In a significant political statement marking International Women’s Day, Suriname’s National Democratic Party (NDP) has issued a powerful declaration celebrating women’s pivotal role in national development and governance. The party emphasized its longstanding commitment to advancing women’s rights, particularly highlighting its instrumental role in eliminating legal barriers through the landmark Decree 11C, which abolished women’s legal incapacity.
The NDP pointed to its current leadership as embodiment of this vision, noting that ‘the ship of state is steered by a strong woman: our chairperson Jennifer Geerlings-Simons.’ The party characterized her leadership as representing stability, balance, and determination during a period requiring steadfastness, courage, and moral guidance.
Beyond political representation, the statement acknowledged women’s multifaceted contributions across all societal sectors—as mothers, educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, civil servants, agricultural workers, and volunteers. The NDP articulated its foundational belief that women should not stand behind others but rather lead independently across ministries, corporations, directorates, and critical institutions.
While asserting that women’s achievements are valued daily, the party designated March 8th as a particularly significant occasion to reflect on hard-won rights, societal contributions, and the continuing role of women in national advancement. The statement serves as both a celebration of progress and a reaffirmation of the party’s commitment to gender equality in Surinamese society.