Suriname

The National Flag of Suriname

The national flag of Suriname is a powerful symbol of the nation’s independence, unity, and cultural diversity. The flag of Suriname consists of five horizontal bands: green, white, red, white, and green. A large yellow five-pointed star is centered within the red band. Each element of the flag holds significant meaning, reflecting the history and values of Suriname.

Suriname Flag Clip Art Images, Background and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Suriname Flag Image

To download an image of the Suriname flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the Suriname Flag

The Suriname flag features a design that is rich in symbolism and meaning:

• Green Bands: The green bands at the top and bottom represent the country’s agricultural wealth and natural resources.
• Red Band: The central red band symbolizes progress and love, representing the nation’s struggle for independence and its vibrant spirit.
• White Bands: The two white bands signify peace and justice, reflecting Suriname’s commitment to harmony and equality among its diverse population.
• Yellow Star: The large yellow five-pointed star at the center represents national unity and a bright future for Suriname. The star’s five points stand for the main ethnic groups living in Suriname.

The Origins and Design of the Suriname Flag

The flag of Suriname has a rich history that reflects the nation’s journey toward independence and unity. The design of the flag was officially adopted on November 25, 1975, coinciding with Suriname’s independence from the Netherlands. The Suriname flag is a symbol of the nation’s ideals and serves as a constant reminder of the values it upholds.

The Birth of a National Symbol

The Suriname flag was created to represent the newly independent nation and its diverse population. The design features colors and symbols that embody the country’s natural wealth, its commitment to peace and justice, and the unity of its people.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the Suriname flag is deeply connected to the country’s history and aspirations:

• Green: Represents the lush natural landscape and the country’s agricultural prosperity.
• Red: Symbolizes the sacrifice and courage of the people in their fight for independence.
• White: Signifies peace and the just nature of the nation’s governance.
• Yellow: Embodies the hope and future prosperity of the nation, as well as the unity among its people.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the Suriname flag include the star and the bands:

• Star: The five-pointed yellow star symbolizes the unity of Suriname’s diverse population and their shared commitment to the nation’s future.
• Bands: The green, red, and white bands represent the country’s natural resources, the struggle for independence, and the pursuit of peace and justice.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The current design of the Suriname flag was officially adopted on November 25, 1975, the day Suriname gained independence from Dutch colonial rule. The flag is a powerful representation of the country’s identity and aspirations.

The Flag in Modern Surinamese Identity

Today, the Suriname flag is a symbol of national pride and unity. It is prominently displayed during national holidays, such as Independence Day, and during official ceremonies. The flag is also honored in schools, government institutions, and by Surinamese people living abroad, serving as a reminder of the nation’s history, cultural heritage, and commitment to peace and progress.

The Significance of the Suriname Flag

The flag of Suriname holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the rich history, culture, and unity of the nation. Displaying the Suriname flag is an act of patriotism and respect, and it is done according to specific rules and on designated days that hold special meaning for the country.

When the Flag of Suriname Can Be Displayed

The flag of Suriname may be displayed on any day, but there are specific guidelines for when and how it should be presented. The flag should always be treated with the utmost respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It can be flown on public buildings, in schools, at military institutions, and during official ceremonies. Citizens are also encouraged to display the flag at their homes during national holidays and important commemorations.

Flag Days and National Holidays

In Suriname, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:

• November 25 – Independence Day: This is the most important national holiday in Suriname, marking the country’s independence from Dutch rule in 1975. The flag is central to the celebrations, with parades, cultural events, and patriotic displays nationwide.
• August 9 – Indigenous Peoples Day: This day honors the indigenous communities of Suriname, and the flag is displayed to celebrate the cultural heritage and contributions of these communities.
• July 1 – Keti Koti (Emancipation Day): This day commemorates the abolition of slavery in Suriname in 1863. The flag is flown to honor the freedom and resilience of the ancestors who fought for liberation.

Love for the Flag and Patriotism

The Suriname flag is not just a national symbol; it is a representation of the pride and love that Surinamese people have for their country. The flag’s design—green, white, red, and a yellow star—embodies the nation’s history, unity, and enduring spirit. Surinamese people demonstrate their love for the flag and their patriotism in various ways. During national holidays, particularly on Independence Day, the flag is everywhere—from homes and public spaces to clothing and decorations. Schools instill a sense of respect for the flag from a young age, often including flag ceremonies as part of the daily routine.

