Carib Scope

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  • OECS debuts digital dashboard to manage partnerships

    OECS debuts digital dashboard to manage partnerships

    In a significant advancement for regional governance, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission unveiled its groundbreaking Partnership Dashboard on January 8, 2026. This innovative digital platform represents a transformative approach to managing international collaborations across member states, developed through strategic cooperation with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).

    The newly launched dashboard addresses critical governance challenges by centralizing previously fragmented partnership data into an accessible, transparent system. The platform enables real-time monitoring of initiatives, projects, and collaborative engagements, providing unprecedented visibility into the organization’s multilateral operations. This technological solution allows OECS leadership to instantly identify partnership networks, geographical distribution, and strategic objectives across the Eastern Caribbean region.

    OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules emphasized the platform’s fundamental purpose during the launch ceremony: “This initiative transcends mere digitalization—it represents our commitment to operational clarity in an increasingly complex international landscape. By consolidating dispersed information streams, we transition from theoretical cooperation to demonstrable, measurable impact throughout our member states.”

    The development process involved extensive consultation workshops and rigorous technical discussions to ensure the platform meets practical operational needs. Dr. Manuel Otero, outgoing IICA Director General, highlighted the dashboard’s adaptive design philosophy: “We engineered this system with scalability as a core principle, creating a dynamic tool that will evolve alongside the OECS’s expanding requirements. This partnership exemplifies how international cooperation can yield practical solutions for regional development.”

    The launch event also served as a recognition ceremony for Dr. Otero’s contributions to regional cooperation. Both organizations acknowledged the project’s significance in overcoming traditional barriers to collaboration. Senior officials including Ms. Beverly Best (IICA Director of External Relations) and Ms. Nadege Jn Baptiste (OECS Head of Development Cooperation) emphasized how the dashboard demonstrates strategic partnerships’ ability to transcend linguistic, geographical, and institutional divides.

    This innovation has already strengthened OECS’s internal capabilities while promoting bilingual engagement and knowledge-sharing protocols. The platform stands as a testament to how targeted technical cooperation can produce tangible improvements in governance transparency, accountability mechanisms, and ultimately, more effective development outcomes across the Eastern Caribbean region.

  • 198 arrests in cross-border illegal gold mining operation in Guyana, other South American countries- INTERPOL

    198 arrests in cross-border illegal gold mining operation in Guyana, other South American countries- INTERPOL

    In a landmark multinational law enforcement operation, police and prosecutors from Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname have conducted their first coordinated transnational strike against illegal gold mining networks. The operation, dubbed ‘Guyana Shield’ and executed in December 2025, resulted in 198 arrests and significant seizures of contraband across the region.

    Coordinated through INTERPOL with support from the European Union’s EL PACCTO 2.0 program and the Dutch Police’s High Impact Environmental Crime team, the operation deployed over 24,500 checks on vehicles and individuals across remote border areas. Among the most significant apprehensions were three men detained in Guyana on suspicion of gold smuggling and money laundering. The suspects, allegedly connected to a major organized crime group with possible ties to a prominent Guyanese gold exporting firm, were intercepted carrying unprocessed gold and USD 590,000 in cash.

    The operation yielded substantial environmental enforcement breakthroughs, particularly with the seizure of mercury cylinders valued at over USD 60,000 in Guyana and Suriname. The toxic substance, commonly used in illegal mining operations to separate gold from other metals, was discovered concealed within solar panels during transport by bus. Mercury contamination represents a severe ecological and public health threat in the environmentally fragile region.

    Innovative ‘mirror operations’ saw officers from neighboring countries conducting simultaneous checks on opposite banks of border rivers Oyapock and Maroni. These coordinated efforts targeted small riverside stores known to supply mining equipment and facilitate gold smuggling operations. Inspections resulted in the confiscation of counterfeit medicines, alcohol, and cigarettes worth over USD 40,000, marking the first transnational police deployment of its kind in the area.

    Additional seizures included mining equipment such as pumps and gold-trapping mats, firearms, communications devices, and the interception of a bus carrying undocumented migrants. Several minors aboard were suspected victims of child labor or sexual exploitation networks.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza highlighted the global context: ‘The surge in international gold prices in recent years has made illegal gold mining the fastest-growing revenue stream for organized crime groups, including in Latin America. At INTERPOL, we are committed to working with our partners to disrupt those networks and prevent more damage to this remote and environmentally fragile region.’

