The Republic of Suriname, more commonly known as Suriname or Surinam, (formerly known as Netherlands Guiana and Dutch Guiana) is a country in northern South America, in between French Guiana to the east and Guyana to the west. The southern border is shared with Brazil and the northern border is the Atlantic coast. The most southern parts of the borders with Guyana and French Guiana are disputed (upper Corantijn and Marowijne rivers—the map shows the Guyana and French Guiana versions of the border).
Suriname is a democracy based on the 1987 constitution. The government's legislative branch is the National Assembly, consisting of 51 members. These members are elected every five years.
The National Assembly elects the head of the executive branch, the president, by a two-third majority. If no candidate achieves such a majority, the president is elected by the People's Assembly, a 869 member institute consisting of the National Assembly and regional representatives.
Suriname is a full & participating member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Suriname is the smallest independent country in South America. It is situated on the Guiana Shield and part of Caribbean South America. The country can be divided into two main geographic regions. The northern, lowland coastal area (roughly above the line Albina-Paranam-Wageningen) has been cultivated, and most of the population lives here. The southern part consists of tropical rainforest and sparsely inhabited savanna along the border with Brazil, covering about 80% of Suriname's land surface.
Due to the mix of population groups, the Surinamese culture is very diverse.
Things you should know when travelling to Suriname
Violent and petty crime occurs in Paramaribo and outlying areas. Pickpocketing and robbery are common in the capital, especially in major business and shopping districts. Foreigners are favourite targets. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times. Do not show signs of affluence. Avoid walking alone after dark outside the immediate vicinity of major hotels. Theft from vehicles occurs. Banditry and lawlessness are a problem in the cities of Albina and Moengo, and along the East-West Highway between Paramaribo and Albina. The Palm Garden, or "Palmentuin," in the Dutch area of Paramaribo should be avoided after dark due to the lack of police presence. Illicit activities take place in the area. Police response, especially at night, is rare for all but the most serious crimes. Police presence outside Paramaribo is scarce. Local police can be reached at 115, fire at 491 111, and ambulance services at 113.
Demonstrations, protests, marches, and strikes, some violent, may occur at any time in the capital, throughout the country and on main highways. Local transportation services can be disrupted. Roadblocks may occur on main roads at any time and often cause traffic disruptions. Canadians should not attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended.
Because of the unpredictable nature of these demonstrations and the potential for violence, Canadians in or travelling to Suriname should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and monitor local news reports.
