Carib Scope

标签： Suriname

苏里南

  • VSB bespreekt toenemende criminaliteit met minister Monorath

    VSB bespreekt toenemende criminaliteit met minister Monorath

    Business representatives from the Suriname Trade and Industry Association (VSB) have held urgent consultations with Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath to address the country’s worsening security crisis. The meeting was prompted by alarming reports from VSB members indicating a sharp increase in violent robberies targeting retailers, distribution companies, and other high-risk enterprises.

    During the high-level discussions, VSB officials emphasized that armed robberies and violent incidents are causing substantial financial losses while simultaneously undermining Suriname’s investment climate and threatening employment stability. According to the association’s bulletin Nieuwslijn, both business owners and employees increasingly feel unsafe while conducting their professional activities.

    The business association advocated for immediate, tangible security measures within a clear legal framework to enable better protection of personnel and commercial operations. VSB leadership stressed the critical importance of establishing structured collaboration between the Justice Ministry, security services, and private sector entities. Proposed solutions included developing joint action plans for specific districts and enhancing information sharing mechanisms.

    Minister Monorath acknowledged the necessity of business community participation in combating criminal activities. Both parties expressed commitment to intensifying their dialogue and developing a coordinated strategy to reduce crime rates and enhance security measures for businesses and society overall. They agreed to continue discussions in the immediate future to formalize this collaborative approach.

  • Trumps grillige handelspolitiek drijft Amerikaanse bondgenoten naar China

    Trumps grillige handelspolitiek drijft Amerikaanse bondgenoten naar China

    In a significant departure from US trade policy, Canada has strategically reduced import tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in exchange for improved market access for its agricultural exports, particularly canola. This move represents Canada’s latest effort to diversify economic partnerships amid growing concerns over the unpredictable and confrontational trade approach of the Trump administration.

    Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government announced the tariff reduction, which lowers the previous 100% duty on Chinese EVs, as part of a broader bilateral agreement with China. The arrangement includes quota limitations, capping Chinese EV imports under the reduced tariff at approximately 49,000 vehicles initially, with gradual increases to around 70,000 over a five-year period.

    The decision reflects Canada’s calculated response to what trade experts identify as increasingly volatile US trade relations under President Trump. Since taking office, Trump has overturned seven decades of US trade policy favoring freer commerce, imposing substantial tariffs on imports from virtually every trading nation while specifically targeting sectors including steel and automobiles.

    Canada has frequently been subject to Trump’s trade threats, including an October announcement of planned tariff increases on Canadian imports—retaliation for a critical advertisement from Ontario province—though these were ultimately not implemented. Existing tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum remain in effect.

    This strategic shift carries considerable political risk for Carney, potentially creating friction with the Trump administration ahead of crucial negotiations to renew the USMCA trade agreement with the United States and Mexico. The trilateral pact remains vital to Canadian economic interests, with 75% of Canadian exports destined for US markets.

    Carney has defended the arrangement by emphasizing China’s technological advantages in electric vehicle production and the necessity of international cooperation to develop a competitive Canadian EV sector. However, critics including Ontario’s premier have raised concerns about potential impacts on Canadian auto workers and warned that the agreement could provide China with excessive market influence.

    The development occurs alongside similar diversification efforts by other US trading partners. The European Union has pursued new trade agreements with Mercosur nations, while China has successfully expanded export markets across Europe and Southeast Asia—achieving a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025 despite US tariffs.

    Trump maintains that his tariff policies strengthen US treasury reserves, protect domestic industries, and attract investment. However, his application of tariffs has frequently appeared arbitrary and unpredictable, including recent threats against Brazil over its treatment of political ally Jair Bolsonaro and new tariffs targeting countries that declined to support US interests regarding Greenland.

    Canada’s economic repositioning demonstrates how Trump’s trade policies are reshaping traditional alliance dynamics, driving US partners toward strengthened economic ties with China—America’s primary economic competitor—while complicating future negotiations on critical agreements like USMCA.

