Participate and contribute to the solution - International Day of the Migrant

Every year, on December 18, the International Day of the Migrant is celebrated. The goal is to honor migrants, stand up for their rights, and encourage the international community to collectively harness the positive power of migration. 

Throughout history, people have always been on the move and will undoubtedly continue to be so in the future.   

On this International Migrant Day, IOM highlights the potential role of migration as a solution to global challenges, drawing on the momentum generated by recent conversations on International Migration and COP28. 

These include adapting to the impacts of climate change and providing improved economic opportunities for communities. "We highlight how our collective actions today can prepare us for the challenges of tomorrow." 

IOM in Suriname 

IOM's arrival in Suriname follows the increased focus on migration in the Caribbean. Suriname is one of 175 IOM member states that are both countries of origin, destination and transit for migrants.  

Suriname is also one of the IOM member states that can be categorized as diverse, multicultural and multi-racial "nations of immigrants," societies in which many newcomers from abroad live.   

 

"Because of its relatively small population, less than 600,000 inhabitants, many of whom are no longer in their home countries, Suriname experiences real challenges in dealing with the many demands of migration" explains Jan-Willem Wegdam, IOM's senior representative in the country. 

"These demands arise from migration flows in three categories - from, to and through Suriname. Whether it is the welcoming of new migrants to Suriname, the departure of its own citizens, or the transit of third-country migrants through its territory, it is inevitable that the government and other stakeholders in Suriname need the world's help in all these efforts. IOM wants to help in this regard". 

Suriname and migration  

The Surinamese government established an inter-ministerial commission on Oct. 27, 2023. The main task of this commission is to cooperate with international and national partners in the field of migration, with the goal of drafting and monitoring the National Migration Policy Plan for Suriname. 

IOM Suriname and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation have already undertaken several activities to promote awareness, cooperation and support. This also contributes to the goals of Suriname and the Sustainable Development Goals, with the core idea of leaving no one behind.