Suriname’s National Assembly has unanimously approved significant amendments to the Labor Advisory Council Act, fundamentally restructuring the tenure framework for council members. With all 30 votes in favor, the legislation extends membership terms from two to five years, marking a substantial shift in the country’s labor governance approach.
Parliamentary officials emphasized that the extended tenure period aims to foster greater continuity, institutional stability, and expertise development within the tripartite advisory body. Silvana Afonsoewa, Chair of the Committee of Rapporteurs, articulated during deliberations that prolonged terms would enhance the stability of social dialogue between government, employers, and employee representatives.
The legislative process featured vigorous debate regarding leadership term limits. In response to concerns about unlimited reappointments for leadership positions, legislators eliminated Article 4, Section 8 through an oral amendment. This establishes that the Council’s chair and deputy chair may now serve only two consecutive terms.
Notably, regular members remain eligible for unlimited reappointments, preserving flexibility for labor unions and business associations to select their preferred representatives. Government officials serving ex officio on the Council are also exempt from the new term limitations.
Minister of Health, Welfare and Labor André Misiekaba characterized the reforms as a significant boost to Suriname’s tripartite consultation model. The Labor Advisory Council, which advises the government on labor matters and socioeconomic policy, now operates under strengthened governance provisions that prevent ministers from dismissing its recommendations without formal justification.