Carib Scope

标签： Suriname

苏里南

  • Werkgroep moet koers uitzetten voor grondenrechten en decentralisatiebeleid

    Werkgroep moet koers uitzetten voor grondenrechten en decentralisatiebeleid

    President Jennifer Simons of Suriname has established a specialized six-member working group to tackle the nation’s complex and long-standing challenges regarding land rights and decentralization policies. The presidential initiative aims to develop sustainable solutions through comprehensive inventory assessments and policy proposals developed in close consultation with indigenous and tribal communities.

    The task force, serving as direct operational arm of the head of state, includes presidential advisor on land rights and decentralization Edgar Dikan, along with members Armand Jurel, Theresia Cirino, Mike Nerkust, Martin Misiedjan, and Sarwan Ramai. Their mandate encompasses systematic mapping of legal, administrative, and societal aspects relevant to land rights issues, while considering existing documentation including the FPIC document from the Association of Indigenous Village Chiefs in Suriname.

    Presidential spokesperson Roberto Lindveld emphasized the administration’s dual awareness of both the necessity for resolution and the complexity requiring careful, time-consuming processes. Monthly progress meetings will be held with the president to meticulously monitor the initiative’s advancement.

    The working group’s methodology will focus on three core pillars: comprehensive inventory, thorough evaluation, and extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders. This approach aims to build consensus and ownership for future policy decisions. Dikan stressed that collaboration with affected communities remains fundamental to the mission’s success, noting that only through joint efforts can tangible progress be achieved and visible results demonstrated in the coming years.

  • Venezuela stapelt olievoorraden op in eigen wateren door Amerikaanse blokkade

    Venezuela stapelt olievoorraden op in eigen wateren door Amerikaanse blokkade

    Venezuela’s state-owned oil company PDVSA has initiated an emergency strategy of using tankers as floating storage units in its territorial waters following a series of crude oil seizures by United States authorities. According to internal company documents and shipping data, this unprecedented measure comes as direct response to US Coast Guard interceptions of Venezuelan oil shipments in the Caribbean Sea.

    This month witnessed the seizure of two fully-loaded crude carriers, the Skipper and Centuries, with a third empty vessel currently being monitored approaching Venezuelan waters. These developments are part of Washington’s intensified enforcement actions against what it terms a ‘shadow fleet’ transporting sanctioned oil. Former President Donald Trump’s administration had announced a comprehensive blockade against all vessels falling under US sanctions, creating significant deterrence among shipowners and leaving more than a dozen oil tankers stranded within Venezuelan maritime boundaries.

    With PDVSA maintaining daily production of approximately 1.1 million barrels, storage facilities on land are rapidly approaching capacity—particularly at the Jose terminal which handles heavy crude from the Orinoco belt, Venezuela’s primary oil-producing region. To avoid production cuts, the company began emergency transfer operations over the weekend, pumping surplus oil onto vessels now serving as temporary storage solutions.

    Interestingly, Chevron—PDVSA’s joint venture partner—has maintained uninterrupted export operations despite the escalating situation. The US oil major continues to produce roughly one quarter of Orinoco basin output, while PDVSA handles the remaining three quarters, primarily destined for Chinese markets. China has emerged as the destination for approximately 80% of Venezuela’s oil exports this year.

    Storage levels at the Jose terminal had previously declined from a peak of 14 million barrels earlier this year to between 9-11 million barrels since September. Current figures show inventories have rebounded to 12.6 million barrels, bringing Venezuela’s total oil stockpile to 22 million barrels—the highest level since August.

    PDVSA faces mounting challenges in convincing customers to continue accepting deliveries after this weekend’s additional US seizures. The floating storage solution has become necessary while the company negotiates price reductions and contract modifications with reluctant buyers, some of whom are considering returning shipments to Venezuelan terminals.

    Last week, PDVSA contemplated declaring force majeure for certain exports but ultimately decided against the measure to avoid disrupting ongoing client negotiations. The legal concept of force majeure would allow the seller to be released from delivery obligations under extraordinary circumstances.

    In a televised address, President Nicolás Maduro emphasized that oil exports to Chevron would continue ‘rain, thunder or lightning’ despite pressure from Washington. ‘We are serious and honest people who honor our contracts,’ Maduro declared. Chevron confirmed its Venezuelan operations continue unchanged and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

    In a significant legislative development, Venezuela’s Maduro-controlled parliament passed a law imposing prison sentences of up to 20 years for anyone promoting or financing piracy or blockades of oil exports, signaling Caracas’s determination to counter US sanctions through legal means.

