The recent meeting between the President and our traditional leaders is an important step. The leaders have jointly decided to reject the proposed 5 km law in its current form. In doing so, they demonstrate that the interests of our communities come first. This gives us hope and confidence.
The reasons are clear:
- A fixed 5-kilometer boundary does not do justice to our actual residential and living areas, which we use for hunting, fishing, agriculture, and the preservation of our culture.
- Communities must be able to determine the size of their territory themselves, with respect for their traditions and sacred places.
- The leaders want to return to their communities before a final decision is made. This shows that the voice of the community is central.
After years of empty promises, trust in the government is low. Nevertheless, the President is still given the benefit of the doubt. That trust must now be translated into action. The government can take immediate steps by:
- halting concessions for logging and gold mining in residential and living areas;
- better enforcing existing laws against illegal activities;
- working towards legislation that recognizes the collective rights of indigenous and tribal peoples.
The Association of Saamaka Communities (VSG) and Kampos fully support the positions of the traditional leaders. Together, we remain committed to the legal recognition of our land rights, in accordance with international rulings such as the Saramaka ruling and the Kaliña and Lokono rulings.
Our leaders have shown that they are ready to stand up for the rights of their people. Now it is up to the government not only to talk, but also to act.