作者: admin

  • Police and military agents are the main perpetrators of femicides in the Dominican Republic

    Police and military agents are the main perpetrators of femicides in the Dominican Republic

    A recent study titled ‘Femicide in the Dominican Republic during 2024: An X-ray of Femicide Violence 2016-2024’ has uncovered alarming trends in gender-based violence. The report reveals that active or inactive members of military institutions and armed forces, including the National Police and the Army of the Dominican Republic, are the primary perpetrators of femicide in the country. In 2024 alone, 73 women were violently killed by 74 men, with the majority of these crimes committed by police officers and military personnel against their partners or ex-partners. Shockingly, 67% of these cases involved the use of service firearms, and 83% of the perpetrators chose to take their own lives with the same weapon after committing the crime. The victims, predominantly aged between 25 and 31, left behind an average of one to four children, resulting in 77 children orphaned in 2024. Over the past nine years, femicides have orphaned 1,072 children, with 524 being children of female victims, 418 of perpetrators, and 130 shared by both. Tragically, 21 children were killed during violent conflicts between their parents. The study highlights the devastating physical and emotional consequences of femicide, particularly on children and adolescents, and underscores the urgent need for systemic change to address this crisis.

  • Nearly three million Dominicans live outside the Dominican Republic. Where are they?

    Nearly three million Dominicans live outside the Dominican Republic. Where are they?

    The Dominican diaspora has grown significantly, with nearly three million Dominicans now residing outside their homeland. According to the 2024 Sociodemographic Registry Report of Dominicans Abroad, published by the Institute of Dominicans Abroad (Index), the total number of Dominicans living abroad has reached 2,874,124. This marks an increase of 27,408 individuals compared to the previous year, reflecting a growth rate of nearly 1%. The registry, updated until December 2024, spans 119 regions, including 95 sovereign states and 24 dependent territories, with new additions such as Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Women constitute the majority of the diaspora, accounting for 53.5% (1,480,252), while men represent 46.5% (1,284,882). The youth demographic, aged 25 or younger, makes up 37.2% of the total, whereas those aged 55 and older account for 19.1%. Geographically, the Americas host the largest share of the diaspora, with 89.9% (2,580,924) of Dominicans residing there, followed by Europe with 10% (288,515). The United States remains the top destination, home to 2,398,009 Dominicans, followed by Spain (201,162), Italy (29,791), Chile (22,836), Canada (22,125), the Netherlands (17,979), and Venezuela (11,399). Other countries with notable Dominican populations include Mexico (10,539), Panama (8,785), France (8,699), the United Kingdom (8,149), Argentina (7,817), and Germany (6,580). Within the United States, New York has the highest concentration of Dominicans (848,560), followed by New Jersey (380,143) and Florida (312,604). In Spain, Madrid (68,448) and Barcelona (40,353) are the primary hubs for the Dominican community.

  • Disaster!  Strong winds in Mao knock down houses and trees

    Disaster! Strong winds in Mao knock down houses and trees

    On Saturday afternoon, a powerful gust of wind swept through the municipality of Mao in Valverde province, Dominican Republic, causing significant damage to homes and uprooting numerous trees. Meteorological analyst Jean Suriel attributed the phenomenon to a trough that had been affecting various regions of the country since early morning, bringing with it rain, lightning, and intense wind gusts. Suriel noted that the wind was so forceful that it tore roofs off several houses and even led to the formation of a funnel cloud, resembling a tornado, during the event. Meanwhile, the Emergency Operations Center (COE) has issued a green alert for the provinces of Samaná, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and Monseñor Nouel, warning of potential flooding in rivers, streams, and ravines, as well as flash floods. The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) predicts a mostly sunny morning for Sunday, with scattered clouds and no significant rainfall. However, conditions are expected to worsen in the afternoon, with increased cloud cover, downpours, thunderstorms, and strong wind gusts forecasted for several provinces, including La Altagracia, El Seibo, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, San José de Ocoa, Santiago, Espaillat, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, San Juan, Barahona, Independencia, Elías Piña, Pedernales, San Cristóbal, and the northern part of Greater Santo Domingo. These adverse weather conditions may persist into the early evening.

