Carib Scope

标签： Suriname

苏里南

  • Zorg voor kinderen die stotteren wordt versterkt

    Zorg voor kinderen die stotteren wordt versterkt

    A significant advancement in speech therapy services is unfolding across the Dutch Caribbean region as specialized training programs enhance care for children who stutter. Suriname currently hosts an intensive professional development course bringing together speech therapists from Suriname, Curaçao, and Aruba with the primary objective of improving support systems for young stutterers and their families.

    Fifteen speech therapists from Suriname are participating in the ‘Stuttering in Children’ certification program, while seven colleagues from Curaçao and Aruba are attending via virtual platforms. The training is conducted by certified stuttering therapists Irma Uijterlinde and Liesbeth Zoontjens, who traveled specifically to Suriname to deliver the specialized curriculum according to therapist Gracia Nelson.

    Zoontjens emphasized the critical need for expanded expertise, noting that only three specialized stuttering therapists currently serve the entire Dutch Caribbean population. ‘With improved knowledge and techniques, speech therapists can provide more targeted guidance to both children who stutter and their parents,’ she explained. Uijterlinde reinforced the importance of early intervention, stating: ‘The sooner a child receives appropriate help, the greater their chances of recovery and normal developmental progression.’

    Medical statistics indicate that approximately 1% of the general population experiences stuttering conditions. The phenomenon is more prevalent among young children, with about 8% of children under six years old undergoing a stuttering phase. Notably, one quarter of these children will develop persistent stuttering patterns without professional intervention. Timely therapeutic support can substantially reduce the long-term impact on communication abilities and social development.

    The comprehensive curriculum addresses multiple facets of stuttering management, including diagnostic procedures, parental guidance strategies, and collaborative approaches with educational institutions. The initial training days focus on therapeutic techniques for children under six years old, followed by specialized modules addressing the needs of children aged six to twelve years. A follow-up session is scheduled for March to reinforce learning outcomes and clinical applications.

    The professional development initiative commenced Monday at the Association of Medici building and will continue through January 17th, representing a concerted effort to address regional healthcare disparities in speech pathology services.

  • Snelle Guyana olieproductie verkort levensduur Liza-velden drastisch

    Snelle Guyana olieproductie verkort levensduur Liza-velden drastisch

    Guyana’s emerging oil economy faces a significant challenge as production data reveals the rapid depletion of its flagship Liza One and Liza Two oil fields. According to information from Guyana’s Ministry of Natural Resources, these strategic assets operated by ExxonMobil in the Stabroek Block may exhaust their recoverable reserves within just 2-3 years—dramatically shorter than the originally projected 20-year lifespan.

    The Liza One field, operational since December 2019, currently holds approximately 189 million remaining barrels. With its 2025 production averaging 140,000 barrels daily (51 million annually), calculations suggest complete depletion could occur within slightly over three years. Similarly, Liza Two—commissioned in February 2022 with 266 million barrels remaining—produced at 250,000 barrels daily in 2025 (91 million annually), potentially exhausting its reserves in just over two years.

    This accelerated timeline stems from production agreements between ExxonMobil and the Guyanese government that prioritized rapid extraction. However, this approach has substantially shortened the economic viability of these fields while coinciding with unfavorable market conditions. Brent crude prices have declined from approximately $100 per barrel during the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict to current levels around $62, with analysts warning potential further drops to $50 due to geopolitical developments including U.S. interventions in Venezuela.

    Compounding these challenges, Guyana’s revenue-sharing model has limited national benefits. The absence of ring-fencing provisions allows ExxonMobil to allocate up to 75% of monthly production to recover costs from other Stabroek Block projects—a particularly disadvantageous arrangement during periods of high oil prices.

    Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo previously defended this strategy, stating in October 2023 that the country was ‘sacrificing current revenues for massive future returns.’ However, the combination of rapidly depleting reserves, declining prices, and contractual terms now raises serious questions about whether Guyana will maximize benefits from its petroleum resources. The situation threatens to significantly impact funding for the national development agenda, highlighting the complex tradeoffs between accelerated extraction and sustainable resource management.