  • 40e viering Wereld Religie Dag

    40e viering Wereld Religie Dag

    Suriname commemorated a significant milestone on Sunday, January 18th, celebrating the 40th anniversary of World Religion Day—four decades of sustained interreligious dialogue, cooperation, and community engagement. Organized by the Suriname World Religion Day Foundation, this year’s event embraced the theme ‘Together We Form the Whole – Wi Na Wan,’ emphasizing that every religious tradition and citizen constitutes an essential component of Surinamese society.

    The gathering took place at the Arya Dewaker Multipurpose Hall in Paramaribo, attracting representatives from diverse faith communities, non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, and government officials. Multiple speakers addressed the audience, exploring the theme from various religious perspectives with the shared objective of highlighting common values and strengthening national unity.

    World Religion Day, established in 1986, has evolved into a global initiative promoting religious harmony and mutual understanding. In Suriname—a nation renowned for its rich religious and cultural diversity—the observance holds particular significance as a symbol of peaceful coexistence amid differences.

    This 40th edition underscores the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue, respect, and collaboration across religious boundaries. The organization extended an open invitation for collective reflection on the unifying values that define Suriname, further solidifying the country’s exemplary role in regional religious harmony.

  • EU en Mercosur tekenen handelsakkoord na 25 jaar onderhandelingen

    EU en Mercosur tekenen handelsakkoord na 25 jaar onderhandelingen

    In a landmark development for global trade, European Union and Mercosur bloc officials finalized a comprehensive free trade agreement on Saturday in Paraguay, concluding negotiations spanning more than a quarter-century. This monumental pact represents the most extensive trade deal ever negotiated by the EU, though it still requires ratification by the European Parliament and national legislatures of Mercosur member nations Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

    The agreement aims to dismantle longstanding trade barriers between the economic blocs, promising unprecedented opportunities for cross-continental commerce and investment. However, the accord faces significant opposition within Europe due to environmental concerns, agricultural competition worries, and labor rights considerations.

    Simultaneously, international tensions escalated as U.S. President Donald Trump intensified his campaign to acquire Greenland, announcing substantial tariff increases on eight European nations via his Truth Social platform. Effective February 1st, a 10% tariff will be imposed on goods from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, with plans to increase to 25% by June 1st. Trump declared these punitive measures would remain until the United States secures an agreement for Greenland’s purchase.

    European governments have yet to formally respond to these economic threats, while thousands of Danish citizens took to the streets in protest. Copenhagen witnessed demonstrators waving national and city flags while chanting “Kalaallit Nunaat” – Greenland’s indigenous name – in rejection of American expansionism.

    These public demonstrations occurred shortly after a bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation reaffirmed American support for Denmark and Greenland during meetings in Copenhagen. Senator Chris Coons expressed hope that Denmark would maintain confidence in the American people while emphasizing respect for Danish sovereignty and NATO alliances.

    Since taking office, President Trump has repeatedly asserted that Greenland should fall under American control, recently declaring any alternative outcome “unacceptable.” This stance contradicts overwhelming Greenlandic public opinion, with a January poll revealing 85% opposition to U.S. annexation and only 6% in favor.

    Both Greenlandic and Danish authorities have consistently rejected American ownership proposals, with recent diplomatic efforts by foreign ministers from both governments failing to alter the U.S. position during Washington meetings. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen characterized Trump’s approach as attempting to “conquer” Greenland rather than negotiate.

    These parallel developments highlight the intricate interplay between trade diplomacy and geopolitical ambitions in contemporary international relations, where economic agreements and territorial aspirations create complex global dynamics.

  • SEOB waarschuwt: economische stabiliteit kwetsbaar ondanks sterke reserves

    SEOB waarschuwt: economische stabiliteit kwetsbaar ondanks sterke reserves

    Suriname faces a complex economic landscape characterized by contrasting strengths and vulnerabilities, according to the latest assessment from the Suriname Economic Oversight Board (SEOB). While the nation maintains robust international reserves reaching $1.6 billion—providing approximately 7.5 months of import coverage—this financial buffer exists alongside concerning macroeconomic challenges that threaten long-term stability.

    The economy demonstrated concerning stagnation in June 2025, with the Monthly Economic Activity Index showing zero growth. This performance primarily resulted from a sharp contraction in gold production and exports, affecting both large-scale and small-scale mining operations. Reduced processing capacity and inferior ore quality contributed to the sector’s decline, which overshadowed positive developments in trade, insurance, hospitality, and restaurant services.

