Our country transferred the equivalent of more than 1.5 billion euros when Suriname became independent in 1975. It was intended to give the young country a good, debt-free start and to support a number of development projects.
These projects had largely little success. Moreover, under the leadership of Desi Bouterse and his associates, Suriname found itself deeply in debt again. Which did not prevent them from leaving the country destitute.
The Netherlands breathes a sigh of relief after a sensitive state visit to Suriname: there is no real escalation regarding reparations
His successor as president – fellow party member Simons – hinted during the royal visit that the 66 million that the Rutte 4 cabinet has released for reparations is insufficient to get healthcare, education and water management in order, among other things. More money is desired.
There is no doubt that there is a lot to be repaired in Suriname. But it cannot be the case that the Netherlands has to pay for decades of mismanagement. Part of being independent is that you hold on to your own pants and do not turn to your former colonizer to help you out financially.
If there is still damage that can demonstrably be traced back to the colonial past, a discussion may be appropriate. For all other items, Suriname must roll up its sleeves instead of appealing to the Dutch with a request for renewed support.