The Surinamese population in the Netherlands reached 359,800, according to data from Statista, showing a year-on-year increase. This growth reflects the longstanding presence and integration of Surinamese nationals in Dutch society, a relationship deeply rooted in the history between the two countries.
According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), nearly 48 percent of Dutch citizens of Surinamese descent were born in the Netherlands. This demographic trend stems largely from the significant wave of migration that occurred in the 1970s, following Suriname’s independence from the Netherlands in 1975. At that time, close to 40,000 people from Suriname migrated to the Netherlands. Given that Suriname was a former Dutch colony where Dutch remains widely spoken, this linguistic and cultural connection has greatly facilitated the integration of Surinamese into Dutch society.
In addition to the language advantage, other factors have contributed to the successful integration of the Surinamese community. An article from Humanity in Action notes that Surinamese migration to the Netherlands began over 50 years ago. This long-established migration pattern contrasts with the more recent, larger waves of migration seen from Turkish and Moroccan communities to other European countries. Over time, this has led to a more gradual and sustained integration of Surinamese nationals into Dutch society, making them one of the most integrated groups in the country today.