Securing and Protecting Land Rights and Other Collective Rights of the Saamaka People of Suriname

Project Overview   

In 2007, after an Inter-American Court of Human Rights’ ruling, Suriname was expected to legally recognise the land rights of the Saamaka People, enforce free prior and informed consent for any activity planned in their lands and stop mining and logging activities in Saamaka territory. This was a historic milestone for Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in Suriname. However, after 17 years since the ruling, Saamaka communities in Suriname are still not legally protected and mining and logging activities have increased four times since then.   

The fast progression of forest degradation in Saamaka lands is posing grave threats to the livelihoods and lands of the Saamaka People. It is also weakening Saamaka traditional governance systems, customary conservation practices, and changing local attitudes, values, and aspirations.  

To address this situation, VSG with Tenure Facility’s support, is working to secure and protect the collective land rights of 15,000 Saamaka Peoples over 450,000 hectares of land. This, in turn will improve Saamaka’s self-determination and the effective protection of their tropical forests, culture and livelihoods.  

To achieve its goal VSG aims to  

1. Strengthen community monitoring systems in Saamaka villages. 

2. Delimit and clarify territorial boundaries. 

3. Strengthen Saamaka governance systems for them to be more resilient, inclusive and adaptative. 

4. Develop strategic partnerships with relevant actors in Suriname to jointly implement the Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruling.