Now that the Cabinet is fully constituted, it is high time to shift the focus from individual appointments to the substantive direction of Suriname. Before debating who leads what department, the country deserves to benefit from a clearly developed policy plan that gives direction to the new government's ambitions.
First, an advance policy plan provides future ministers with guidance. Only when the objectives are defined in concrete terms can each minister really commit to implementation. At the same time, it enables citizens and civil society organizations to critically monitor, discuss and, where necessary, adjust the cabinet's priorities.
On the economic front, the emphasis should be on the investment climate and curbing inflation. Structural reforms in taxation and currency policy will be unavoidable in this regard. For sustainable growth, however, it is equally necessary to focus on human capital. Education programs must be designed to equip students and young adults with the skills required by tomorrow's labor market. Renewal of curricula, intensification of teacher training and further digitalization of school facilities are the cornerstones in this regard.
The vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic in the health care system highlight the importance of a comprehensive and preventive approach. Access to basic care, strengthening of hospital infrastructure and a decisive prevention policy should go hand in hand. Only then can the population count on timely and quality care, even in the most remote areas. Moreover, more attention must be paid to social security, so that no one falls between the cracks.
Infrastructure projects should not focus solely on economics, but should be linked to sustainability goals. Better roads and reliable water and electricity supplies are necessary, but the shift to renewable energy sources is at least as urgent. By investing early in climate-proof solutions, Suriname protects its environment and makes itself less dependent on fossil fuels.
The creation of this policy plan does not take place in an ivory tower. Involving the business community, science, civil society organizations and local governments from the beginning creates shared ambitions and broad support. Openness of decision-making and regular progress reports also strengthen society's trust in a focused, coherent and transparent government. Only in this way can Suriname work with vigor and unity on the progress to which its people are entitled.
