Psychedelic Drug Laws in Suriname
Suriname has harsh laws regarding most psychedelics, with penalties as severe as 13 years in prison. While they’re illegal to consume, there are at least four species of wild magic mushrooms native to the country.
Although there is increasing scientific evidence supporting the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, they remain illegal in most parts of the world. Unfortunately, Suriname is no exception and has harsh penalties for possessing or using psychedelic substances.
This article will delve into the legality of various psychedelics — such as magic mushrooms, LSD, DMT, and others — in Suriname.
We’ll also touch on some of the research behind the potential benefits these substances may have.
Summary of Psychedelic Drug Laws in Suriname
- Psychedelics are illegal in Suriname, and penalties are severe.
- One of the only options may be one of the four species of magic mushrooms growing wild.
- Marijuana is illegal in Suriname for recreational and medicinal use.
Are Magic Mushrooms Legal in Suriname?
No, magic mushrooms are not legal in Suriname.
Suriname has one of the harshest drug policies in Latin America. Psilocybin — the main compound of magic mushrooms, is in the most restrictive category on the List of Controlled Substances.
As such, penalties for possessing the compound could go up to 13 years in prison. Although Surinamese law considers psilocybin to be a harmful substance with no medicinal benefits, new studies show this isn’t the case.
Even if the benefits of mushrooms aren’t conclusive, their low level of risk is.
Is LSD Legal in Suriname?
No, LSD is illegal in Suriname. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is a Schedule I controlled substance according to Suriname’s Controlled Substances list.
If the police catch you with this substance, you can spend up to 13 years in jail, depending on the amount. The penalties for trafficking are even worse, ranging from twenty years in prison to life imprisonment.
It’s important to know Surinamese law also covers LSD-analogs like LSZ or 1P-LSD. While the list of analogs isn’t exhaustive, it’s best to avoid these options as the police would likely lump them with whatever popular drug they’re closest to.
Is DMT Legal in Suriname?
No, DMT isn’t legal in Suriname. DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) also belongs to Schedule I, which means Suriname considers it a dangerous substance with no medicinal properties. The law doesn’t make a distinction between 5-MeO-DMT and N,N-DMT — the two most common types of DMT.
This psychedelic is famous for being present in mixtures such as ayahuasca and changa and occurring naturally in the Bufo alvarius toad. Although the country’s law does not mention these, you will likely get in trouble for carrying any form of DMT.
Is MDMA Legal in Suriname?
No, MDMA isn’t legal in Suriname. MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) remains illegal in Suriname, despite being one of the most promising compounds for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Like the substances mentioned above, this psychedelic is in Schedule I of the Surinamese Controlled Substances list. As such, the penalties for possessing MDMA can be up to 13 years in prison.
Is Ketamine Legal in Suriname?
There is no regulation regarding ketamine in Suriname, but it is probably still illegal. Suriname law doesn’t mention ketamine or any other of its related compounds, like arylcyclohexylamines.
However, with the negative view the government takes on the topic, they would likely punish you for using it. To avoid problems with the law, we recommend you don’t partake.
Is Marijuana Legal in Suriname?
Cannabis of all forms is illegal in Suriname, including all derivatives. This means delta 8, delta 9, delta 10 THC, and even CBD.
The law considers cannabis just as dangerous as cocaine or heroin, and it’s classified in the same category. Even if the police catch you with marijuana, you can face up to 13 years in prison.
Key Takeaways: What’s The Future of Psychedelics in Suriname?
The penalties for possessing psychedelics in Suriname are harsh, and there is no sign of change yet. However, as research progresses, local lawmakers may start to consider legalization or decriminalization measures.
Until then, Suriname doesn’t seem interested in changing course on its drug policy. For now, it’s best not to buy psychedelics or bring your own supply when in Suriname.
