Suriname to grant 15% wage increase to civil servants

Surinamese Minister of Home Affairs Marinus Bee has confirmed that civil servants will receive a total wage increase of 15% by the end of September 2026. Bee clarified that the increase will be granted in full at once, refuting claims that the payment would be split into a 10% installment in September and a 5% installment in October. The minister noted that the council proposal has been approved and the necessary documents have been signed by both himself and the Minister of Finance.

While the 15% increase is set, negotiations regarding broader labor conditions are ongoing. A technical committee comprising representatives from both the government and trade unions will be formed to develop additional proposals within the next three months.

Labor leader Ronald Hooghart has criticized the 15% increase, arguing it does not sufficiently address the daily needs and financial struggles of civil servants. Hooghart expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the newly proposed joint working group and questioned the government's decision to categorize civil servants into different strategic groups rather than applying a principle of equality.