  • Somohardjo: OCER-terrein NDP deels uitgegeven in vorige periode

    Somohardjo: OCER-terrein NDP deels uitgegeven in vorige periode

    A significant land management scandal has emerged in Suriname, revealing that a portion of the National Democratic Party (NDP) party grounds operated by Stichting Ontspanningscentrum Eerste Rijweg (OCER) was unlawfully allocated during the previous government term. This finding comes from an official investigation conducted by the Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB).

    Assembly Member Bronto Somohardjo, who chairs the GBB’s permanent committee, provided documented evidence to substantiate these claims. The disputed property has been legally leased to OCER since 1991 for social and recreational purposes. According to cadastral maps and official registrations, the allocated parcel was not state-owned domain land but fell entirely within an existing land lease right.

    The Land Survey Service’s conclusion is unequivocal: the allocation was legally incorrect. Somohardjo disclosed that over recent months, he has been approached by hundreds of citizens and organizations who had completely lost confidence in the land management system. These individuals presented concrete cases with requests for official verification of what had actually occurred.

    “These were not mere stories or rumors,” Somohardjo emphasized. “People came forward with documents in hand, stating: ‘Check this for us because we no longer trust the system.’ I take such concerns seriously.”

    The OCER case confirms what many citizens have experienced for years, according to Somohardjo. “If even OCER wasn’t safe, then no one was safe during that period. That’s the harsh reality we must face.” He noted that rules provided no protection, and people who believed their rights were secure could still lose them, causing profound damage to public trust in government.

    However, Somohardjo highlighted that a different approach now prevails. “What matters to me is that complaints today aren’t dismissed. They’re investigated. This isn’t an easy path and progress can be challenging, but it’s the correct approach.”

    The politician pointed out that the GBB ministry has since addressed and resolved multiple stalled cases. Despite significant backlogs and complex problems, progress is being made step by step toward restoring legal certainty.

    “People no longer need to fear that their property might simply disappear,” Somohardjo stated. “Those who come forward today will be heard. As long as I bear responsibility, I will ensure that rules provide protection rather than uncertainty.”

  • Politie Nederland: ruim 300 kilo cocaïne aangetroffen in bevroren vis uit Suriname

    Politie Nederland: ruim 300 kilo cocaïne aangetroffen in bevroren vis uit Suriname

    Dutch law enforcement agencies have made a significant narcotics interception after discovering 319 kilograms of cocaine concealed within a shipment of frozen fish. The sophisticated smuggling operation was uncovered on Monday, January 12th, following a targeted investigation prompted by intelligence regarding potential drug trafficking activities.

    The suspicious container, originating from Suriname, was intercepted at a commercial facility in Barneveld. Specialist units including the National Investigation and Intervention Unit and the National Expertise and Operations Unit initiated a comprehensive examination after initial scans revealed unexplained anomalies within the cargo.

    Despite preliminary scans failing to directly identify narcotics, investigators detected irregularities that warranted further manual inspection. Each frozen fish underwent individual scanning, leading to the discovery of anomalous substances within portion of the shipment.

    Upon forensic examination, law enforcement personnel surgically opened the frozen fish, revealing professionally packaged cocaine bundles concealed within the marine products. The total seizure amounted to approximately 319 kilograms of high-purity cocaine with substantial street value.

    Authorities have clarified that the Barneveld-based company where the container was intercepted currently shows no indications of involvement in the smuggling operation. The criminal investigation continues to focus on identifying the trafficking network’s origins and those responsible for the sophisticated concealment methodology.

    The confiscated narcotics have been securely transferred to customs authorities and subsequently destroyed in accordance with Dutch drug enforcement protocols. This interception represents one of the more inventive concealment methods recently encountered by European border security agencies.

  • Natascha Kalo voorgedragen als gedelegeerd commissaris bij Grassalco

    Natascha Kalo voorgedragen als gedelegeerd commissaris bij Grassalco

    In a significant corporate governance development, Natascha Kalo has been appointed as interim executive commissioner of N.V. Grassalco following her nomination by shareholders. The company’s Board of Commissioners ratified the appointment during an emergency meeting held Thursday morning.