    Inflation continues to present significant headwinds, reaching 11.9% year-over-year in October 2025. Concurrently, the Surinamese dollar depreciated by 0.5% against the US dollar and 0.4% against the euro during the same period, further escalating import costs and diminishing purchasing power for citizens.

    Most alarmingly, government debt has surged to 88.8% of GDP, substantially exceeding the statutory benchmark of 60%. To address immediate liquidity constraints, authorities issued international bonds worth $1.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025, carrying interest rates between 8.0% and 8.5%. This debt management strategy extends maturities on existing obligations and postpones principal repayments until after 2028, when oil revenues are anticipated to materialize.

    The SEOB warns that this approach carries substantial risks. The economy remains highly susceptible to fluctuations in oil and gold prices, inflationary pressures, and exchange rate volatility. Additionally, the absence of a fully operational Savings and Stabilization Fund increases vulnerability to potential Dutch Disease effects, where future oil revenues could inadvertently crowd out other critical sectors including agriculture and manufacturing.

    Transparency concerns have emerged regarding the allocation of the newly acquired debt, with no detailed expenditure plan presented to stakeholders. The oversight board emphasizes that clear communication regarding interest and repayment obligations is essential for maintaining confidence among both citizens and international investors.

    The SEOB recommends implementing strict fiscal discipline, enhancing anti-corruption mechanisms, and operationalizing crucial institutions including the Savings and Stabilization Fund. Additionally, the board advocates for a comprehensive five-year government financial plan featuring expenditure ceilings and debt sustainability targets.

    Economic diversification beyond extractive industries represents another critical recommendation, with emphasis on developing agriculture, fisheries, agro-processing, services, and eco-tourism sectors to foster sustainable growth and export diversification. Only through consistent policy implementation, transparency, and institutional strengthening can Suriname responsibly leverage anticipated oil revenues and secure lasting economic stability.

  • 87 cursisten behalen SAO-certificaat na afronding vaktrainingen

    87 cursisten behalen SAO-certificaat na afronding vaktrainingen

    PARAMARIBO – In a significant demonstration of personal initiative and educational commitment, 87 students received vocational certification on January 15, 2026, after successfully completing self-financed training programs. The ceremony, organized by the Foundation for Labor Mobilization and Development (SAO), highlighted courses in Basic Refrigeration Technology, Electrical House Installation, Water Sanitation (GaWaSa), and Printed Circuit Board Repair.

    The graduation event witnessed notable attendance from Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor Raj Jadnanansing, SAO Director Joyce Lapar, and Izaak Hill, representing the Board of Directors. Originally commencing with 103 participants, the program achieved an impressive 84% completion rate, with all graduates personally covering their training expenses without corporate sponsorship.

    Deputy Minister Jadnanansing praised the graduates’ perseverance and conscious investment in their professional capabilities. He emphasized Suriname’s impending need for skilled labor, particularly driven by expansion in the oil and gas sectors. “Suriname must prepare proactively to prevent future labor market shortages,” he stated, advocating for a shift in perception regarding vocational trainees—from ‘drop-outs’ to ‘drop-ins’ who strategically choose alternative educational pathways.

    SAO Director Lapar highlighted the distinctive character of this cohort, noting the participation of motivated youth, including two 16-year-olds, as a strong indicator of responsibility and forward-thinking. She underscored the necessity of lifelong learning in adapting to rapidly evolving job markets.

    Board representative Hill echoed these sentiments, urging graduates to embrace entrepreneurial thinking and collaborative ventures. All speakers emphasized the critical importance of applying acquired skills to foster confidence and sustainable career growth.

    The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting funded, subsidized, and partially subsidized vocational training, aligning with broader strategies to enhance workforce readiness and economic resilience.

  • Bangladesh: Journalisten eisen bescherming na toenemende aanvallen op media

    Bangladesh: Journalisten eisen bescherming na toenemende aanvallen op media

    In a troubling escalation of press freedom violations, Bangladesh’s media professionals have united to demand immediate government protection following coordinated attacks on the country’s leading newspapers. The alarming developments have raised serious concerns about democratic backsliding under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus’s interim administration.

