The Foundation for Information and Development (SWI) was established by notary act on July 30, 1977 in Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname. Among the founders was the late Dr. Frank Martinus Arion, a well known writer from the Dutch Antillese. From the inception, there has been a strong emphasis on sustainability and developing the own potential in the crucial spheres of  culture, nature, health, 

traditional peoples, economy and politics. This has been guaranteed in an interactive environment with public and private stakeholders to ensure the designing and implemenation of innovation, quality and sustainability.

The founding board members thought  it critical to bridge the information gap on development and to produce relevant information on development 

opportunities. The information produced is being 

attuned to our own possibilities, disseminated and finally implemented for development at various levels and spheres. In addition to policy and 

consultancy reports SWI published over 50 books and journals.

SWI distinguishes itself through a national, regional and international focus on producing  information in various areas of culture, economy, health and 

politics from a sustainability perspective. We have committed ourselves to strengthening our position in the Caribbean and establishing our products and services in the region, for the benefit of the wider society.