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Suriname - Religion

The U.S. government estimates the population at 580,000 (July 2015 estimate). According to the 2012 census, 48 percent of the population is Christian, of which 22 percent is Roman Catholic. Other groups, including Moravian, Lutheran, Dutch Reformed, evangelical Protestant, Baptist, Methodist, Seventh-day Adventist, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), make up the remainder of the Christian population. Hindus are 22 percent of the population, including the Sanathan Dharma and the Arya Dewaker. Muslims, including Sunni and Ahmadi Muslims and the World Islamic Call Society, are 14 percent.

Some Amerindian and Maroon populations, approximately 3 percent of the population, adhere to indigenous religions. Certain Amerindian groups, concentrated principally in the interior and to a lesser extent in coastal areas, practice shamanism through a medicine man (piaiman). Many Maroons worship nature. Those of Amerindian and Maroon origin who identify as Christian often combine Christian practices with indigenous religious customs. Additionally, some Creoles in urban areas worship their ancestors through a rite called wintie.

The remaining 13 percent includes Bahais, Jews, Buddhists, Brahma Kumaris, Society of Krishna Consciousness (Hare Krishnas), and three Rastafarian organizations of the Aya Bingi Order, 12th Tribe, and Bobo Shanti.

There is a correlation between ethnicity and religion. The Hindustani-speaking population is primarily Hindu, while some ethnic Indians, Javanese, and Creoles practice Islam. Christianity crosses all ethnic backgrounds.

The constitution states that everyone has freedom of religion and individuals may not be discriminated against on the grounds of religion. Individuals may choose or change their religion. Any violation can be brought before a court of justice.

Religious groups are not required to register, but must register with the Ministry of Home Affairs if they seek financial support from the government. To register, religious groups must supply contact information, a history of their group, and addresses for houses of worship. Most religious groups are officially registered.

Religious organizations can apply for financial support from the government if they seek a stipend for their clergy or if they have projects “of a moral nature.” The government also pays a stipend to clergy from registered religious groups officiating at weddings.”