Suriname’s largest labor coalition, Ravaksur Plus, has issued an urgent appeal to President Jennifer Simons for immediate government intervention to address the nation’s deepening socioeconomic crisis. In a comprehensive letter dated February 4th, the coalition detailed multiple systemic failures affecting workers across all sectors and proposed establishing a joint commission to develop actionable solutions.
The coalition identified several critical areas requiring immediate attention. Foremost among these is the absence of a dedicated Ministry of Labor, which has resulted in fragmented labor policies and inadequate enforcement mechanisms. Ravaksur Plus advocates for reinstating this ministry with enhanced authority to strengthen social dialogue and better protect workers’ rights.
Persistent inflation and volatile exchange rates have created a severe purchasing power decline, with cumulative losses affecting all workers. The current minimum wage, poverty threshold, and tax measures no longer reflect economic realities, creating widespread financial hardship. The tax burden on employed individuals particularly hampers economic recovery, prompting calls for adjusting tax-free thresholds and implementing targeted fiscal relief.
Public sector employees face specific challenges including unimplemented wage agreements from 2020, revoked official ranks and periodic benefits, unequal healthcare provisions, and unresolved backlogged promotions and permanent appointments. Multiple government departments, including Regional Development and Social Affairs, reportedly have structurally stalled cases.
Education represents a separate crisis point, with teachers’ incomes becoming insufficient for basic subsistence. This has triggered significant brain drain and staff outflow from the education sector. The coalition demands income restoration measures, clearance of overdue payments, and structural improvements to working conditions.
Private sector workers similarly confront constrained wage growth, high fiscal pressure, and inadequate inflation protection. The minimum wage has become completely disconnected from actual living costs, creating additional financial strain.
Ravaksur Plus additionally called for progress on previously agreed arrangements with the former administration and outstanding benefit packages from affiliated unions, requesting clear timelines and implementation agreements.
The letter was coordinated by Armand Zunder and endorsed by all major education unions including the Federation of Suriname Teachers’ Organizations (FOLS) and its member organizations, the Teachers’ Union (BvL), and the Alliance for Teachers in Suriname (ALS).