Suriname’s cultural diversity does not automatically mean that every citizen has equal opportunities. According to Vice President Gregory Rusland, the multicultural society should therefore not only be characterised by mutual respect, but also by equal access to education, employment and public services. He emphasised this on Thursday, October 29, 2026, during the fifth UNESCO Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination in The Hague, the Netherlands.
Rusland pointed during his contribution to Suriname’s special position as a country in which different population groups, religions, languages and traditions coexist. According to him, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence are important foundations of Surinamese society. At the same time, he stated that cultural diversity in itself is insufficient to combat discrimination and social inequality.
The Vice President also reflected on Suriname’s history, which has been shaped by colonialism, slavery, resistance, contract labour and migration. According to him, this historical background plays an important role in understanding contemporary issues of equality and discrimination.
Attention for Indigenous peoples and Maroons in the interior
Rusland called for particular attention to the position of Indigenous and Maroon communities in the interior. He pointed out that geographical distances, language barriers and inadequate infrastructure can hinder access to education, public services and other development opportunities.
According to the Vice President, these circumstances must be permanently taken into account when formulating and implementing government policy. The pursuit of equal opportunities must, according to him, also be visible in daily practice.
Rusland identified three important points of attention. Education must promote more knowledge about Suriname’s different histories. In addition, public services must be accessible and fair to all citizens. He also advocated for policy that is better supported by research, consultation and the direct involvement of the communities for which measures are intended.
Discrimination against the Surinamese diaspora
During the forum, the Vice President also addressed the position of Surinamese people in the Netherlands. According to him, the experiences of people of Surinamese descent with racism and discrimination deserve serious attention.
He stressed the importance of cooperation between governments, diaspora organisations, educational institutions and researchers to identify bottlenecks and develop appropriate solutions.
According to the information provided, participation in the international forum also offers Suriname opportunities to exchange experiences and discuss further cooperation with the Netherlands.
International agreements must produce concrete results
The fifth UNESCO Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination took place on October 29 and 30 at the World Forum in The Hague. Government representatives, policymakers, experts and civil society organisations from various countries gathered to discuss the international approach to racism and discrimination.
The central theme was ‘From Commitment to Accountability: Change the System, Change the Future’. The emphasis was on translating international agreements and policy intentions into measurable results and actual social change.
With his contribution, Rusland stressed that promoting equality must go beyond recognising and valuing cultural differences. According to him, these principles must be translated into concrete policy, so that all population groups can genuinely participate in Suriname’s development.
