed in order to respond to negative portrayals of the island. The group, which consisted of members of the Aruba Tourism Authority, the Aruban Chamber of Commerce, the Aruba Hospitality and Security Foundation, and the Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association opposed the calls for a boycott.