  • Prijzen blijven stijgen: inflatie in november 2025 op 11,6 procent

    Prijzen blijven stijgen: inflatie in november 2025 op 11,6 procent

    Suriname’s economy continues to grapple with persistent inflationary pressures, as recent data from the General Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveals a 0.8% month-over-month price increase in November 2025. The year-on-year comparison shows even more striking figures, with consumer prices surging by 11.6% compared to November 2024 levels.

    While the pace of inflation has moderated compared to previous years, the upward trajectory remains unmistakable. The sustained price pressure continues to burden households, particularly affecting essential expenditure categories. Behind the average inflation rate lies significant variation across product categories, with individual items experiencing price fluctuations ranging from a 54% decrease to an astonishing 600% increase in November alone.

    Over the extended period from December 2023 through November 2025, these disparities widened further, spanning from -67% to +600%. The most substantial price hikes continue to manifest in sectors directly impacting daily life, including healthcare, housing and utilities, food supplies, transportation, and dining expenses outside the home.

    The inflation metrics derive from the Consumer Price Index, compiled using a basket of 316 distinct goods and services. Price observations occur across approximately 630 measurement points throughout Paramaribo, Wanica, Nickerie, Coronie, Saramacca, Commewijne, and Para regions.

    Despite the less extreme price surges compared to earlier years, inflation remains structurally elevated, with many consumers continuing to experience its consequences in their daily economic activities. The data indicates that while the rate of increase has slowed, the cumulative effect of sustained inflation continues to challenge purchasing power and economic stability.

  • Jones waarschuwt voor ‘vergaande bevoegdheden’ in milieuwet

    Jones waarschuwt voor ‘vergaande bevoegdheden’ in milieuwet

    In a heated session at De Nationale Assemblee, opposition parliamentarian Ebu Jones of the National Democratic Party (NDP) launched scathing criticism against the proposed Sustainable Nature Management Act, warning of constitutional violations and potential foreign interference in Suriname’s natural resources.

    Jones articulated fundamental objections to the legislation during Monday’s debate, characterizing it as granting “abnormal, unprecedented, and far-reaching powers” to the National Environmental Authority (NMA). The lawmaker emphasized that Suriname’s constitution explicitly mandates that natural resources and their revenues must benefit the nation’s overall development—a principle he believes the proposed legislation undermines.

    The parliamentarian expressed particular concern over provisions that would allow revenues from natural resources, including carbon credits, to flow directly to concession holders rather than national development funds. “This effectively diverts money from society and central authority that should instead be deployed for national development,” Jones stated, making clear his intention to block such arrangements.

    Jones further raised alarms about potential foreign influence, suggesting international organizations and foreign powers might use non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to gain control over Suriname’s natural wealth. He warned that such influences could become institutionalized through legislation, requiring heightened vigilance.

    Addressing President Jennifer Simons directly, Jones urged extreme caution in selecting advisors on this matter, warning against opening doors to structures that would divert funds from society.

    The politician asserted that environmental policy should remain with the government—which bears political responsibility and answers to parliament—rather than being delegated to an authority. He criticized provisions making the NMA central to policy preparation, effectively rendering the government dependent on an authority, which he deemed constitutionally improper.

    Jones also identified contradictions between the proposed legislation and existing environmental framework laws, noting that concepts, responsibilities, and powers weren’t consistently aligned, potentially creating legal complications.

    Additional criticisms focused on granting investigative powers to the NMA, which Jones called unacceptable since economic crime investigation and prosecution traditionally fall under police and public prosecutor jurisdiction. He also expressed concerns about the environmental fund gaining expanded capabilities, including loan provision authority, through what he described as “surreptitious means.

    Following unanimous criticism during initial debate, further proceedings have been postponed indefinitely while initiators and legal experts continue refining the legislation.

  • Boek: Corruptie in Suriname

    Boek: Corruptie in Suriname

    A groundbreaking investigation into Suriname’s governance patterns has traced the roots of contemporary corruption directly to Dutch colonial administration practices. Researcher Nizaar Makdoembaks, in his comprehensive study “Corruption in Suriname,” presents compelling evidence that the nation’s current governance challenges represent an institutional inheritance from its colonial past.

