In remarks delivered in Paramaribo at the invitation of the Central Bank of Suriname, De Nederlandsche Bank's Olaf Sleijpen argued that central bank independence must be continually earned and defended. Legal safeguards are a first line of defense, but independence also depends on policymakers resisting external pressure, operating within their mandates and maintaining public trust through effective performance, transparency and accountability. Sleijpen highlighted the importance of an independent Central Bank of Suriname as the country prepares for expected oil revenues. With inflation having fallen from 60% in 2021 to 10%, he said stronger central bank credibility could help reduce inflation further at a lower cost to output. He also urged Suriname to direct oil revenues primarily toward strengthening the economy's long-term growth capacity, warning that excessive consumption spending could fuel inflation, currency appreciation and lost competitiveness.
2026-08-21De Nederlandsche Bank
De Nederlandsche Bank's Olaf Sleijpen calls for renewed defense of central bank independence as Suriname prepares for oil revenues
De Nederlandsche Bank's Olaf Sleijpen said central bank independence requires legal protection, institutional resolve, transparency and accountability. He highlighted its importance for Suriname as inflation falls and expected oil revenues create risks of overheating, urging the country to prioritize long-term productive capacity.