Director of Culture Xiomara Simons recently stated this in a conversation with the Communicatie Dienst Suriname (CDS). According to her, it is necessary to restore and strengthen cooperation between the government and the cultural sector. In recent times, a gap is said to have emerged between the directorate and various cultural organisations.
Since taking office in December 2025, Simons has been holding talks with representatives from different cultural disciplines and communities. Through this, she wants to increase the sector’s involvement and ensure that future policy better reflects the needs of society. “The communities and the culture bearers are the ones who can provide information and help guide policy. They must therefore be explicitly involved in the process,” Simons said.
Krutus must form the basis for new policy
An important part of the new approach is the organisation of krutus, in which cultural organisations, communities and other stakeholders consult with one another. These meetings are to start in mid-2027.
The outcomes of these discussions must be incorporated into a policy document setting out the priorities and objectives for Suriname’s cultural development. Work is also being done on a long-term vision towards 2030 and 2035.
More attention for young people and heritage education
In addition to strengthening cooperation with cultural organisations, the directorate wants to pay more attention to young people. According to Simons, art, culture and heritage education play an important role in the development of one’s own identity and sense of citizenship.
The directorate therefore wants to encourage young people’s involvement in cultural activities in neighbourhoods and communities. This should not only increase interest in culture, but also promote the transfer of cultural knowledge, traditions and values to future generations.
Possible cultural fund with revenue from oil sector
According to Simons, financing cultural activities and projects is a major challenge. The directorate is therefore exploring opportunities to tap additional sources of funding through partnerships.
One of the options under consideration is the establishment of a Surinamese cultural fund. The possibility of using future revenues from the oil and gas sector for the development and protection of culture and heritage is also being examined.
For now, this is a possibility that requires further study. No concrete decisions have yet been announced regarding the financing, structure and size of such a fund. Simons is calling on society to actively participate in the development of the new cultural policy. “Help think along, take part. Take action. Let us work together to ensure that our heritage, our values and norms are preserved,” the Director of Culture said.
