Suriname Country Report

Suriname, the smallest independent country in South America, is also an outlier in its status as the only former Dutch colonial possession on the continent. While Dutch remains the official language of government, most Surinamese speak Sranan Tongo, an English-based creole. The country does, however, mirror many of its regional neighbors in that it continues to consolidate democracy having endured years of dictatorship. Its main industries are mineral extraction, particularly bauxite, along with a handful of agricultural products and growing oil exports. Tourism is also on the rise due to the amount of undeveloped rainforest within the country's borders.

The greatest risk to those visiting Suriname is that of crime, usually opportunistic but also potentially violent in nature. Those traveling to the interior will also face greatly heightened risks of infrastructural and service-related shortages of almost all varieties.

Suriname has had border disputes with both Guyana and French Guiana but said disagreements do not pose a significant risk of military conflict. Criminal activity is generally opportunistic in nature, with violent crime an important secondary concern. Suriname faces no notable terrorist threat. Protests occasionally occur in the country, but the general level of unrest is moderate.

Air travel is considered safe for travel to and from Suriname, with the exception of travel on Blue Wing Airlines.

The country is limited to a handful of major roads and highways. In general, roads vary greatly in quality.

Ports and ferries are efficient and safe.

Basic services such as water, electricity, and fuel availability are highly reliable in areas along the coast but variable to non-existent in the interior.

Suriname is considered both an unlikely sponsor of and target for cyberattacks, but its defenses against such an attack are considered to be weak.

Suriname has a tropical climate with two dry and two wet seasons, although the coast is often more temperate. There are currently no major manmade hazards in the country, though significant mining operations and weak political institutions bode poorly for the environment. Suriname does not experience earthquakes as frequently as other countries in the region but is still at some risk from seismic activity. Flooding is a significant risk in many parts of the country, and major disasters occur every few years.

Mosquito-borne diseases, including yellow fever, are the major non-routine epidemiological concern in the country. Medical facilities are only adequate in the capital Paramaribo, and generally only serve to address up to moderate health problems. Most major medications can be obtained in some form in Paramaribo, but supplies are limited outside the capital. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

Corruption in Suriname is a notable problem, particularly in government and the public sector. Rule of law is hampered by said corruption in government. Suriname is generally stable though institutionally weak. Sanctions are not a major concern.