    December witnessed violent mobs storming the offices of Dhaka-based Daily Star, the nation’s premier English-language daily, and Prothom Alo, the largest Bengali-language publication. Assailants set buildings ablaze, trapped journalists inside, and looted property while state authorities allegedly failed to respond to repeated distress calls. Staff members at Daily Star required rooftop rescues after being besieged by attackers, while a leader of the independent Editors Council suffered physical assault.

    The same day saw parallel attacks on liberal cultural centers in the capital, with Islamic groups previously accusing targeted media outlets of pro-India bias. Although motives remain officially unconfirmed, the pattern suggests systematic targeting of independent institutions.

    During an emergency conference convened by the Editors Council and Newspapers Owners Association of Bangladesh, media representatives highlighted the particularly precarious environment ahead of February elections. Nurul Kabir, Council chairman, warned that silencing media and democratic institutions reflects a dangerous trend requiring unified journalistic resistance.

    The United Nations has expressed profound concern, with expert Irene Khan labeling the mobilization of public fury against journalists and artists as ‘dangerously destabilizing’ in the pre-electoral period. Khan cautioned that such intimidation could paralyze media freedom, minority voices, and dissenting opinions, ultimately undermining democratic foundations.

    Yunus’s interim government assumed power in August 2024 after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled during mass uprisings. Despite initial stability promises, international human rights organizations now criticize the administration for eroding civil liberties and enabling radical groups’ resurgence.

    Notably, several journalists face murder-related charges for allegedly encouraging Hasina’s government to suppress protesters, while pro-Hasina reporters have been imprisoned under the current regime. These developments collectively paint a disturbing picture of deteriorating press freedom and democratic norms in Bangladesh, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and protective measures for independent media.

  • Koninklijke onderscheiding voor Jac Rinkes, ook van grote betekenis voor Suriname

    Koninklijke onderscheiding voor Jac Rinkes, ook van grote betekenis voor Suriname

    In a ceremonious event held on Friday, Professor Jac Rinkes was formally decorated as Officer in the Order of Orange-Nassau, marking the celebration of his professional retirement. This prestigious royal distinction serves as recognition for his extensive and multifaceted contributions to legal scholarship and societal development spanning several decades.

    Mayor Roel Wever of Heerlen presided over the ceremonial pinning of the honor, which acknowledges Professor Rinkes’ exceptional career in legal education and research. His academic journey includes significant tenure at Maastricht University from 1985 to 2014, where he served as Special Professor of European Consumer Law. Since 2001, he has held the position of Professor of Private Law at the Open University of the Netherlands, and since 2013, Professor of European and Comparative Insurance Law at the University of Amsterdam.

    Professor Rinkes emerged as a pioneering force in consumer protection law beginning in the 1990s. He played an instrumental role in establishing the Journal of Consumer Law, serving for many years as its editorial secretary and transforming the publication into a leading platform within the legal field. His foundational contributions extended to the creation of the Netherlands Journal of Commercial Law as well.

    At the Open University, Professor Rinkes demonstrated transformative leadership by developing and professionalizing research capabilities. He established a private law research group that evolved into a nationally and internationally recognized research center, chairing this department from 2001 to 2023. Notably, he consistently redirected substantial portions of his additional income and research funding back to support the research group, while vigorously advocating for colleagues and staff members.

    Beyond Dutch borders, Professor Rinkes maintained particularly strong academic ties with Suriname. Through his work with organization Satya Dharma, he previously received the SURO badge from the Surinamese embassy in The Hague for strengthening bilateral relations between Suriname and the Netherlands. The late President Desi Bouterse appointed him as Knight in the Honorary Order of the Yellow Star in recognition of his active engagement with legal research in Suriname.

    His Surinamese initiatives included delivering lectures, supervising doctoral candidates, and encouraging faculty to pursue PhD programs. As research promoter and advisor, he contributed significantly to addressing Suriname’s inheritance issues, providing directional solutions to this deeply rooted societal problem. He also participated in dissertation committees examining corruption and anti-corruption measures in Suriname.

