Today, Suriname became the latest country to do so, electing its first female president, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, a 71-year-old doctor and member of parliament. Her election comes on the cusp of the country celebrating 50 years of independence from the Netherlands. Yet at the same time our nation is presented with one of the greatest economic challenges in recent history. The parliament backed Geerlings-Simons to lead the nation, which has been struggling under the weight of debt and reduced subsidies.
Suriname was one of the first Latin American countries to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative back in 2019. Today, it seeks to improve its long-term economic prospects by establishing deeper connections with China. The government is counting on a nascent oil boom to deliver a desperately needed jolt. Meanwhile, Suriname is projected to start pumping new offshore oil by 2028, something officials say will fuel economic recovery.
As Geerlings-Simons assumes her leadership role, she’ll have a big challenge waiting for her. She urgently needs to stabilize state finances, as the whole country continues to contend with a $400 million annual debt servicing repayment. It surprises many that his birthplace, Suriname, ranks as one of the continent’s poorest nations. Its citizens are rightfully tired of this new normal of economic malaise. The legacy of the outgoing president, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, is riddled with corruption scandals and brutal austerity measures.
Her running mate, and current State Representative Gregory Rusland, will stand beside her in this promise. Together, they hope to bring that new era to Suriname. The new administration is keen to leverage the economic potential of oil riches. Simultaneously, they are trying to innovate to meet the greatest needs of their people.
“I am aware that the heavy task I have taken on is further aggravated by the fact that I am the first woman to serve the country in this position,” – Jennifer Geerlings-Simons
Suriname’s rich ethnic tapestry includes descendants of Africans, Indigenous groups, Indians, Indonesians, Chinese, and Dutch settlers, which adds to the nation’s unique cultural identity. As Geerlings-Simons walks into her new office, her government will have to bring together these different groups, while catering to their different socio-economic concerns.
Suriname’s rich ethnic tapestry includes descendants of Africans, Indigenous groups, Indians, Indonesians, Chinese, and Dutch settlers, which adds to the nation’s unique cultural identity. As Geerlings-Simons takes office, her government will need to unify these diverse groups while addressing their socio-economic needs.