  • Man dead at Fitts Village, St James

    Man dead at Fitts Village, St James

    Authorities in St James are investigating a fatal incident that occurred in the Fitts Village area, resulting in the death of an adult male. Preliminary reports from law enforcement indicate the victim was working as a public transportation conductor at the time of the incident.

    Barbados Police Service personnel have secured the scene and initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy. While specific details regarding the nature of the incident remain undisclosed, officials have confirmed the presence of law enforcement at the location conducting inquiries.

    The investigation remains in its early stages as detectives work to establish a complete timeline of events and gather forensic evidence. Police authorities have indicated that additional information will be released to the public as the investigation progresses and more facts are established.

    This incident marks another concerning development in the region’s public safety landscape, with transportation workers particularly vulnerable to occupational hazards. The community awaits further clarification from official sources regarding the precise cause and circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

  • Bangladesh: Campagne gestart voor eerste verkiezingen na afzetting Hasina

    Bangladesh: Campagne gestart voor eerste verkiezingen na afzetting Hasina

    Bangladesh stands at a critical democratic crossroads as it prepares for its first national elections since the 2024 uprising that ousted long-serving Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Scheduled for February 12, these elections represent the most significant electoral process in the nation’s history, with profound implications for its political future.

    Interim leader Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate known as “banker to the poor” for his groundbreaking work with Grameen Bank, has committed to overseeing free and fair elections. Returning from exile in August 2024 amid popular demand, Yunus leads a transitional government that has championed comprehensive political reforms through the National Charter of July 2025.

    The reform charter proposes substantial constitutional changes including enhanced presidential powers, term limits for parliament members, and robust anti-corruption measures. While 25 of 52 registered parties have endorsed the charter, its implementation requires a national referendum to achieve constitutional status.

    Notably absent from the electoral landscape is Hasina’s Awami League, barred from participation since May following the suspension of its registration. The 78-year-old former leader, convicted in absentia for crimes against humanity during violent crackdowns on protesters, currently resides in India under political asylum.

    Political dynamics feature Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, emerging as a frontrunner. His campaign launch in Sylhet attracted massive crowds, signaling strong popular support. Simultaneously, a ten-party coalition led by Jamaat-e-Islami seeks to expand its influence, potentially marking a dramatic resurgence for the group that faced severe suppression during Hasina’s administration.

    The electoral process occurs amid concerning challenges including disinformation campaigns that Yunus attributes to both foreign media and domestic sources. These developments coincide with deteriorating relations with neighboring India following Hasina’s flight to the country during the palace storming by protesters.

    With 170 million citizens electing 350 parliamentary representatives, European Union observers have designated this event “the largest democratic process of 2026,” underscoring its global significance and potential to reshape South Asian politics.

  • Knock off Round of Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition kicks off today

    Knock off Round of Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition kicks off today

    The 2026 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition launched its preliminary round on Thursday, January 22nd, initiating the annual intellectual contest that showcases Dominica’s brightest secondary students. Organized by Trudy Christian, the event commenced at the Dominica State College Upper Campus with six institutions debating critical societal issues.

    The opening session featured Orion Academy, Isaiah Thomas Secondary School, Wesley High School, St. Mary’s Academy, Convent High School, and Arthur Waldron Seventh-Day Adventist Academy engaging with the motion: “Local communities should have veto power over projects that significantly affect their environment.” This environmentally-focused debate addressed community rights and environmental governance.

    Friday’s schedule will see Castle Bruce Secondary School, St. Martin Secondary School, and Portsmouth Secondary School debating the proposition: “The legal driving age in Dominica should be lowered to increase youth independence and national productivity.” This discussion will examine transportation policy, youth empowerment, and economic development considerations.

    Competition format mandates that only seven of the nine participating schools will advance to Round Two, where they will challenge defending champions Dominica Grammar School. The selection process prioritizes top-scoring institutions based on argumentation quality, research depth, and presentation skills.

    Event organizer Trudy Christian expressed enthusiasm for both live attendance and digital viewership, noting: “We encourage spectators to join us at the Dominica State College or watch via live stream on Dominica News Online and Emo News.” The afternoon sessions begin at 2:00 PM, offering multiple access points for public engagement.

    Christian extended particular appreciation to primary sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., emphasizing that their sustained support “is vital in fostering youth involvement and promoting meaningful national dialogue.” This sponsorship enables the continuation of a tradition that develops critical thinking and public speaking skills among Dominican youth.