Suriname Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1F8 U+1F1F7
• UTF-16: D83C DDF8 D83C DDF7

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇸🇷
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇸🇷

3. CSS

content: "\1F1F8\1F1F7";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const surinameFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF8\uD83C\uDDF7";

// Java Example
String surinameFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF8\uD83C\uDDF7";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$surinameFlag = "\u{1F1F8}\u{1F1F7}";

// Ruby Example
suriname_flag = "\u{1F1F8}\u{1F1F7}"

6. Perl

my $surinameFlag = "\x{1F1F8}\x{1F1F7}";

7. Python

suriname_flag = "\U0001F1F8\U0001F1F7"

8. C#

string surinameFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF8\uD83C\uDDF7";

9. Swift

let surinameFlag = "\u{1F1F8}\u{1F1F7}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *surinameFlag = @"\U0001F1F8\U0001F1F7";

11. JSON

{
  "surinameFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF8\uD83C\uDDF7"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF8\uD83C\uDDF7');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

suriname_flag=$'\U1F1F8\U1F1F7'

14. Go (Golang)

surinameFlag := "\U0001F1F8\U0001F1F7"

15. Kotlin

val surinameFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF8\uD83C\uDDF7"

About Suriname

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Suriname is located on the northeastern coast of South America, bordered by Brazil to the south, Guyana to the west, French Guiana to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the north. The diverse geography of Suriname includes:

• Extensive rainforests covering around 80% of the country
• The Guiana Shield, one of the oldest geological formations in the world
• Rivers such as the Suriname River, Marowijne River, and Corantijn River
• A coastal plain with mangrove swamps and sandy beaches
• The Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Suriname Map

Area and Population

Suriname covers an area of approximately 163,821 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest countries in South America by land area. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 600,000 people, making it one of the least populous countries in the region.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

Suriname is known for its diverse population, often described as a melting pot of cultures. The ethnic composition includes:

• East Indians (Hindustani): approximately 27% of the population
• Maroons (descendants of escaped enslaved Africans): around 21%
• Creoles (people of African and European descent): about 16%
• Javanese: roughly 15%
• Smaller populations of Indigenous peoples, Chinese, Europeans, and others

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Suriname”

The name “Suriname” is believed to have originated from the indigenous Surinen people who inhabited the region before European colonization. The area was colonized by the Dutch in the 17th century, becoming an official Dutch colony in 1667.

History

The history of Suriname is rich and diverse, shaped by its indigenous roots, European colonization, and African, Asian, and other influences. Key historical events include:

• The arrival of European settlers and the establishment of sugar plantations worked by enslaved Africans
• The abolition of slavery in 1863 and the subsequent arrival of indentured laborers from India, Indonesia, and China
• Independence from the Netherlands on November 25, 1975
• A period of military rule in the 1980s and a return to democracy in the 1990s

Government and Politics

Capital

Paramaribo is the capital of Suriname. As the seat of the government, it is home to important institutions like the Presidential Palace, the National Assembly, and the Court of Justice.

Government and Politics

Suriname operates as a constitutional democracy. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, led by the President; the legislative, consisting of the National Assembly; and the judicial, headed by the Supreme Court. Suriname has a multi-party system with several active political parties.

Values and Culture

Core Surinamese values include community, diversity, and respect for multicultural heritage. Suriname is known for its harmonious coexistence of various ethnic groups, each contributing to the nation’s cultural mosaic.

Religion

Suriname is religiously diverse, with Christianity being the predominant faith, practiced by about 50% of the population. Other religions, such as Hinduism, Islam, and various indigenous beliefs, are also represented.

Holidays

Major public holidays in Suriname include:

• Independence Day on November 25
• Pagwa (Holi), a Hindu festival celebrated in spring
• Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, observed by Muslims
• Christmas, celebrated widely across the country

Demographics and Society

Language

The official language of Suriname is Dutch, spoken by the majority of the population. Sranan Tongo, an English-based creole, is widely spoken as a lingua franca. Other languages include Hindi, Javanese, and various indigenous languages.

