Carib Scope

标签： Suriname

苏里南

  • Overheid scherpt aanpak illegale goudwinning in Brownsberg aan

    Overheid scherpt aanpak illegale goudwinning in Brownsberg aan

    Surinamese authorities have launched a coordinated offensive against escalating illegal gold mining operations within the protected confines of Brownsberg Nature Park. The strategic decision emerged from high-level consultations held Friday between key governmental and environmental agencies.

    The interagency meeting convened representatives from the Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB), the Foundation for Nature Preservation in Suriname (STINASU), the Suriname Gold Sector Regulation Authority, and the National Forest Management Service. This collaborative effort was triggered by mounting evidence of intensified unauthorized gold extraction activities threatening the ecological integrity of the preserve.

    During the urgent deliberations, participants emphasized the critical severity of environmental violations and unanimously endorsed enhanced coordination mechanisms. The consensus yielded commitments to strengthen enforcement cooperation through joint operations, improved operational synchronization, and targeted intelligence sharing.

    Beyond immediate enforcement actions, officials discussed implementing structural preventive measures to ensure long-term protection of Brownsberg’s ecosystem. The comprehensive strategy combines tactical enforcement with sustainable conservation approaches, aiming to permanently safeguard the park’s legal and ecological protections. Forthcoming operations will demonstrate the government’s reinforced commitment to combating environmental crimes in protected areas.

  • PMAC vestigt hoofdkantoor in Suriname

    PMAC vestigt hoofdkantoor in Suriname

    Paramaribo has officially been designated as the new headquarters location for the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC), marking a significant strategic shift in regional maritime governance. The Suriname Port Management Company (SPMC) confirmed the establishment of the regional port organization’s secretariat in the Surinamese capital, elevating the nation’s status within Caribbean maritime affairs.

    PMAC represents 27 Caribbean ports and maintains an extensive international network of 42 associate members specializing in port-related services, technological innovation, and professional training programs. The formal transfer of administrative operations occurred in November during an official delegation visit to Paramaribo.

    SPMC, which has held PMAC membership since 2010, was selected for this prestigious role due to its demonstrated active engagement, commitment to enhancing transnational diversity within the organization, and ongoing developments within Suriname’s port and maritime sectors. The appointment of Mrs. Mary-Ann Abdoelkariem as Executive Secretary further influenced the decision-making process.

    This strategic placement provides Suriname with substantial influence over regional port policy formulation and direct access to expertise in port modernization, digital transformation, operational efficiency, and specialized training. The presence of PMAC’s headquarters significantly enhances capacity-building opportunities and strengthens Suriname’s international visibility as an emerging maritime hub.

    PMAC has already commenced operations from its new Surinamese base, recently organizing a ‘Risk and Incident Management in a Port Environment’ training program through the Suriname Port Training Institute, which attracted twelve port professionals from across the region.

    The secretariat is now operational at NV Havenbeheer Suriname on Havenlaan Zuid. PMAC encourages Surinamese maritime sector businesses and organizations to establish contact and leverage regional collaboration and training opportunities available through the association.

  • Extreemrechtse José Antonio Kast gekozen tot president Chili

    Extreemrechtse José Antonio Kast gekozen tot president Chili

    Chile has elected José Antonio Kast as its new president following a decisive runoff election on Sunday. The ultra-conservative Republican Party candidate secured a substantial victory with over 58% of the vote, defeating leftist contender Jeannette Jara who garnered approximately 41%. This electoral outcome represents the most significant political realignment in Chile since the end of Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship in 1990.

    The presidential race proceeded to a second round after the November 16th, 2025 initial election failed to produce an absolute majority winner. Kast, who qualified as the second-place finisher in the first round, ultimately triumphed over Jara despite her endorsement from the incumbent left-wing government.

    Kast’s successful campaign centered on three core issues: public security, immigration control, and economic recovery plans. These themes resonated strongly with Chilean voters amid growing concerns about crime rates and migration patterns. His victory signals a pronounced rightward turn in a nation that has been governed predominantly by center-left coalitions for three decades.

    Constitutional protocols dictate that Kast will not assume office immediately. The presidential inauguration is scheduled for March 11, 2026, when he will succeed current President Gabriel Boric following a standard transition period.

    While Kast’s administration is expected to implement substantial policy changes regarding public safety and immigration, governing may prove challenging without an absolute congressional majority. This political reality may necessitate negotiation and compromise to advance his complete legislative agenda.

  • Bewolkt weer met pittige buien in de middag

    Bewolkt weer met pittige buien in de middag

    Meteorological conditions across Suriname indicate predominantly cloudy to heavily overcast skies throughout the day, with significant weather activity anticipated during afternoon and evening hours. Weather experts report heightened probabilities of rainfall and thunderstorms, particularly affecting coastal regions and western territories. Interior zones may also experience locally intense showers.

    Daytime temperatures are projected to reach maximum values between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F), while early morning minimum temperatures will hover around 23°C to 24°C (73°F to 75°F). The combination of elevated temperatures and high humidity levels is expected to create noticeably muggy conditions across the nation.

    Surface winds will maintain light to moderate intensity from eastern directions throughout the day. However, meteorological authorities note that wind velocities may temporarily intensify during thunderstorm activity. Residents in affected areas are advised to monitor weather developments and exercise caution during severe weather episodes. The weather pattern reflects typical December meteorological behavior for the region, though the intensity of thunderstorms may cause localized disruptions.

  • Zestien doden en tientallen gewonden bij schietpartij in Sydney

    Zestien doden en tientallen gewonden bij schietpartij in Sydney

    SYDNEY – A horrific mass shooting shattered the evening calm at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach on Sunday, leaving 16 people dead and more than 40 injured, including four children. The attack occurred at approximately 6:40 PM local time as over a thousand Jewish celebrants gathered for a Hanukkah festival, transforming a joyous public event into a scene of terror and tragedy.

    According to New South Wales Police, two armed men initiated a sustained shooting spree that lasted approximately ten minutes. Emergency services responded en masse to the scene where officers encountered the perpetrators actively firing upon civilians. In the ensuing confrontation, police opened fire, resulting in two officers being seriously wounded. Both are currently reported in serious but stable condition.

    One shooter, identified as a 50-year-old male, was fatally shot by police at the scene. The second suspect, a 24-year-old man, sustained critical injuries and remains under police guard in a hospital. Authorities have secured three firearms for forensic examination as the investigation continues.

    The human toll continues to mount, with fourteen victims pronounced dead at the scene. Two additional casualties – a 10-year-old girl and a 40-year-old man – later succumbed to their injuries at medical facilities. The victims, who have not been formally identified, are believed to range in age from 10 to 87 years. Five survivors remain in critical condition, with others classified as serious or stable.

    Bondi Beach and surrounding roadways remain closed as forensic teams process the extensive crime scene. The attack represents one of Australia’s deadliest mass shootings in decades, particularly shocking for its targeting of a religious celebration at one of the nation’s most recognizable public spaces. While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities have not yet disclosed potential motives for the unprecedented violence.

  • Column: Vreemdelingen, vrienden, brothers & sisters

    Column: Vreemdelingen, vrienden, brothers & sisters

    In an extraordinary display of cross-cultural connection, more than 100 journalists from 94 countries transformed from strangers into family through the China International Press Communication Center Program 2025. Despite initial language barriers and diverse backgrounds, these media professionals developed profound relationships that transcended geographical and cultural divides.

    The four-month program, which spanned from summer through early winter, provided a unique environment for building genuine human connections. Participants gradually moved beyond professional collegiality to form deep friendships rooted in shared values of truth-seeking and storytelling. Communication evolved beyond verbal language to include smiles, understanding glances, and attentive listening—creating a tapestry of human experiences that bridged national origins and beliefs.

    Seasonal changes provided a magical backdrop to their journey, culminating in a memorable first snowfall experience for many participants. The group embraced childlike wonder during midnight snowball fights on their residential plaza, creating joyful disturbances that drew curious neighbors to their windows.

    Cultural exchange reached its peak when journalists collectively learned two iconic Chinese songs—’The Moon Represents My Heart’ and ‘Zài Jiàn (Goodbye)’—adding English lyrics that expressed their emotional journey: ‘I promise you, my friend, to see you and I’m being honest/Hand in hand, we’ll walk together again.’

    As the program concludes, participants face emotionally charged farewells filled with both sadness and profound gratitude. The parting feels particularly poignant given the intensity of connections formed in this relatively brief period. Rather than viewing this as an ending, journalists are committing to maintain their bonds through future visits and ongoing communication, proving that true friendship can overcome any barrier of language, religion, or culture.