    Kalo’s elevation to this temporary leadership position comes just days after the Board suspended CEO Wesley Rozenhout on Monday, January 12th. This decisive action is directly connected to an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of approximately four kilograms of gold from the state mining enterprise.

    The Board of Commissioners, chaired by Berto Sampi, emphasized the critical need for unimpeded information flow to ensure a thorough and independent investigation. The suspension of Rozenhout was additionally justified by alleged violations of company statutes according to official statements.

    In her new capacity as executive commissioner, Kalo will assume specific temporary duties and authorities to exercise intensified oversight of organizational operations. This interim governance structure will remain effective until the appointment of a new permanent chief executive officer.

    Meanwhile, Grassalco has initiated an internal ‘quickscan’ assessment while maintaining normal daily operational activities. The current Board of Commissioners comprises Chairman Berto Sampi alongside members Steven Jungerman, Joël Anches, and Ivan Brunswijk, who will continue to provide governance during this transitional period.

  • Na Iraanse vergeldingswaarschuwing, VS trekt personeel terug uit Midden-Oosten

    Na Iraanse vergeldingswaarschuwing, VS trekt personeel terug uit Midden-Oosten

    The United States has initiated a partial withdrawal of personnel from strategic military installations across the Middle East, confirmed a senior U.S. official on Wednesday. This precautionary measure follows intelligence indicating Tehran has alerted neighboring nations about potential retaliatory strikes against American facilities should Washington authorize military action against Iran.

    The escalating tensions occur amid Iran’s most severe domestic unrest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with the regime facing unprecedented pressure from widespread anti-government protests. According to informed sources, the personnel withdrawal specifically targets key operational centers including U.S. regional headquarters in Qatar and Bahrain.

    European and Israeli intelligence assessments suggest American military intervention appears increasingly probable, potentially within a 24-hour window. Qatari authorities acknowledged the ongoing withdrawal from Al Udeid Air Base—the largest U.S. military installation in the region—citing heightened security concerns.

    While select personnel have received evacuation orders, defense officials note the absence of large-scale withdrawal patterns previously observed before major confrontations, such as during last year’s Iranian missile attacks.

    The human cost continues to mount with Iranian authorities reporting over 2,000 fatalities since protests began, while independent human rights organizations document at least 2,600 deaths and approximately 18,000 arrests—marking this as the deadliest civil unrest in decades. Iranian military leadership attributes the instability to foreign adversaries, with France’s Foreign Minister condemning the government’s crackdown as “the most violent suppression in contemporary Iranian history.”

    Tehran has formally accused the United States and Israel of instigating protests, labeling demonstrators as “armed terrorists.” Simultaneously, Iranian officials have warned regional allies that American bases in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey would become immediate targets should the U.S. launch attacks against Iran.

    Diplomatic channels have deteriorated significantly with the suspension of communications between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The Iranian government continues to stage public ceremonies demonstrating regime support while maintaining tight security control.

    Western analysts suggest that despite unprecedented domestic challenges, Iran’s security apparatus remains firmly intact with no immediate threat of governmental collapse. President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that “enemy efforts will achieve nothing” as long as public support persists.

    Meanwhile, Iran’s judiciary announced accelerated trials for individuals accused of serious violence during protests, with human rights organizations warning of imminent executions—including that of a young man allegedly involved in demonstrations.

    The situation remains critically volatile with the international community monitoring developments with profound concern. The coming days are expected to prove decisive for regional stability and potential escalation in U.S.-Iran hostilities.

  • Robert Peneux voorzitter nieuwe Raad van Toezicht IOL

    Robert Peneux voorzitter nieuwe Raad van Toezicht IOL

    In a significant move to enhance educational governance, Suriname’s Ministry of Education, Science and Culture has established a new Oversight Council for the Institute for Teacher Education (IOL). The council was formally installed on Tuesday by Minister Dirk Currie, with veteran educator Robert Peneux appointed as its chairman.

