The Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights seeks to abolish the death penalty worldwide and further strengthen the protection of the right to life. By acceding to the protocol, Suriname formally reaffirms its commitment on the international stage to permanently abolish capital punishment.

Suriname ratified the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in 1976, committing itself to align its national legislation with the treaty's provisions. The death penalty was removed from the country's Criminal Code in 2015 and from the Military Criminal Code in 2021. According to the explanatory memorandum accompanying the bill, these legislative changes mean Suriname now fully meets the requirements for accession to the protocol.

During the parliamentary debate, representatives from several political parties welcomed the legislation and underscored the importance of strengthening human rights protections.

National Democratic Party  parliamentary leader Rabindre Parmessar expressed appreciation for the work of the Committee of Rapporteurs and everyone involved in preparing the legislation. He said the protocol's approval marks another significant step in advancing human rights in Suriname and voiced hope that future legislation could also be processed efficiently.

Progressive Reform Party parliamentary leader Asiskumar Gajadien emphasized the importance of cooperation and the efficient handling of legislation. "I would like to thank the various parliamentary factions that contributed to this process. It is encouraging that we were able to complete the deliberations within the planned timeframe and reach a decision together in an efficient manner," Gajadien said.

Stanley Betterson of the General Liberation and Development Party described Suriname's accession to the protocol as an important milestone for human rights. He also called for broader attention to fundamental rights, including the rights of prisoners, stressing that the protection of human rights requires continuous commitment.

A20 parliamentary leader Steven Reyme said the legislation affirms that life should not be taken arbitrarily, even by the State. He praised Suriname's consistent approach toward abolishing the death penalty and strengthening human rights protections.

"With this law, we demonstrate that life cannot simply be taken away, not even by the State. But we should not stop here; protecting human rights also requires that we continue to pay attention to other groups that need our protection and commitment," Reyme said.