A Revolution of Minds | Leadership in Suriname

By Danny Lo-Fo-Sang (2005)

Introduction

In 2005, Danny Lo-Fo-Sang delivered a thought-provoking speech titled “Leiderschap in Suriname: ‘A Revolution of Minds’.” The speech critically examined the state of leadership in Suriname, highlighting the need for radical changes to adapt to the challenges of globalization and modern economic realities. Almost two decades later, it is pertinent to assess the validity of his observations and recommendations in the context of present-day Suriname.

Summary of the Speech

Lo-Fo-Sang’s speech centers around several key themes:

1. Outdated Leadership Models

The author argues that Suriname’s leadership is out of sync with the modern, globalized world. He cites reports suggesting that existing leaders are unable to form effective alliances or address the country’s pressing demands.

2. Leadership Values

Emphasizing the importance of focusing on leadership values, he poses three critical questions:

? Why do we need to focus on leadership values?

? Which values will lead us to a sustainable community?

? How can these values be translated into action?

3. Globalization and Marginalization

The speech warns that without adapting to globalization, Suriname risks becoming irrelevant in the global economy. He notes that the country is engaged in limited markets and produces basic commodities with diminishing global significance.

4. Economic Challenges

Lo-Fo-Sang critiques the reliance on outdated economic models, particularly the “Industrialization by Invitation” strategy from the 1950s and 1960s, which failed to produce sustainable growth.

5. Cultural Factors

He discusses how cultural resistance to change, hierarchical structures, and a lack of innovation hinder Suriname’s development.

6. Clientelism and Patronage Networks

The speech highlights the prevalence of clientelism, where political and economic relationships are dominated by patronage networks, stifling entrepreneurship and innovation.

7. Call for New Leadership

Lo-Fo-Sang advocates for a new generation of leaders who embody values such as creativity, professionalism, competence, responsibility, and integrity.

Validity in Present-Day Suriname

Many of the issues highlighted in Lo-Fo-Sang’s 2005 speech remain relevant in Suriname today.

Below is an analysis of each key theme in the context of current developments:

1. Outdated Leadership Models

? Continuity of Challenges: Suriname has experienced changes in political leadership since 2005, but challenges related to governance, effective policymaking, and coalition-building persist.

? Political Instability: Frequent shifts in government and fragile political alliances have sometimes hampered long-term planning and consistent policy implementation.

2. Leadership Values

? Emphasis on Integrity: There is an increasing public demand for transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in Suriname.

? Youth Engagement: Programs aimed at developing young leaders and promoting civic participation have gained momentum, aligning with Lo-Fo-Sang’s call to enhance the knowledge and skills of emerging leaders.

3. Globalization and Marginalization

? Economic Vulnerability: Suriname’s economy remains heavily reliant on the export of natural resources like gold and oil. Fluctuations in global commodity prices continue to impact the country’s economic stability.

? Need for Diversification: Efforts to diversify the economy have been limited, making the nation susceptible to external economic shocks.

4. Economic Challenges

? Outdated Economic Models: The country still grapples with transitioning from traditional economic models to more sustainable and diversified strategies.

? Infrastructure and Investment: Inadequate infrastructure and a lack of significant foreign investment hinder economic development.

5. Cultural Factors

? Resistance to Change: Hierarchical structures and a preference for maintaining the status quo can impede innovation and adaptability.

? Education System: Reforms in education to promote critical thinking, creativity, and technological skills are needed but have been slow to implement.

6. Clientelism and Patronage Networks

? Corruption Concerns: Reports from organizations like Transparency International indicate ongoing issues with corruption and nepotism, affecting public trust and the effectiveness of institutions.

? Economic Inequality: Patronage networks contribute to economic disparities, limiting opportunities for broad-based economic participation.

7. Call for New Leadership

? Emerging Leaders: There is a growing cohort of civic-minded individuals and organizations advocating for change, transparency, and social justice.

? Civil Society Engagement: Non-governmental organizations and community groups are increasingly active in promoting good governance and accountability.

Additional Considerations

? Technological Advancement: While technology has advanced globally, Suriname’s integration into the digital economy is progressing but still lags behind regional peers.

? Environmental Challenges: Issues such as deforestation and the environmental impacts of mining have become more prominent, requiring responsible leadership to balance economic and environmental concerns.

? Global Health Crises: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for resilient healthcare systems and effective crisis management, testing the capacities of current leadership structures.

Conclusion

Danny Lo-Fo-Sang’s 2005 speech remains significantly valid in the context of present-day Suriname. The challenges of outdated leadership models, economic vulnerability, cultural resistance to change, and the detrimental effects of clientelism continue to impede the nation’s development.

For Suriname to navigate the complexities of the modern world and achieve sustainable growth, the following steps are essential:

1. Leadership Transformation: Embracing leadership that is visionary, ethical, and committed to the common good.

2. Economic Diversification: Investing in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and technology to reduce dependence on natural resources.

3. Educational Reform: Overhauling the education system to foster innovation, critical thinking, and adaptability among the youth.

4. Combating Corruption: Strengthening institutions to promote transparency and accountability, thereby restoring public trust.

5. Cultural Shift: Encouraging a culture that values individual initiative, creativity, and openness to change.

6. Community Engagement: Fostering collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society to address social and economic challenges collectively.

Final Thoughts

The “revolution of minds” that Lo-Fo-Sang advocated for is an ongoing process. While some progress has been made, much work remains to align Suriname’s leadership and societal values with the demands of the 21st century. By acknowledging past shortcomings and actively pursuing transformative change, Suriname can aspire to a future marked by prosperity, equity, and resilience.

Quote to Inspire Action

“Walls will not protect you

So build on higher ground

Let the gate swing open

Know your neighbors well

Cross the mighty river

And hear the angels sing”

— Mark Gerzon

Call to Action

As Lo-Fo-Sang concluded in his speech, the responsibility lies with each individual—especially the emerging leaders—to take the initiative. By keeping values high and striving for excellence, the envisioned transformation becomes attainable.

Thank you for your attention. Keep the values high!