DNA expands nationality rules for diaspora athletes

The amendment to the Wet op het Surinamerschap en Ingezetenschap is intended to remove existing obstacles for elite athletes holding a foreign nationality. This will allow more athletes from the diaspora to compete for Suriname in international competitions and qualifying tournaments.

The private member’s bill was submitted on August 18 by DNA members Ebu Jones, Steven Reyme, Jeffrey Lau and Edgar Sampie. The regulation specifically targets persons of Surinamese descent who are not automatically permitted to compete for Suriname because of nationality rules.

Retaining other nationality

The legislative amendment makes it possible for athletes who meet the stipulated conditions to obtain Surinamese nationality without losing their other nationality. This takes account of international sports rules and the legislation of the countries of which the athletes concerned are already citizens.

During the preparations, the Commissie van Rapporteurs heard various stakeholders. These included the Ministry of Youth Development and Sport, the Directoraat Burgerzaken, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Surinaamse Voetbal Bond, the Surinaamse Atletiek Bond, the Surinaamse Zwem Bond and the Surinaams Olympisch Comité.

Parliament discussed, among other things, the practical implementation, the legal requirements and the role of the institutions involved. Parliamentary Speaker Michael Adhin stressed after the vote that several steps are still needed before the new arrangement can actually enter into force.

Sport as a connecting factor

According to initiator Jones, the legislative amendment is not only about regulations, but also about the unifying power of sport.

“National solidarity becomes visible when Surinamers, regardless of political affiliation, are jointly proud of our national athletes,” Jones said. According to him, sporting achievements show that, despite their mutual differences, Surinamers can stand together behind the national flag.

Several parliamentary groups pointed during the debate to the contribution diaspora athletes have already made to Suriname’s sporting achievements and national unity.

NDP parliamentarian Rabindre Parmessar stated that the commitment of diaspora players has not only produced fine sporting moments, but has also contributed to greater unity in the country.

VHP parliamentary group leader Asiskumar Gajadien stressed the importance of consultation and legal guarantees. He noted that Suriname cannot determine how other countries deal with dual nationality.

Also invest in local talent

PL parliamentary group leader Bronto Somohardjo warned that attracting athletes from the diaspora must not come at the expense of the development of athletes in Suriname.

“The deployment of diaspora athletes must go hand in hand with the structural development of our local athletes,” Somohardjo said.

The NPS, A20, ABOP and BEP also expressed support for the legislative amendment. These parliamentary groups mainly pointed to the opportunities to strengthen the national teams and support Suriname’s international sporting ambitions.

Vice President Gregory Rusland said on behalf of the government that Suriname may be proud of the result achieved. At the same time, he stressed the importance of cooperation in the further implementation of the arrangement.