Carib Scope

标签： Suriname

苏里南

  • Franse ambassade sluit LGBTIQ+ Filmfestival af met prijswinnende film

    Franse ambassade sluit LGBTIQ+ Filmfestival af met prijswinnende film

    The French Embassy in Suriname is set to conclude the Suriname International LGBTIQ+ Festival on Thursday with a screening of the acclaimed French film ‘Arrête avec tes mensonges’ (Lie with Me). This annual festival, held throughout October’s Pride Month, features a different embassy presenting an LGBTIQ+-themed film each week. Previous participants include the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, and Canada.

    Directed by Olivier Peyon, the film tells the story of a renowned writer who returns to his hometown and is confronted with a hidden childhood romance that profoundly shaped his life. It is a poignant exploration of love, identity, silence, and liberation. The screening is suitable for audiences aged 17 and above.

    Practical Details:
    • Location: TBL Cinemas, Paramaribo
    • Time: 7:00 PM
    • Admission: Free
    • Language: French with English subtitles

    Through this event, the French Embassy reaffirms its commitment to cultural diversity, dialogue, and inclusion. Following the screening, the embassy will host an informal gathering for attendees.

  • Gevaar nasleep orkaan Melissa in Jamaica, orkaan nadert Cuba

    Gevaar nasleep orkaan Melissa in Jamaica, orkaan nadert Cuba

    Jamaica is reeling from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that struck the island on Tuesday with wind speeds reaching up to 295 km/h. The hurricane unleashed torrential floods, powerful gusts that ripped roofs off buildings, and triggered landslides, claiming at least three lives and leaving tens of thousands without power. Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the unprecedented strength of the storm, stating that no infrastructure could withstand such force and that recovery efforts would be monumental. The southwestern region, particularly St. Elizabeth, bore the brunt of the destruction, with widespread flooding and severe damage reported. Many families were trapped in their homes as emergency services struggled to navigate the perilous conditions. Approximately 15,000 people sought refuge in shelters, while 77% of households were left without electricity. Four major hospitals sustained damage, with one losing power entirely, necessitating the evacuation of 75 patients. Hurricane Melissa set multiple records, with a barometric pressure of 892 millibars and wind speeds of 298 km/h, rivaling historic storms like the 1935 Labor Day hurricane and Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The storm also generated life-threatening storm surges of up to 4 meters. As Melissa moved toward Cuba on Tuesday evening, Cuban authorities braced for heavy rainfall of up to 51 centimeters and significant coastal flooding. President Miguel Díaz-Canel urged citizens not to underestimate the storm’s power, and thousands were evacuated from eastern provinces. The U.S. Defense Department released footage from Hurricane Hunter flights, which provided critical data to the National Hurricane Center. The storm claimed seven lives across the Caribbean, including three in Jamaica. Jamaican officials warned of ongoing dangers, such as the potential displacement of crocodiles due to flooding, and prepared boats and helicopters for rescue operations post-storm. International aid organizations are poised to deliver food, medicine, and other emergency supplies. Jamaica’s airports are expected to reopen by Thursday, contingent on damage assessments.

  • Melissa is beest te midden van reeks monsterlijke Atlantische stormen

    Melissa is beest te midden van reeks monsterlijke Atlantische stormen

    Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday with unprecedented wind speeds of 298 km/h, matching historical records. This extraordinary hurricane defied typical meteorological patterns, intensifying even as it approached land, a phenomenon that left scientists both baffled and concerned. Melissa’s rapid intensification—gaining 113 km/h in wind speed within 24 hours—was fueled by unusually warm Atlantic waters, a direct consequence of climate change, according to experts.

    Phil Klotzbach, a hurricane researcher at Colorado State University, described Melissa as ‘a remarkable storm, just a beast.’ The hurricane’s wind speeds and air pressure matched records set by the deadly 1935 Labor Day storm in Florida and Hurricane Dorian in 2019. Unlike typical hurricanes, Melissa did not weaken during an eyewall replacement cycle, a process that usually tempers storm intensity. Instead, it maintained its strength, even lingering near Jamaica’s mountainous terrain, which typically disrupts storms.

    Bernadette Woods Placky, chief meteorologist at Climate Central, emphasized the role of warm ocean waters in Melissa’s intensity. ‘The storm seemed to effortlessly ventilate itself,’ she noted, highlighting the unusually deep and warm waters that provided continuous fuel for the hurricane. Melissa’s rapid intensification occurred in five six-hour periods, a rare and alarming pattern.

    Climate Central’s analysis suggests that the warming of ocean waters, driven by human-induced climate change, made the conditions for Melissa’s formation 500 to 700 times more likely. This aligns with a broader trend: since 2016, there have been 13 Category 5 hurricanes in the Atlantic, a significant increase compared to previous decades. While hurricane records from the pre-satellite era are less reliable, the data underscores a clear link between climate change and the intensification of storms.

    As the world continues to warm, experts predict more powerful hurricanes, even if the total number of storms does not increase. ‘When these storms move over extremely warm water, it’s extra fuel for rapid intensification and record-breaking events,’ Woods Placky concluded.

