Suriname

Country information 

Suriname lies of the North East coast of South America and has a tropical climate. Suriname is 80% tropical rain forest and has approximately 490.000 inhabitants who mainly live on the coast. Dutch is the official language. In addition Sranantongo, Hindi, Javanese, Chinese, Marron and other indigenous languages are spoken.

Partner organization

Institute for Research and Accounting Services  (I-Re-Acct)

On arrival in Suriname MBT provides reintegration support through its partner organization.  Upon arrival the client receives a financial contribution. This sum is not given in cash but is spent under supervision of the partner organization on providing the means necessary for building a sustainable future in Suriname. 

People returning to Suriname with MBT are given support during their reintegration. Returnees have an intake with an I-Re-Acct social worker to determine what assistance they may require. This can be medical, employment, study or income support. For return and reintegration a coordinator and social worker have been employed. The social worker has lived abroad for a number of years and has personal experience of the issues involved. 

Examples of return to Suriname

Ylva

Ylva (not her real name) returned to Paramaribo in 2010 where she was able to move straight in with her family. She was provided with 3000 Euro by IOM because of her medical situation. This money has been used to install an adapted toilet in her home and her room has been made wheelchair friendly. It will be difficult for her to find work. The rest of the money will be used to buy a car for her brother who works as a taxi driver. I-Re-Acct has assisted her in obtaining insurance and medicines. Ylva is satisfied with her current situation in Paramaribo, as the tropical climate eases her symptoms. She also has a bigger network of friends and family in Paramaribo. Her brother is able to provide some income. Ylva is concerned about the medical care available in Paramaribo; waiting lists are often very long. She worries that she may not always be able to access the care she requires.

Shiela

Shiela (not her real name) returned to Paramaribo in 2007. She had lived in the Netherlands for many years and experienced psychological problems after returning. I-Re-Acct has organized adequate psychological help.  After extensive help Shiela was able to start studying.  She is following a teacher training course. Her study has been partially financed by MBT.  She also found a part-time job. In the beginning she lived with friends but she now rents her own room in the centre of Paramaribo close to her study and job. Shiela indicates that the period after her return was extremely difficult, but that she is now glad to be back in Paramaribo. Rebuilding her life without the support of a partner or family has given her self-confidence.  She is happy with her study and looks forward to being a teacher.  

Contact

Eva van Gestel, 030-7551580, e.vgestel@maatwerkbijterugkeer.nl