    Throughout his career, Professor Rinkes supervised approximately 18 doctoral candidates while supporting numerous Surinamese students with their bachelor’s and master’s theses. His guidance extended to supporting Chequita Ramautar’s doctoral research on Surinamese inheritance matters from the Netherlands.

    Ramon Ramsodit of Satya Dharma emphasized that this royal honor not only celebrates Professor Rinkes’ academic career but also acknowledges his enduring significance for legal development and knowledge exchange between the Netherlands and Suriname.

  • Regering spreekt medeleven uit na dodelijk verkeersongeval

    Regering spreekt medeleven uit na dodelijk verkeersongeval

    The national government has issued an official statement expressing profound sorrow following a devastating traffic accident that occurred at the intersection of Johannes Mungstraat and Veldhuizenlaan during morning hours. The catastrophic collision between a passenger vehicle and a public transport bus resulted in multiple fatalities and left numerous individuals with serious injuries.

    In an emotional address, government representatives extended heartfelt condolences to bereaved families and loved ones affected by this tragedy, offering strength and support during this profoundly difficult period. Officials additionally expressed sincere hopes for the swift and complete recovery of all injured parties.

    The administration publicly commended emergency response teams and all involved personnel for their rapid, professional, and efficient on-site intervention. Their coordinated efforts in providing immediate assistance and managing the crisis scenario received particular recognition from authorities.

    Reiterating the critical importance of road safety awareness, the government emphasized that traffic safety represents a shared societal responsibility. All motorists and road users received an urgent appeal to maintain constant vigilance, exercise responsible driving behavior, and demonstrate extreme caution at all times. The statement specifically highlighted the necessity of strict adherence to established traffic regulations and safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

  • VES-secretaris Girdhari: Jaarrede president schetst richting, maar mist concrete uitwerking

    VES-secretaris Girdhari: Jaarrede president schetst richting, maar mist concrete uitwerking

    Suriname’s economic trajectory for 2025-2030, as outlined in President Jennifer Simons’ New Year address to the Association of Economists in Suriname (VES), presents both ambitious frameworks and substantial implementation concerns according to VES Secretary Swami Girdhari. While acknowledging the macroeconomic consistency of the presidential vision, which appropriately emphasized the crucial interconnection between fiscal policy, monetary measures, and structural reforms, Girdhari highlighted significant gaps in practical execution details.

    The address, delivered during a 45-minute presentation, successfully established broad policy contours but fell short in translating abstract concepts—including discipline, institutional strengthening, transparency, and good governance—into measurable policy choices, clear priorities, and concrete timelines. Girdhari noted that while time constraints might explain some omissions, society rightfully expects the government to provide specific operational details in the near future.

    A primary concern centers on governmental implementation capacity. Many proposed policies echo previous administrations’ declarations, raising questions about Suriname’s institutional and human resource capabilities to actualize these plans. The VES supports the president’s stance that export-earned foreign exchange must serve the national economy through full repatriation, emphasizing that production enhancement and revenue generation capacity remain fundamental requirements.

    Although tourism and agricultural sectors were correctly identified as key economic drivers, Girdhari observed that seven months into the administration, policy execution remains disappointing with no coherent, consistent strategy yet visible. Corruption prevention also received insufficient attention according to the VES, with merely two brief mentions in the speech contrasting sharply with daily reports about potential corruption cases from the previous administration involving LVV, Grassalco, EBS, Brownsberg, timber exports, gold smuggling, and land distribution.

    Additional criticism targeted the government’s personnel management approach, where dismissing officials without proven misconduct—often while maintaining their salaries—results in financial waste and human capital underutilization. Girdhari urged creative deployment of available expertise for national development.

    Regarding anticipated oil and gas revenues, the VES acknowledges the president’s correct emphasis on preparation but questions whether Suriname’s political and institutional systems possess sufficient robustness to maintain this course long-term. Ultimately, the association stresses that the president’s central promise of systemic transformation (“Kenki a Systeem”) must begin showing visible contours through tangible actions, noting that recent months’ developments haven’t yet aligned with this commitment.