  • ABEC’s officials participate in Global Democracy Conference in India

    ABEC’s officials participate in Global Democracy Conference in India

    Ambassador Arthur G. B. Thomas, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC), alongside Supervisor of Elections Mr. Ian S Hughes, is currently representing the nation at the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) 2026 in New Delhi. The high-level gathering, convened by the Election Commission of India through its India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) and in partnership with International IDEA, commenced on January 21st and will conclude on January 23rd at the Bharat Mandapam convention center.

    This significant international forum has assembled a distinguished cohort of participants, including over 40 Election Management Bodies and delegates from more than 30 countries. The attendee list features diplomats, senior electoral officials, academic experts, and seasoned practitioners, all converging under the conference’s central theme: ‘Democracy for an Inclusive, Peaceful, Resilient and Sustainable World.’ This theme underscores the global imperative to reinforce democratic institutions, ensure electoral integrity, and bolster public trust amid rapidly changing political and technological landscapes.

    Chairman Thomas is scheduled to play a prominent role in the conference’s official program, particularly during the thematic session titled ‘Regulating Media Campaigns’ (Best Practices and Innovation – BP 20) on Friday, January 23rd. His address will confront the mounting challenges presented by the modern information ecosystem, including the proliferation of rapid-fire misinformation, unverified claims, opaque political advertising, and sophisticated manipulation tactics across both traditional and digital media platforms.

    In his presentation, Chairman Thomas will draw upon comparative international experiences and Antigua and Barbuda’s own regulatory framework to articulate fundamental principles for balanced media regulation. These principles encompass ensuring equitable media access, enforcing transparency in political advertising, mandating sponsor disclosure, guaranteeing balanced coverage, and implementing robust safeguards against hate speech and incitement. His discourse will also tackle emerging threats such as artificial intelligence-driven amplification and political microtargeting, while proposing practical, context-sensitive strategies for election management bodies to uphold electoral fairness, foster informed citizen participation, and maintain public confidence.

    The active participation of Antigua and Barbuda in this global dialogue highlights the nation’s steadfast dedication to independent, professional election management and its commitment to democratic governance through international cooperation. This engagement provides a valuable platform to contribute distinctive Caribbean perspectives to the global conversation while absorbing and evaluating worldwide best practices in election administration and democratic innovation.

  • Rest, rebirth and Paris Fashion Week: A Saint Lucian Story

    Rest, rebirth and Paris Fashion Week: A Saint Lucian Story

    In an extraordinary turn of events, Caribbean cultural advocate Petra Baptiste has transformed a planned year of rest into a groundbreaking achievement: an official showcase at Paris Fashion Week. The Saint Lucia-born creative, who initially sought respite from her ambitious pursuits in January 2025, will now present her inaugural collection at Les Salons Hoche on March 2nd under her new fashion house Kai Baptiste.

    Baptiste’s journey to fashion’s most prestigious platform began decades ago when she left Saint Lucia for London at 18, later accepting a spontaneous invitation to Paris where she noticed a significant absence of Caribbean representation. This observation inspired her to establish Island Empress & Emperor, a platform dedicated to highlighting Caribbean creatives—though she never anticipated its evolution into a full-fledged fashion rebirth.

    Despite her multifaceted career as an English teacher, book reviewer, and social media manager, Baptiste consistently felt her creative aspirations remained unfulfilled. ‘I was doing a lot but it wasn’t bringing me joy,’ she confessed to St. Lucia Times. Her attempts to break into fashion had previously stalled due to lacking industry connections.

    The breakthrough emerged from what Baptiste describes as a ‘spiritual stillness’ following her decision to step back from relentless ambition. During a March 2025 fashion show, she casually remarked to a friend about her capability to create runway-worthy designs—a comment she initially dismissed. Seven months later, under identical circumstances, her friend Vilma responded decisively: ‘Stop saying that you can do it, and let’s do it.’ Within an hour, Baptiste received contact details for an industry insider, leading to her official Paris Fashion Week acceptance.

    Her collection represents a profound celebration of Caribbean identity through meticulously crafted costumes that transcend conventional ‘dress and pants’ formats. Drawing inspiration from the ocean, carnival traditions, Saint Lucia’s flower festivals, and Macramé techniques, Baptiste’s designs feature vibrant colors, diverse textures, and materials that authentically reflect Caribbean cultural richness.

    ‘My pieces depict different aspects of what makes the Caribbean the Caribbean and a place so loved,’ Baptiste explained. This milestone has catalyzed an exciting 2026 calendar of confidential projects, all guaranteed to incorporate emblems of Caribbean life and heritage, marking both a personal and professional renaissance for the determined visionary.