    Peneux, former director of the critical teacher training institute, now leads the five-member supervisory body comprising Ricardo Kenswil, Rawien Mangal, Joan Vliese, and Robby Holband. The installation ceremony included the formal handover of transfer documents to Peneux, marking the beginning of the council’s mandate to strengthen institutional governance and oversight mechanisms.

    Minister Currie identified the formalization of IOL’s legal status as an immediate priority, emphasizing that establishing a clear juridical framework for both the institute and its oversight council would create a solid foundation for administrative operations and future development. This legal structuring is expected to provide greater stability and clarity in the institution’s governance model.

    While acknowledging the importance of legal formalization, Chairman Peneux emphasized that internal structural reforms must take precedence. He specifically mentioned the need to redesign the organizational chart and reconsider the institute’s internal frameworks before addressing external legal matters.

    The newly installed council has outlined several strategic priorities including transforming IOL into a comprehensive School of Education, conducting thorough financial audits of the institution, and establishing a dedicated Human Resources Management department to strengthen personnel policies and organizational development.

    Minister Currie expressed full confidence in the expertise and commitment of the new oversight body, stressing that effective governance, transparency, and strategic direction are essential for enhancing the quality of teacher education in Suriname. The establishment of the council represents a proactive approach to educational reform in the country’s teacher preparation system.

  • Dossier houtexport 10: Hoger beroep donderdag bij Hof van Justitie

    Dossier houtexport 10: Hoger beroep donderdag bij Hof van Justitie

    The Court of Justice of Suriname convened on Thursday to hear a significant appellate case pitting the Surinamese government against multiple timber exporting corporations. This legal confrontation centers on the state’s imposition of restrictive measures on wood exports, invoking both national statutes and international regulatory commitments.

    Represented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries (LVV), the state initiated actions against six prominent timber firms: Pinnacle Timber Products N.V., Green Wood World N.V., Harmony Timber N.V., Wintrip International N.V., Bakhuis Forest N.V., and Atlantic Asia Resources N.V. These companies had previously challenged government interventions that either curtailed or completely suspended their export operations, primarily concerning disputes over export documentation accuracy.

    The government’s enforcement measures stemmed from identified risks that authentic phytosanitary certificates might contain misrepresented timber species. Such discrepancies, authorities argued, could expose Suriname to severe international repercussions, including potential export bans from importing nations.

    Although proceeding through civil judicial channels, the case intersects with a parallel criminal investigation. The LVV ministry has formally requested the Attorney General’s office to initiate criminal proceedings regarding potential offenses in timber processing and certification practices. This development includes the announced intention to file charges against Anand Ramkisoensing, a former LVV director recently removed from position.

    The appellate court’s deliberation focuses on determining whether the state’s measures remained both lawful and proportionate given Suriname’s international obligations. The impending verdict carries substantial implications for the nation’s timber export industry and future regulatory approaches to natural resource management.

  • Trump roept Iraniërs op tot aanhoudende protesten: ‘Hulp is onderweg’

    Trump roept Iraniërs op tot aanhoudende protesten: ‘Hulp is onderweg’

    Amid Iran’s most significant civil unrest in years, former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a provocative call for Iranians to sustain their demonstrations against the government. Through his Truth Social platform, Trump declared “help is on the way” while urging citizens to document the identities of security forces committing violence against protesters, warning that perpetrators would “pay a heavy price.”

    The escalating crisis has reached alarming proportions, with Iranian officials acknowledging approximately 2,000 fatalities since protests began in late December—the first official death toll assessment. Human rights organizations present even grimmer statistics, reporting over 1,800 demonstrator deaths and more than 16,700 arrests, representing a substantial increase from previous estimates. Independent verification remains challenging due to widespread internet disruptions throughout the country.

    When pressed by journalists to specify the nature of promised assistance, Trump declined to provide concrete details. His administration has already implemented stringent economic measures, including 25% import tariffs on nations trading with Iran—a significant oil exporter. Additionally, Trump confirmed considering military options in response to the government’s violent suppression of dissent.