  • Four provinces remain on alert The weather will take a turn this Sunday: stable morning and turbulent afternoon

    Four provinces remain on alert The weather will take a turn this Sunday: stable morning and turbulent afternoon

    Sunday’s weather forecast indicates a shift from calm morning conditions to severe afternoon storms across various regions of the country. The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) reported a decrease in rainfall during the early morning hours, with partly cloudy skies prevailing initially. However, as the day progresses, significant changes are anticipated. By evening, cloud development is expected to bring heavy downpours, thunderstorms, and gusty winds to several areas, including La Altagracia, El Seibo, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, San José de Ocoa, Santiago, Espaillat, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, San Juan, Barahona, Independencia, Elías Piña, Pedernales, San Cristóbal, and the northern part of Greater Santo Domingo. These adverse weather conditions are projected to persist into the early night hours. Indomet attributes this weather pattern to the influence of a surface trough and the remnants of a frontal system lingering near the country. In response, Indomet and the Emergency Operations Center (COE) have issued a weather alert, warning of potential urban flooding in Samaná, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and Monseñor Nouel. Residents in affected areas are advised to take precautionary measures.

  • Geen uitweg meer: vermogen publieke personen voortaan onder toezicht

    Geen uitweg meer: vermogen publieke personen voortaan onder toezicht

    Starting November 17, public officials, including politicians, ministers, and members of parliament, will no longer be exempt from declaring their assets and income. This mandate comes as Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath issued a directive to implement the 2023 State Decree, which required only a final date for the availability of the declaration form on the Anti-Corruption Commission’s website. The process of asset declaration can now commence immediately, with a three-month window for compliance. The government has spent nearly two years since 2023 preparing the form for publication. The finalized form marks the starting point for recording the income and assets of public officials. The 2023 State Decree already outlined the rules for completing the form, which underwent revisions after the initial draft was deemed too intrusive for politicians. With acceptable adjustments, the form now allows for the declaration of assets and income. The decree also specifies how updates can be made after the initial registration. Notably, the Anti-Corruption Commission has been renamed the Corruption Prevention Commission (CPC), reflecting its updated mandate and powers. The CPC will not be responsible for protecting whistleblowers who report on public officials’ assets to the Attorney General. A new verification process for declared assets has been introduced, along with an independent investigation for significant increases in wealth. Additionally, a publication requirement has been established. The 2023 State Decree stipulates that asset declarations must be made before a notary, who will keep the completed form sealed. The form can only be transferred to the Attorney General, and after the official’s term ends, the declaration remains with the notary for one year. This measure is part of the 2017 Anti-Corruption Law, which is based on the Inter-American Convention against Corruption by the Organization of American States (OAS).

  • Aandacht voor de gezondheid van de man tijdens Movember**

    Aandacht voor de gezondheid van de man tijdens Movember**

    Men’s health is often overshadowed by societal expectations of strength and resilience, but the reality is stark: men are equally susceptible to illness and often delay seeking medical help. Globally and in Suriname, male health remains an under-discussed issue. To address this, November is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental well-being, through the international campaign known as Movember or No Shave November.

    Movember, a global movement originating in Melbourne, Australia, in 2003, encourages men to grow moustaches throughout November to highlight health issues disproportionately affecting men. The campaign focuses on increasing awareness of prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, suicide prevention, and fundraising for research and improved healthcare for men.

    Prostate cancer, the most common cancer among men globally and in Suriname, is a central theme of Movember. The prostate, a small organ below the bladder, plays a vital role in reproduction by producing seminal fluid. In Suriname, approximately 80 new cases are diagnosed annually, primarily in men over 65, though younger men are also at risk, especially those with a family history of the disease.

    Early detection is critical, as prostate cancer often presents no symptoms initially. Screening methods include a rectal exam and a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test. If abnormalities are detected, further investigations such as MRI scans and biopsies are conducted. Treatment options vary based on the cancer’s stage, ranging from radiation and hormone therapy to chemotherapy.

    While advanced surgical procedures like robot-assisted prostate removal are unavailable in Suriname, the country offers comprehensive care, including specialized urologists, modern diagnostic tools, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. Men over 50 are advised to discuss screening with their doctors, and those with a family history should consider testing from age 45.

    Movember serves as a vital reminder to prioritize men’s health, break taboos, and encourage timely medical intervention. By fostering awareness and proactive healthcare, we can improve the health and quality of life for men in Suriname and beyond.