  • Venezuela verklaart premier Trinidad en Tobago persona non grata

    Venezuela verklaart premier Trinidad en Tobago persona non grata

    Venezuela has declared Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, persona non grata, escalating tensions between the neighboring nations over the presence of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean. The Venezuelan National Assembly approved the sanction on Tuesday, officially barring Persad-Bissessar from entering the country. In response, the Prime Minister dismissed the move, stating, ‘Why would they think I’d want to go to Venezuela?’ in an interview with AFP.

    The two countries, separated by a narrow 11-kilometer bay, have seen relations deteriorate due to recent U.S. military activities in the region. Persad-Bissessar is one of the few Caribbean leaders openly supporting the U.S. military buildup and its strikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels. Following the first missile strike on September 2, she remarked, ‘Like most people in my country, I’m glad the U.S. Navy is successful in its mission. I have no sympathy for drug traffickers; the U.S. military should kill them all, violently.’

    This stance has clashed with Venezuela’s government, which condemned the U.S. actions as ‘illegal and utterly immoral military threats’ during the United Nations General Assembly. Legal experts warn of potential violations of international law, comparing the strikes to extrajudicial executions. To date, at least 13 attacks have targeted 14 vessels, primarily small boats, resulting in an estimated 57 deaths. The identities and involvement of those killed in drug trafficking remain unconfirmed.

    The declaration of Persad-Bissessar as persona non grata marks the latest escalation in bilateral tensions. Reports suggest Trinidad and Tobago is considering mass deportations of undocumented migrants, many of whom are Venezuelan. This follows Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s suspension of a key gas agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, citing the island’s reception of a U.S. warship as a provocation.

    Maduro accused Persad-Bissessar of transforming her country into ‘an aircraft carrier for the American empire against Venezuela.’ The Pentagon has stationed seven warships, a submarine, drones, and fighter jets in the Caribbean, with an additional warship in the Gulf of Mexico. The intensity of U.S. strikes has increased recently, with six attacks occurring in just one week, extending to the Eastern Pacific near Colombia and Caribbean waters off Venezuela.

    Analysts view these military actions as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to pressure and destabilize Maduro, who was re-elected in 2023 in a vote the U.S. labeled fraudulent. Despite international criticism, Persad-Bissessar continues to support the U.S. actions, emphasizing her preference for drug traffickers to be ‘blown to pieces’ rather than inflict violence in her own country.

  • Dirk Heave benoemd tot directeur Operationele Aangelegenheden bij het SZF

    Dirk Heave benoemd tot directeur Operationele Aangelegenheden bij het SZF

    Dirk Heave has been officially appointed as the Director of Operational Affairs at the State Health Fund (SZF) in Suriname. The announcement was made on Tuesday during an introduction to the staff. With over four decades of experience as both an executive and entrepreneur, Heave brings a wealth of knowledge from both the public and private sectors. His extensive background in organizational development, communication, and business operations makes him a valuable addition to the SZF. Heave has previously held leadership and supervisory roles in various organizations, including the Suriname Housing Foundation, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Suriname Telecommunication Authority, and the Suriname Standards Bureau. His work has primarily focused on policy development, governance, and institutional strengthening. Additionally, Heave has represented Suriname in regional organizations such as the Caribbean Export Development Agency and the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies, where he actively contributed to international cooperation, quality assurance, and sustainable policies aimed at strengthening businesses and attracting investors. Recently, Heave was part of the QuickScan team at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries but has now stepped down from that role due to his new appointment at the SZF. The SZF, which is the largest healthcare purchaser in Suriname, covering over 70% of the population, is entering a period of renewal focused on efficiency, transparency, and customer-centricity.

  • Nek-aan-nekrace bij parlementsverkiezingen in Nederland

    Nek-aan-nekrace bij parlementsverkiezingen in Nederland

    Approximately 13.4 million Dutch citizens are eligible to cast their votes today in the early parliamentary elections for the 150-seat House of Representatives. These elections, triggered by the collapse of the Schoof cabinet in June this year, are being hailed as one of the most unpredictable and consequential in recent history. The outcome will shape the future governance of the Netherlands, influencing critical issues such as migration, purchasing power, housing shortages, climate policy, healthcare, and the nation’s international role within Europe and NATO. Polls indicate a tight race among major parties, including PVV, D66, GroenLinks-PvdA, CDA, and VVD, with many voters still undecided. The complexity of forming a coalition is unprecedented, as no single party is projected to come close to securing the 76-seat majority required in the House of Representatives. High voter turnout is anticipated, driven by a significant number of undecided voters and a widespread belief that “something truly is at stake.” Political analysts suggest that this election could herald a fundamental shift in the country’s direction, depending on the coalition that emerges. Preliminary results are expected late Wednesday evening, with initial projections shortly after polls close at 9:00 PM local time.