    The U.S. State Department has urgently advised American citizens to evacuate Iran immediately, including through land borders with Turkey and Armenia. Trump further cautioned during a CBS News interview that “very powerful measures” would follow if Iran proceeded with executing detained protesters. Reports from Kurdish organizations indicate a 26-year-old protester in Karaj faces imminent execution, though independent confirmation remains unavailable.

    Communications infrastructure in Iran continues to be severely compromised, with partial restoration of telephone services while internet access remains largely blocked. In response, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service has been made available gratis to facilitate information exchange.

    Initially sparked by economic grievances and currency devaluation, the protests have evolved into broader demands for systemic change. Iranian leadership has accused the United States and Israel of instigating unrest, labeling Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu as “primary murderers” of the Iranian people.

    China, a major consumer of Iranian oil, has joined Turkey, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and India in condemning U.S. tariff policies. Despite intense repression, no significant fractures have emerged within Iran’s ruling elite that has maintained power since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

    European nations including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy have summoned ambassadors to protest the violence. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the rising death toll as “horrific,” while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested the regime approaches its demise if reliant solely on violence to maintain power.

    The coming weeks present critical challenges for Iran’s future as international scrutiny and pressure intensify.

  • Column: RIP Arnie Breeveld

    Column: RIP Arnie Breeveld

    Suriname has lost one of its most distinguished cultural ambassadors with the passing of Arnie Breeveld on December 30, 2025, during his holiday in the South American nation. The multi-talented performer, who died at 87, represented a crucial bridge between generations within the renowned Breeveld family dynasty that has profoundly influenced Surinamese-Dutch cultural landscapes for decades.

    Arnie emerged from an extraordinary artistic lineage. His father Frits Breeveld gained acclaim in 1954 portraying God in the production ‘Green Pastures,’ while uncle Reyer performed supporting roles during Sranan Neti theatrical events. The family’s theatrical legacy continued with aunts Muddi and Roda Breeveld, the latter achieving cinematic immortality through her poignant performance as the dying mother in the landmark film ‘Wan Pipel.’

    Before establishing himself as a cultural icon, Breeveld first excelled as an elite athlete, competing nationally in track and field (100m sprint, high jump, and long jump) while simultaneously representing Suriname’s basketball team in 1962.

    Breeveld’s cultural impact became particularly significant through his pioneering role in Suriname’s media evolution. In 1958, he and cousin Borger participated in experimental television broadcasts that drew massive crowds to storefront displays on Steenbakkerijstraat. His artistic repertoire included regular performances at Paramaribo’s prestigious Palace Hotel and the Jaarbeurspaviljoen, with his interpretation of ‘Portrait of My Love’ earning particular acclaim.

    The artist’s migration to the Netherlands in 1969 marked a new chapter of professional achievement. He secured roles in controversial theater productions like ‘Oh! Calcutta!’ (where performers appeared nude) and the 1974 film ‘De vijf van de vierdaagse.’ His television presence expanded through appearances in series including ‘Kon hesi baka,’ adapted from Henk Barnard’s Golden Griffel-winning children’s book.

    Breeveld reached his career zenith in 1973 by winning the special edition of popular game show ‘Een van de Acht’ commemorating Queen Juliana’s 25th anniversary, defeating seven competitors before the monarch herself. This victory propelled him to nationwide fame throughout the Netherlands, where single-channel television broadcasting ensured massive viewership.

    Beyond performing, Breeveld developed as a visual artist whose realistic depictions of Surinamese still lifes resonated deeply with the Dutch Surinamese diaspora. Those who knew him personally remember his captivating a capella renditions of spirituals and classics like ‘Ol’ Man River,’ delivered with such profound bass vocals that listeners debated whether his interpretation surpassed Paul Robeson’s original.

    Though remembered as having ‘specific user instructions’ rather than being an ‘everyman’s friend,’ Breeveld maintained strong family connections throughout his life. His passing marks the conclusion of an extraordinary cultural journey that spanned sports, music, theater, television, and visual arts across two continents.