  • Croix-des-Bouquets : The Haitian National Police (PNH) deals a decisive blow against the «400 Mawozo» gang

    Croix-des-Bouquets : The Haitian National Police (PNH) deals a decisive blow against the «400 Mawozo» gang

    In a landmark operation on November 14, 2025, the Haitian National Police (PNH), in collaboration with the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H), launched a meticulously planned assault against the infamous ‘400 Mawozo’ gang. This criminal organization had entrenched itself along National Road 3 (RN3), fortifying key sections and disrupting public safety. The coordinated strike, driven by precise intelligence, resulted in the seizure of a vast arsenal of weapons and ammunition, significantly weakening the gang’s operational capabilities. Among the confiscated items was an armored bulldozer, a tool the gang used to erect barricades and destroy state infrastructure. Notably, the PNH recovered a .50 caliber American Barrett rifle, a high-precision sniper weapon capable of penetrating steel plates from considerable distances. This weapon had been a centerpiece of the gang’s propaganda. The operation neutralized critical gang resources, marking a turning point in the fight against organized crime in Haiti. Several gang members were killed or wounded, while security forces emerged unscathed. This decisive action underscores the PNH’s growing capacity to dismantle criminal networks and restore order in gang-controlled areas.

  • The Dominican Republic projects to close 2025 with a record 11.7 million visitors

    The Dominican Republic projects to close 2025 with a record 11.7 million visitors

    The Dominican Republic is poised to achieve a historic milestone in tourism, with an anticipated 11.7 million visitors in 2024, marking a record high for the nation. This surge underscores the sector’s critical role as a primary driver of foreign exchange. Tourism Minister David Collado emphasized this achievement, noting its significance despite challenges such as recent storms and air travel disruptions in the United States. In 2023, the country welcomed 11,192,047 tourists, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur). By October 2024, over nine million visitors had already arrived, including 2.1 million via cruise ships. Collado highlighted that these figures exclude tourism from Russia and Ukraine, which previously contributed approximately 500,000 annual visitors. President Luis Abinader announced plans to promote the Pedernales region at the Madrid Tourism Fair (Fitur) in January 2026, aiming to transform it into a second Punta Cana due to its stunning beaches. Additionally, Abinader addressed the issue of tourist misconduct, stating that 99.1% of visitors comply with the law. The government is intensifying efforts to prosecute the remaining 0.9% involved in harmful practices, particularly child sexual exploitation, with notable progress in areas like Sosúa.

  • Insecurity : U.S. Marines exchanged fire with gang members

    Insecurity : U.S. Marines exchanged fire with gang members

    U.S. Marines stationed in Haiti to safeguard the American Embassy were involved in a firefight with suspected gang members earlier this week, according to military officials. The incident, which took place on Thursday evening in Port-au-Prince, saw Marines returning fire after being attacked. Captain Steven Keenan, a Marine Corps spokesperson, confirmed that no Marines were injured during the exchange. Keenan emphasized the Marines’ dedication to protecting U.S. embassies globally, stating they respond to threats with precision and professionalism. The U.S. State Department, Embassy in Haiti, and U.S. Southern Command have yet to comment on the incident. This clash follows heightened security measures implemented at the Embassy last year in response to escalating gang violence. In August, the Embassy announced the arrival of additional Marines to bolster security and support ongoing diplomatic efforts, including collaboration with Haitian police and a multinational security mission. Despite the volatile environment, the Embassy remains operational for emergency services, though it has reported nearby gunfire incidents earlier this year. The State Department had previously evacuated non-essential personnel in March 2024 and issued a travel advisory in July, declaring Haiti in a state of emergency.

  • Dominican Republic shatters record: attracts 9.2 million visitors through October

    Dominican Republic shatters record: attracts 9.2 million visitors through October

    The Dominican Republic has achieved a remarkable milestone in tourism, welcoming 9,283,767 visitors between January and October 2025. This surge in tourism has not only generated 815,000 jobs but also contributed over $15 billion to the nation’s economy. Minister of Tourism David Collado emphasized the profound impact of this growth, stating, ‘What we are presenting is more than statistics; it’s employment and better living conditions for Dominicans.’ Collado highlighted that the tourism sector added $15.562 billion in value, $5.475 billion in net external income, and RD$19.984 billion in taxes, underscoring its significant role in the economy. The period saw 7,168,505 air travelers, marking a 34% increase from 2019 and a 3% rise from the previous year. Additionally, 2,115,262 cruise passengers arrived, a 153% jump from 2019 and a 25% increase from 2023. October alone witnessed 691,073 visitors, with the U.S., Canada, and Argentina being the top contributors. Punta Cana Airport led in arrivals, handling 60% of the traffic. This record-breaking performance underscores tourism’s vital role in the Dominican Republic’s economic and social development.