    Through exhaustive archival research conducted in both Netherlands and Surinamese repositories, Makdoembaks documents how colonial governance established patterns of misconduct that persist today. The study reveals that from the earliest days of Dutch rule under Governor Van Aerssen van Sommelsdyck through the mid-20th century (1880-1956), colonial administration was characterized by systemic conflicts of interest, double standards, and self-enrichment practices that would have been unacceptable in the Netherlands itself.

    The colonial system created an institutional culture where norm violations became routine, with social position determining sanction risks rather than the severity of offenses. Lower-level officials faced severe punishment for minor infractions—sometimes culminating in tragic suicides—while influential figures enjoyed protection and even rewards for significant malfeasance. This established a fundamental inequality in law application that became embedded in Suriname’s governance DNA.

    Makdoembaks, a former physician and author of twenty studies on former Dutch colonies, demonstrates how these colonial-era practices created the administrative culture that independent Suriname inherited. While acknowledging that new autonomous forms of corruption emerged post-independence, the research establishes that these cannot be understood separately from their colonial foundations. The book provides detailed documentation of diverse corruption manifestations, showing how colonial governance established patterns of cronyism and misconduct that continue to influence Surinamese politics today.

  • Guyana onderschept kwik vermoedelijk gesmokkeld uit Suriname

    Guyana onderschept kwik vermoedelijk gesmokkeld uit Suriname

    In a significant environmental enforcement operation, Guyana’s Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) has intercepted a substantial mercury shipment valued at approximately GY$18 million (US$86,000) near Crabwood Creek along the Corantijn River in Berbice. Authorities strongly suspect the hazardous material originated from Suriname before being illegally trafficked across the border into Guyana.

    The discovery occurred during a routine vehicle inspection conducted by CANU operatives, according to reports from Demerara Waves. Subsequent forensic examination revealed multiple packages containing the highly toxic and strictly regulated substance. The driver was immediately taken into custody and transported to CANU headquarters for intensive interrogation as part of the ongoing investigation.

    Environmental experts emphasize mercury’s severe dangers to both human health and ecological systems. The heavy metal can infiltrate ecosystems through atmospheric dispersion, water contamination, soil pollution, and bioaccumulation in fish species, ultimately entering the human food chain. Guyana has implemented sustained efforts to eliminate mercury usage in gold mining operations due to these documented public health and environmental risks.

    Following preliminary valuation procedures, the confiscated mercury has been transferred to Guyana’s Ministry of Natural Resources for specialized handling, processing, and secure destruction protocols. The suspect remains in police custody while cooperating with investigators. CANU officials indicate that additional arrests may follow as the international smuggling investigation progresses.

  • Trump waarschuwt Maduro: ‘Speel niet te hard’

    Trump waarschuwt Maduro: ‘Speel niet te hard’

    President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro during a press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, suggesting it would be “wise” for Maduro to step down amid escalating tensions. The December 22nd address, attended by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, signaled Washington’s readiness to intensify pressure on Caracas following months of heightened diplomatic strain.

    Trump explicitly stated that removing Maduro from power remains an objective, warning that “if he plays tough, it will be the last time he gets to do so.” Simultaneously, the U.S. Coast Guard continues pursuing a third oil tanker from Venezuela’s alleged “shadow fleet” used to circumvent American sanctions. The president confirmed the retention of previously seized vessels containing nearly 4 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, indicating potential options including sale, retention, or allocation to strategic reserves.

    Maduro responded through state television with a counterattack, urging Trump to address domestic economic and social issues rather than threatening Caracas. The exchange occurs alongside increased U.S. military operations in the region under drug interdiction missions, with over two dozen attacks on suspected drug smuggling operations resulting in more than 100 fatalities—actions whose legality has been questioned by critics.

    The escalating crisis prompted an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting convened at Venezuela’s request with Russian and Chinese support. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed “profound concern” over U.S. operations in the Caribbean, warning of risks to regional stability and international shipping while reaffirming Moscow’s support for Maduro’s government.

    China condemned American actions as “serious violations of international law,” emphasizing Venezuela’s right to independent development through its Foreign Ministry spokesperson. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil presented Maduro’s letter to the UN, warning that U.S. blockade measures would disrupt global oil and energy supplies, particularly affecting vulnerable nations across Latin America and the Caribbean.

  • Rechter dwingt Guillermo Samson tot correctie en excuses aan Bouva

    Rechter dwingt Guillermo Samson tot correctie en excuses aan Bouva

    In a significant legal ruling from the First Cantonal Court, Guillermo Samson has been mandated to issue a comprehensive public correction regarding defamatory statements made about Suriname’s Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva. The December 23rd verdict addressed unsubstantiated allegations Samson presented during a July 27, 2025, Radio Tamara interview concerning after-school childcare operations.

