From November 18 until November 28, the photo exhibition 1975–2025: 50 Years of Independence of Suriname can be seen at the Atrium City Hall.

On November 25, 2025, Suriname will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its independence. On this day in 1975, Suriname—then still a Dutch colony—became a sovereign state. The independence came after years of political and social unrest, but was ultimately achieved through diplomatic negotiations between the Dutch government and Surinamese political leaders, under the leadership of President Johan Ferrier.

The transition to independence was not without challenges. Suriname faced economic difficulties, the task of building a new national identity, and the integration of diverse ethnic groups. Political instability continued, including a military coup in 1980 that ushered in a turbulent period.

Reflection and a Look Ahead to Suriname’s Future
In the past decades, Suriname has slowly developed, but continues to face challenges in areas such as the economy, political stability, and social equality. Nevertheless, it has preserved its cultural richness and remains an important country in the Caribbean region. The 50th anniversary is a moment of reflection and forward-looking toward the future of Suriname.

With the upcoming 50 years of independence, the organizing body Stichting Atlas Cultureel Centrum aims to present a rich and multifaceted program. This includes a book, a traveling photo exhibition, educational programs, lectures, dialogue sessions, workshops, and more. Together, they seek to keep the heritage of the Surinamese community alive and to serve as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Initiator Sahin Yildirim of Stichting Atlas Cultureel Centrum:
“Those who do not honor the past lose the future. Those who destroy their roots cannot grow.”

The great cultural diversity of today’s Netherlands is historically rooted. The identities and urban cultures of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague are closely intertwined with a history of migration. This is reflected in how people live, family life, language use, and social-cultural diversity. The organizing body Atlas Cultureel Centrum wishes to organize various activities in The Hague as part of the 50 Years of Surinamese Independence and, through these, offer equal opportunities to residents, support the city’s development, and create a platform to bring different communities together, promote dialogue, and foster new encounters.

The project 50 Years of Independence of Suriname includes:

• Traveling Photo Exhibition 1975–2025: 50 Years of Independence of Suriname
• Book 50 Years of Independence of Suriname
• Educational programs (Primary, Secondary, and Vocational Education)
• Lectures and dialogue sessions
• Documentary in collaboration with broadcaster NTR
• The book 50 Years of Independence of Suriname

Book 50 Years of Independence of Suriname
To make this unique project a success, Atlas Cultureel Centrum will publish the book 50 Years of Independence of Suriname. Everyone can help. Each book order brings the organization one step closer to realizing the project. After the book launch on the afternoon of Wednesday, November 19, 2025 in the Atrium City Hall, signed copies will be sent to buyers. Interested parties can order the book via the website: 50jaaronafhankelijkheidvansuriname.nl.

Project Group 50 Years of Independence of Suriname
To ensure the success of the activities surrounding 50 years of independence and to connect various communities, an Advisory Board has been established. This board consists of Astrid Echteld MPC, Jane Kuldipsingh, Hans Zuiver (MSc), and Drs. Johanna S. Rambaran. In addition to the involved partners, this group provides full support to the organizing body Stichting Atlas Cultureel Centrum. Atlas Cultureel Centrum previously exhibited the photo exhibition 1964 – Turks in the Netherlands at the Atrium City Hall in November 2024.

For more information, please go to atlascultureelcentrum.nl.