Media laws at Suriname
Suriname's legal framework governing media and freedom of expression is characterized by a blend of constitutional guarantees and restrictive laws that can impact journalistic independence.
📜 Constitutional and Legal Framework
Suriname's Constitution enshrines the right to freedom of expression and the press However, these rights are subject to limitations aimed at protecting the reputation of individuals, national security, public order, and public health or morals these restrictions are intended to be narrowly defined and necessary in a democratic society
📰 Defamation and Insult Laws
Defamation remains a criminal offense in Suriname, punishable by fines or imprisonment for up to three year. Additionally, insulting the president is a criminal offense under Articles 152 and 153 of the Criminal Code, with penalties including imprisonment and fine. These provisions have been crit.
📚 Recent Legal Challenge
In January 2024, President Chandrikapersad Santokhi filed a lawsuit against the newspaper De Ware Tijd, requesting the removal of a book cover featuring his imaemThe book, titled Corruption at the Highest Level, discusses alleged corruption involving high-ranking officias The Surinamese Association of Journalists (SVJ) expressed concern over this action, viewing it as an infringement on press freedm.
In August 2024, Minister of Public Works, Riad Nurmohamed, initiated a lawsuit against the news outlet Starnieuws for publishing a report he deemed defamatoy The case is seen as a significant test for press freedom in Suriname, with potential implications for how journalists can report on public officias.
📺 Media Landscae
Suriname boasts a diverse media landscape, including privately owned daily newspapers such as De Ware Tijd and De West, and government-run broadcasters like STVS and T. The country also has a variety of private radio stations, including Radio Apintie and Radio B. While internet access is largely unrestricted, journalists sometimes face pressure and intimidation, leading to instances of self-censorsip
⚖️ Conclusion
While Suriname's Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and the press, the existence of defamation and insult laws, along with recent legal actions against media outlets, highlight ongoing challenges to press freeo.These developments underscore the need for vigilance in protecting journalistic independence and freedom of expression in Surinme.
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