  • Gajadien hekelt gebrek aan transparantie bij verkoop obligaties

    Gajadien hekelt gebrek aan transparantie bij verkoop obligaties

    Asis Gajadien, leader of the VHP parliamentary faction, has launched a scathing critique of Suriname’s government over its handling of the recent sale of 7.95% Cash/PIK Notes maturing in 2033. Gajadien asserts that the transaction was executed without adhering to the legal requirements governing the issuance, modification, or repayment of state debt. He emphasizes that all debt operations, whether issuing new bonds or repaying existing ones, must be pre-approved in the National Debt Plan and authorized by a government decree. Gajadien further argues that if repayment is facilitated through new borrowing, such financing must also be included in the Debt Plan beforehand. He deems it unacceptable that these decisions were not discussed with the National Assembly in advance, stressing that transactions impacting public debt should not occur behind closed doors. While acknowledging that the operation could potentially reduce debt if Suriname secures cheaper financing, Gajadien warns of the risks of costlier loans or opaque fees, which could exacerbate the debt burden. The total outstanding amount exceeds USD 693 million, with the tender process in New York concluding today and settlements scheduled for November 4. Gajadien recalls proposals made earlier this year for transparent and structured exploration of such opportunities, which were never acted upon. He criticizes the government’s lack of transparency, which fuels speculation and undermines public trust, and calls for immediate disclosure of transaction details, including amounts, interest rates, and fees. Gajadien warns of requesting an urgent Assembly meeting if the government fails to provide the necessary information, underscoring the importance of transparency in maintaining confidence in Suriname’s debt management.

  • Su Aid wil SRD 10 miljoen ophalen voor hematologische zorg SVZ

    Su Aid wil SRD 10 miljoen ophalen voor hematologische zorg SVZ

    Stichting Su Aid has unveiled its 11th fundraising initiative, aiming to raise SRD 10 million to support the Hematology Department at Sint Vincentius Hospital (SVZ). The department, which treats patients with conditions such as anemia, blood cancer, and sickle cell disease, is in urgent need of renovation, expansion, and modernization. A significant portion of the funds will be allocated to acquiring state-of-the-art medical equipment to enhance the quality of care. The campaign was officially launched during a press conference at SVZ on Tuesday, where Su Aid and the hospital signed a collaboration agreement. The fundraising drive will run from November 3 to December 21, with donations easily made by sending an SMS to 1919, contributing SRD 25 per message. Hematologist Nicole Oldenstam highlighted that the department has already conducted 3,327 treatments this year, compared to 2,538 in 2024. Annually, approximately 150 sickle cell disease patients are admitted, while blood cancer treatments have surged from 75 in 2023 to 265 in 2024 (as of September). To create a safe and dignified care environment, over €200,000 is required. The plans also include constructing specialized rooms for blood cancer patients, allowing them to spend their final days close to their families if necessary.

  • Orkaan Melissa richt verwoesting aan op Jamaica; Caricom spreekt bezorgdheid uit

    Orkaan Melissa richt verwoesting aan op Jamaica; Caricom spreekt bezorgdheid uit

    Hurricane Melissa, an exceptionally powerful Category 5 storm, wreaked havoc on Jamaica this Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. With wind speeds reaching up to 300 kilometers per hour, the hurricane caused severe damage to infrastructure, power grids, and homes. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate as large parts of the island were left without electricity and communication. Authorities reported widespread flooding in coastal areas due to storm surges and dangerously high sea levels. Local media also indicated that hospitals and emergency shelters sustained significant damage, prompting rescue services to declare a humanitarian crisis. Although Melissa has since weakened to a Category 4 hurricane, it remains extremely dangerous and is now moving toward Cuba and the Bahamas, where emergency plans have already been activated. The Caribbean Community (Caricom) expressed deep concern over the situation in Jamaica and emphasized its readiness to coordinate relief efforts. The organization warned that the impact of Melissa could be long-lasting and called for international support for recovery and rebuilding. Meteorological experts have identified Melissa as one of the most severe hurricanes to hit the Caribbean this century, with the full extent of the damage in Jamaica expected to become clearer in the coming days.

  • China pleit voor vrede en dialoog in Palestina en Oekraïne

    China pleit voor vrede en dialoog in Palestina en Oekraïne

    At the 23rd Lanting Forum in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China’s stance on the ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Ukraine, emphasizing the need for peace, dialogue, and international cooperation. Addressing the Middle East situation, Wang Yi welcomed the first-phase agreement regarding the Gaza conflict, which has helped alleviate the humanitarian crisis. However, he cautioned that regional peace remains fragile. China advocates for a sincere, comprehensive, and lasting ceasefire, stressing the importance of Palestinian self-governance and the pursuit of a two-state solution to ensure enduring peace and stability. Recently, China has expressed hope for a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza to further improve the humanitarian situation and reduce regional tensions, underscoring its commitment to supporting Palestinian self-determination and promoting Middle Eastern stability. Regarding the Ukraine crisis, Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s objective and impartial position, highlighting its active support for peace negotiations and willingness to collaborate with the international community to advance peace efforts. In April 2025, China urged the involved parties in the Ukraine war to avoid irresponsible remarks after Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that Chinese citizens were recruited by Russia to fight. China reiterated its neutral stance and dedication to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Wang Yi emphasized the importance of maintaining a world of universal and shared security as a fundamental responsibility of the international community, calling for the avoidance of escalation and the pursuit of peaceful solutions to conflicts.