    Presiding Judge Deborah Haakmat-Sniphout determined that Samson’s assertions—which implied Minister Bouva’s involvement in misconduct and abuse of position—constituted unlawful defamation without factual foundation. The court found these unverified claims severely damaged the minister’s reputation and professional standing.

    The court has imposed strict rectification requirements: Samson must publish a formal retraction and apology within 24 hours of verdict notification in three major Surinamese publications—De Ware Tijd, Times of Suriname, and Starnieuws. This mandated statement must explicitly acknowledge that his previous remarks were unfounded, incorrect, and unlawful.

    Additionally, Samson must permanently remove all similar content from digital platforms and public channels. The court established substantial financial penalties for non-compliance, including a daily fine of SRD 100,000 and court costs totaling SRD 12,335. The judgment was issued in absentia as Samson failed to appear in court, and the ruling is immediately enforceable.

  • Eugène van der San benoemd tot voorzitter Administratief Beroepsinstituut

    Eugène van der San benoemd tot voorzitter Administratief Beroepsinstituut

    Suriname has taken a significant step toward enhancing its administrative justice system with the formal installation of the Administrative Appeals Institute (Administratief Beroepsinstituut) on Monday. President Jennifer Simons presided over the inauguration ceremony, appointing distinguished public administration expert Eugène van der San as the institution’s inaugural chairman.

    The newly established institute will serve as a specialized advisory body to the head of state regarding administrative appeal cases. Its mandate encompasses the meticulous preparation of government policy proposals and providing strategic direction for their implementation within existing legal frameworks. The seven-member council, including a secretary, will operate independently while advising the president based on relevant legislation including the Personnel Act, Firearms Act, and Electoral Act.

    Van der San emphasized the institute’s constitutional foundation, noting that Suriname’s governance structure incorporates both judicial and administrative legal processes. “Alongside our judiciary, our state system recognizes administrative legal proceedings where the president serves as the appeals authority,” he explained during the installation ceremony.

    The institutionalization of this body represents a crucial advancement for transparent and careful execution of constitutional duties. Van der San stated that the institute provides the president with “a specialized and structured advisory mechanism” that will ensure greater accountability in administrative decision-making.

    Established for the current government’s term, the institute is expected to become an increasingly important resource for citizens seeking legal recourse, particularly in cases where traditional judicial pathways are limited or unavailable. This development marks a substantial evolution in Suriname’s administrative justice capabilities, potentially affecting how governmental decisions are reviewed and appealed.

  • President Simons belooft structurele aanpak problemen AZP

    President Simons belooft structurele aanpak problemen AZP

    Surinamese President Jennifer Simons has committed to addressing the chronic financial, organizational, and capacity challenges plaguing the Academic Hospital Paramaribo (AZP) during her Monday visit to the medical facility. The head of state emphasized that adequate and structural funding represents the cornerstone for resolving the institution’s operational difficulties.

    Through a series of presentations by medical specialists, President Simons gained comprehensive insight into the hospital’s daily operations and systemic constraints. She affirmed her administration’s dedication to securing essential financial resources that would enable effective problem-solving measures.

    Simons acknowledged that AZP’s challenges have persisted for considerable time, necessitating a methodical approach to safeguard healthcare quality standards. The government’s objective extends beyond hospital-specific improvements to encompass nationwide access to quality medical care for all citizens.

    AZP Director Claudia Marica-Redan characterized the presidential visit as strategically significant for collaborative planning regarding the institution’s future development. She presented the hospital’s roadmap for institutional strengthening, which commences with an acute repair phase in 2026 followed by a one-to-three-year recovery period. This transitional stage will include reinforcement of the hospital’s governance framework.

    The comprehensive briefing covered critical operational areas including emergency department services, intensive care units, neonatal care provisions, and infection control protocols. Director Redan particularly emphasized digital transformation’s role in enhancing organizational transparency and operational efficiency within healthcare delivery systems.

    “The roadmap’s final phase constitutes sustainable development, incorporating AZP’s reconstruction projects and further innovation initiatives,” Redan stated, confirming the hospital administration’s confidence in receiving full presidential support throughout implementation.

    President Simons utilized the occasion to address hospital staff ahead of holiday celebrations, expressing profound appreciation for nursing personnel’s dedication while encouraging continued commitment to patient care excellence. She confirmed that concrete structural improvements at AZP will commence implementation throughout 2026.