    This experience demonstrates that in an often-divided world, genuine human connection remains possible when people come together with open hearts and minds. The program has not only created lasting personal relationships but has also expanded participants’ worldviews, making the global community feel both smaller in its connectivity and larger in its possibilities.

  • Guyana: een economie die explodeert, terwijl dagelijks leven onbetaalbaar wordt

    Guyana: een economie die explodeert, terwijl dagelijks leven onbetaalbaar wordt

    Guyana presents a study in economic contrasts as it undergoes one of the world’s most rapid transformations. While massive infrastructure projects reshape the coastal landscape around Georgetown and Demerara, the population grapples with living costs disproportionately high compared to local incomes. This divergence between macroeconomic indicators and daily reality defines South America’s fastest-growing economy.

    Since commencing oil production in late 2019, Guyana has achieved extraordinary economic expansion. GDP surged over 60% in 2022, followed by 20-30% annual growth in 2023 and 2024, with projections of 12-15% growth for 2025. The offshore Stabroek Block operations, led by ExxonMobil with Chevron and CNOOC, now exceed 600,000 barrels daily, driving unprecedented government revenues and foreign reserves.

    Despite these indicators, daily life reveals a different story. Senior journalist Denis Chabrol of Demerara Waves describes Guyana as effectively dollarized, with prices for imported goods mirroring US levels while average monthly incomes range between $500-600. Georgetown residents require approximately $750 monthly for basic survival excluding transportation, creating significant financial pressure.

    The monetary system exacerbates these challenges. The Bank of Guyana maintains an artificial exchange rate stability around GYD 208-215 per USD, masking a structural dollar shortage. Strict currency controls force businesses and citizens through lengthy dollar acquisition processes, fostering a parallel market where dollars trade 10-20% above official rates. These additional costs ultimately transfer to consumers.

    Wage growth remains constrained, particularly in non-oil sectors including education, healthcare, retail, and government services. This deliberate policy to avoid inflation acceleration has diminished purchasing power as fixed costs for housing, food, and transportation escalate dramatically. Street interviews near Stabroek Market reveal food prices increasing 60-100% over five years, with rents approaching Caribbean and US levels.

    Additional complications arise from migration patterns. The oil boom has attracted workers from Venezuela and Cuba, primarily filling construction, hospitality, and domestic service roles. While some positions remain unfilled by locals, the increased demand for housing and services further drives inflation in urban centers.

    Environmental challenges accompany economic growth, with waste accumulation along waterways and streets indicating inadequate waste management systems struggling to match urbanization pace.

    Guyana now stands at a historical crossroads. Without reforms in currency policy, wage development, and social investment, the nation risks falling prey to the ‘resource curse’ – where impressive economic growth coincides with decreasing affordability of daily life. For neighboring Suriname, anticipating its own oil industry emergence by 2028, Guyana’s experience serves as both mirror and warning about managing natural resource wealth for sustainable, inclusive development.

  • Tweede Huisartsen Spoedpost geopend aan Nieuwweergevondenweg

    Tweede Huisartsen Spoedpost geopend aan Nieuwweergevondenweg

    Suriname’s healthcare system has taken a significant step forward with the inauguration of its second General Practitioner Urgent Care Center at Nieuwweergevondenweg 6. Health Minister André Misiekaba officially opened the facility on Saturday, describing it as a crucial component in the government’s broader strategy to enhance healthcare accessibility and gradually strengthen medical services nationwide.

    The new center addresses the overwhelming pressure on existing emergency services, particularly the Emergency Department at Paramaribo Academic Hospital (AZP), which handles the most critical and complex cases around the clock. Minister Misiekaba highlighted international models, specifically noting how neighborhood-based facilities in the United States operate their own emergency units to stabilize patients before potential transfers.

    Through the Regional Health Service (RGD), Suriname aims to develop a comparable system where urgent care centers manage less acute cases within communities. This approach allows hospital emergency departments to focus on life-threatening situations while patients with non-critical conditions receive treatment closer to home, resulting in more efficient allocation of healthcare resources.

    Minister Misiekaba also addressed ongoing staffing challenges, acknowledging that despite recruiting specialized nurses from countries including the Philippines, operating rooms and ICU beds remain limited. To fully restore AZP’s capacity, the government has allocated funds in the 2026 budget to attract additional specialized nursing staff.

