Following the importance of the migrant flow of Haitian origin and a complaint from France, Suriname has made it mandatory on August 26 a Visa for Haitians which will come into force on 15 September.

Recall that the French Government through its Embassy in Suriname, by diplomatic courier had complained that Haitian migrants passed through Suriname to join in large number of French Guiana to seek asylum. If the decision of Suriname, satisfies the French Government, it adds by con an obstacle to free movement within the countries of Caricom.

According to statistics, more than half of the passengers of the company Insel Air, which the Suriname, is of Haitian origin. A March 2016 report showed that the tourist map, supposed to attract more businessmen and tourists, had rather facilitated the task of smugglers of migrants. The Suriname International Airport was assaulted by Haitians who did not speak English and for the most part, could neither read nor write (over 6,000). Some were unable to provide the authorization documents for children who accompanied them or held false documents. It is partly for these reasons that 500 Haitians were returned to Haiti.

Moreover, airlines had to file their full lists of passengers to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Suriname. Passengers on these lists will be entitled to a tourist card. All other persons from Haiti, with a ticket for a trip to Suriname, after 15 September 2016 will have to be in possession of a visa.

SL/ HaitiLibre