  • Guyana to issue chikungunya alert after outbreak in Suriname

    Guyana to issue chikungunya alert after outbreak in Suriname

    Guyana’s health authorities have initiated nationwide preventive measures following confirmation of chikungunya virus cases in neighboring Suriname. Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony announced Wednesday that all medical facilities across Guyana have been placed on high alert to detect potential cases of the mosquito-borne disease.

    The surveillance enhancement comes after Suriname’s Ministry of Health confirmed eight locally transmitted chikungunya cases, with none of the infected individuals having recent international travel history. The cases were verified through comprehensive testing conducted by Suriname’s Central Laboratory of the Bureau for Public Health and the Academic Hospital Paramaribo’s laboratory facilities.

    Dr. Anthony emphasized the robustness of Guyana’s existing disease monitoring framework, noting that healthcare facilities routinely test for dengue fever and subsequently screen for other flu-like illnesses when dengue results return negative. Serum samples are then forwarded to the National Reference Laboratory for advanced Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, which can identify diseases including chikungunya.

    The Health Minister clarified that current weekly surveillance reports show no detected chikungunya cases within Guyana, with the last imported case occurring in October from a Caribbean island.

    Regarding mosquito control efforts, Dr. Anthony detailed that the ministry has trained personnel within neighborhood councils, providing them with equipment and chemicals for fogging operations. While local government bodies, including the Georgetown City Council, maintain primary responsibility for fogging activities, the Health Ministry conducts independent monitoring and supplemental fogging operations.

    This outbreak marks the first significant chikungunya presence in Suriname since the initial 2014 epidemic when the virus first emerged in the Caribbean region. Surinamese health authorities have issued public guidance recommending paracetamol instead of aspirin or ibuprofen for fever and joint pain management, alongside advice for adequate fluid intake, rest, and prompt medical attention if symptoms worsen.

    Health officials in both nations emphasize that chikungunya cannot transmit directly between people and that infection confers lifelong immunity. Public health recommendations include eliminating mosquito breeding sites by removing stagnant water sources around homes and workplaces, wearing protective clothing, and using insect repellent.

  • Natacki Goodwin-Roberts Fined $6,500 for Driving Without Licence or Insurance

    Natacki Goodwin-Roberts Fined $6,500 for Driving Without Licence or Insurance

    A Barbadian woman from Freeman’s Village faces severe financial and legal consequences after being convicted of multiple driving offenses while transporting an infant. Natacki Goodwin-Roberts, 29, admitted guilt to operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license and without proper insurance coverage during a recent court proceeding.

    Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel delivered the judicial ruling, imposing substantial penalties totaling $6,500 in fines. The court mandated complete payment within a strict six-month timeframe. Failure to satisfy the financial penalty will result in significant incarceration terms—nine months imprisonment for the unlicensed driving charge and an additional four-month sentence for the insurance violation.

    The case emerged after law enforcement officials intercepted Goodwin-Roberts during routine traffic monitoring. Authorities noted the particularly concerning circumstance of an infant being present in the vehicle during the unlawful operation, adding gravity to the regulatory violations.

    This judicial decision underscores Barbados’ stringent approach to traffic regulation enforcement, particularly when minor passengers are involved. The dual penalty structure—combining substantial financial consequences with potential imprisonment—demonstrates the legal system’s serious stance on unlicensed and uninsured driving offenses.

  • Cadean Tonge Fined $800 for Dangerous Driving on All Saints Road

    Cadean Tonge Fined $800 for Dangerous Driving on All Saints Road

    A resident of Briggins has been sentenced for reckless driving after executing a perilous overtaking maneuver that put multiple road users at risk. Cadean Tonge appeared in court on Wednesday, where he admitted to charges of dangerous driving on All Saints Road.

    The court heard that Tonge overtook four stationary vehicles and an emergency ambulance in a single dangerous maneuver, creating what police described as a significant hazard to public safety. The incident prompted immediate law enforcement response due to the extreme nature of the violation.

    Magistrates handed down an $800 financial penalty against Tonge, while also issuing a stern warning about the consequences of repeat offenses. The defendant received a substantial reduction in his fine—approximately one-third—for entering an early guilty plea, which the court acknowledged as demonstrating responsibility for his actions.

    The sentencing includes a strict 14-day payment window, after which Tonge faces alternative custodial sentencing of up to 30 days imprisonment for non-payment. Local authorities have emphasized that this case serves as a reminder about the serious consequences of endangering public safety through reckless driving behaviors.