Society and Sports

Suriname is a socially diverse nation with a strong emphasis on community and culture. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport, followed by basketball and cricket. The country has produced internationally recognized athletes, particularly in track and field.

Safety

Safety in Suriname varies by region. While most areas are safe for residents and tourists, petty crime can occur in urban areas. The Surinamese government works on improving public safety and law enforcement.

Economy and Currency

Economy

Suriname has a mixed economy, driven by natural resources and agriculture. Key sectors include:

• Mining, particularly gold and bauxite
• Agriculture, including rice, bananas, and timber
• Oil exploration and production
• Fisheries and forestry

The economy is heavily influenced by both exports and foreign investment.

Currency

The official currency of Suriname is the Surinamese Dollar (SRD), symbolized by “SRD” and subdivided into 100 cents.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

Surinamese culture is a blend of various influences, with significant contributions to music, dance, and art. The country is known for its kaseko music, traditional dances, and vibrant festivals celebrating its multicultural heritage.

Cuisine

Surinamese cuisine is diverse, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage. Key elements include:

• Roti, a popular dish with Indian influences, served with curried chicken, potatoes, and vegetables
• Pom, a traditional Surinamese dish made from tayer root and meat
• Saoto soup, a Javanese chicken soup with rice and various condiments

Suriname is also known for its street food and unique blends of flavors from different cultures.

National Anthem

The national anthem of Suriname, “God zij met ons Suriname” (“God Be With Our Suriname”), reflects the nation’s unity and diversity. The lyrics emphasize love for the country and its people.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Suriname has a developing transportation network, including roads, river ferries, and airports. The capital, Paramaribo, and other major cities are connected by highways, while the interior is often accessed by boat or small aircraft.

Time Zone

Suriname operates in the Suriname Time Zone (SRT), which is UTC-3.

Web and Phone Code

Suriname’s internet country code is “.sr,” and its international dialing code is +597.

Suriname: Things to See and Do

Suriname is a country of lush rainforests, vibrant cities, and rich cultural history, offering unique experiences for travelers. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Suriname:

Explore Nature Reserves

Suriname is home to some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world.

• Central Suriname Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its untouched rainforest, diverse wildlife, and the Raleighvallen waterfalls.
• Brownsberg Nature Park: Located near Brokopondo Reservoir, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
• Galibi Nature Reserve: Known for its nesting sea turtles and rich birdlife, located near the Marowijne River.

Enjoy Beautiful Beaches

Suriname has a unique coastal area with scenic beaches and mangrove forests.

• White Beach: A popular man-made beach near Paramaribo, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
• Braamspunt: A natural beach and turtle nesting site located near the mouth of the Suriname River.

Savor the Cuisine

Experience the diverse culinary landscape of Suriname, from street food to traditional dishes. Must-try foods include:

• Roti: A traditional dish with Indian influences, served with curried chicken or vegetables.
• Pom: A popular casserole made with grated tayer root and chicken.
• Bara: A type of savory fried dough with Indian roots, often served with spicy sauces.

Explore Paramaribo

Suriname’s capital city is known for its Dutch colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

• Historic Inner City of Paramaribo: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved colonial buildings and the famous wooden St. Peter and Paul Cathedral.
• Fort Zeelandia: A historic fort dating back to the 17th century, now a museum showcasing Suriname’s history.

Visit Cultural Sites

Suriname has a rich cultural heritage, with various sites reflecting its diverse history.

• Jodensavanne: A historic Jewish settlement with ruins of a synagogue and cemetery, reflecting the early Jewish presence in Suriname.
• Commewijne River: An area known for its historic plantations and scenic boat tours.

Participate in Cultural Festivals

Suriname hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating its diversity.

• Owru Yari: The New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring fireworks, music, and street parties across Paramaribo.
• Divali: The Hindu festival of lights, celebrated with vibrant displays and traditional rituals.

Experience River Adventures

The rivers of Suriname offer incredible opportunities for exploration and adventure.

• Kayaking on the Suriname River: Experience the natural beauty of Suriname from the water, paddling through serene landscapes.
• Fishing on the Marowijne River: Known for its rich fish populations, it’s a popular spot for local and tourist anglers alike.