    A third GP Urgent Care Center in Meerzorg is already in planning stages to accommodate growing demand in the area and improve healthcare access for much of Commewijne district. The minister urged citizens to first utilize their nearest urgent care facility, allowing nurses to determine if hospital referral is necessary—a practice that brings healthcare closer to communities while reducing strain on emergency departments.

    The first urgent care center operates at the State Health Fund on Fred Derbystraat. With this second opening, Suriname moves closer to establishing a better distributed, accessible, and community-focused healthcare structure.

  • Chili staat voor scherpe ruk naar rechts bij presidentsverkiezingen

    Chili staat voor scherpe ruk naar rechts bij presidentsverkiezingen

    Chile stands at a pivotal political juncture as citizens head to the polls today for a decisive presidential runoff election that could mark the most significant rightward shift since the end of military dictatorship in 1990. The contest pits radical right Republican Party leader José Antonio Kast against left-wing governing coalition candidate Jeannette Jara of the Communist Party.

    Approximately 15.6 million eligible voters are participating in Chile’s first mandatory-vote presidential election, introducing additional uncertainty about the final outcome. Polling stations will close at 6:00 PM local time, with preliminary results expected shortly thereafter.

    Despite finishing second in the first round, Kast has gained momentum through consolidated support from eliminated right-wing candidates. Analysts project he may surpass the 50 percent threshold required for victory. Jara, who won the initial round, faces diminishing prospects due to fragmentation among left-wing factions and growing voter dissatisfaction.

    The election campaign has been dominated by crime and security concerns, transforming public discourse despite Chile remaining one of Latin America’s safer nations. Increased organized criminal activity and illegal immigration have propelled these issues to the forefront. Kast has capitalized on these anxieties with a hardline security agenda promising to restore “order and trust.

    These themes have burdened incumbent leftist President Gabriel Boric, who struggles with low approval ratings. His administration’s measures—including additional police resources and military deployment along the northern border—have failed to satisfy many constituents.

    Financial markets have responded favorably to Kast’s potential victory, with investors anticipating market-oriented reforms, deregulation, and pension system adjustments. Following the first round, both the Chilean peso and stock market recorded gains.

    However, critics warn of societal consequences should the radical right candidate prevail. Political analysts interpret his rise as reflecting profound distrust in traditional politics and escalating demands for security. With a substantial portion of voters still undecided or considering blank ballots, the outcome remains uncertain until the final moments. What remains clear is that Chile faces a political crossroads that could determine the nation’s trajectory for years to come.

  • Jonge ondernemers krijgen structurele steun

    Jonge ondernemers krijgen structurele steun

    The Surinamese government is developing a comprehensive structural program to train and mentor young entrepreneurs, with President Jennifer Simons announcing collaborative efforts with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) during Saturday’s Entrepreneurship Fair & Bazaar at the Congreshall. Existing institutions have already initiated training programs as part of this national initiative.

    President Simons emphasized the critical importance of providing youth with economic development opportunities to prevent cycles of poverty. She stated that sustainable entrepreneurship requires robust support through training, skill development, and continuous guidance. “Young people must be given the space to excel in their chosen fields,” Simons declared during her address.

    The event, organized by the RUMAS Foundation under Emmy Hart’s leadership and themed ‘Dream to Goal,’ focused on promoting self-employment among young Surinamese. The president commended the organization’s efforts, describing the participation of young trainers and attendees as “encouraging and hopeful.”

    Multiple government agencies are already implementing support measures. The Foundation for Labor Mobilization & Development (SAO) has commenced training sessions, while the Foundation for Productive Work Units (SPWE) requires further strengthening. The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports has also scheduled educational activities. Additionally, the government plans to establish a specialized institute next year to guide aspiring entrepreneurs through partnerships with private sector entities and existing community organizations.

    President Simons highlighted that well-prepared entrepreneurs will be positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities as Suriname’s oil and gas sector develops further. She urged young entrepreneurs to persevere and continue their education despite business challenges.

    The fair featured presentations from four entrepreneurial groups representing hairstylists, textile workers, landscapers, and pastry chefs. The Volkscredietbank (VCB) provided information about affordable loan options, while RUMAS director Hart announced new training programs for canteen management, car wash businesses, and construction sectors.

    Participant Kelvin Paiman, a hairstylist, described the event as a significant motivational boost. “My hobby has become my profession,” he stated, noting that such initiatives help eliminate doubts among youth considering business ventures.