Carib Scope

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  • News : Zapping…

    News : Zapping…

    In a significant move to streamline the processing of Haitian passport applications, the Chancery has announced a reduction in fees. Effective immediately, the cost for an adult passport has been lowered to US$125 from US$170, while minors will now pay US$100, down from US$160. Additionally, emergency or extreme emergency services have been discontinued to ensure a uniform process for all applicants. The updated fee structure is now available on the Embassy of Haiti in the United States’ website.

    In a separate development, eight armored vehicles and over thirty police officers from specialized units of the Haitian National Police (PNH) arrived in Saint-Marc, Artibonite region, on Thursday. This deployment follows a temporary blockade by residents in Pont Sondé. Operations targeting the ‘Gran Grif’ and ‘Korkorat San Ras’ gangs are set to commence once all necessary equipment and personnel are in place.

    Meanwhile, Presidential Advisor Emmanuel Vertilaire has confirmed that the term of the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) will conclude on February 7, 2026, as per the April 3, 2024 agreement. While Vertilaire is prepared to step down, he remains open to continuing his service if a new consensus is reached among stakeholders.

    In the realm of education, the Digicel Foundation has initiated its 195th school construction project at Calvaire Sainte Thérèse in Cap Haïtien. Funded with US$600,000, this project also honors the late artist Michael Benjamin, known as Mikaben, who served as an ambassador for Digicel.

    Additionally, the Embassy of Haiti in Canada will be closed on October 13, 2025, in observance of Thanksgiving, with operations resuming the following day. Similarly, the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, D.C., will be closed on October 13, 2025, for Columbus Day, with regular activities resuming on October 14, 2025.

    In healthcare, the Ministry of Public Health, supported by the United Nations agency for sexual and reproductive health (UNFPA) and the ‘Timama 2’ project, has inaugurated a new operating room at the South Departmental Hospital’s maternity ward. This initiative includes the provision of materials, equipment, supplies, and human resources.

  • 76% of Dominican girls have suffered violence during their childhood and adolescence

    76% of Dominican girls have suffered violence during their childhood and adolescence

    In a compelling address in Santo Domingo, UNICEF has urged for the recognition, protection, and empowerment of girls’ leadership in the Dominican Republic. The organization highlighted the critical need to safeguard their emotional well-being and ensure their right to grow up free from violence and discrimination. Under the global slogan ‘I am the girl, I lead change,’ UNICEF’s representative in the country, Anyoli Sanabria, reiterated the organization’s steadfast commitment to the rights of girls and young women, particularly in environments plagued by gender inequality and structural violence.

    Sanabria emphasized, ‘Girls have the right to grow up without fear, to learn without violence, and to dream without limits. Listening to them and supporting their leadership skills is essential for building a more just and resilient future.’

    Despite higher school attendance and completion rates among Dominican girls compared to boys, they face significant structural barriers that hinder their overall development and mental health. These challenges include teenage pregnancy, early marriage, unpaid domestic work, and high levels of physical, emotional, and sexual violence.

    A UNICEF report on the situation of children and adolescents in the Dominican Republic revealed alarming statistics: 76% of adolescents aged 15 to 17 have been victims of some form of violence, 52.2% report sexual violence, and 45.5% have experienced physical or psychological abuse in the school environment. These figures underscore a normalized reality where violence not only affects girls’ present but also their future opportunities and emotional stability.

    ‘Every girl faces a double burden: she must survive violence while constantly proving her worth. Her physical and emotional integrity and her leadership skills go hand in hand,’ Sanabria added.

    UNICEF also called for increased investment in mental health services tailored to the needs of girls and young women, and for the strengthening of public policies to combat gender-based violence in all its forms.

    ‘Investing in girls means investing in a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous country. They are not only the future, but also the present of the social change we need,’ Sanabria concluded.

  • Traditioneel gezag wil naamswijziging Stoelmanseiland en erkenning grondenrechten

    Traditioneel gezag wil naamswijziging Stoelmanseiland en erkenning grondenrechten

    During the celebration of Maroon Day on October 10, the traditional authority of the Marrons, represented by Captain Johannes Niavai, articulated three significant demands. These include renaming Stoelmanseiland, recognizing land rights for Marrons and Indigenous peoples, and establishing a Marron Cultural Center in Paramaribo. Niavai emphasized the need to rename Stoelmanseiland, currently named after Philip Samuel Stoelman, a commander of the Redi Musu who hunted escaped enslaved individuals. He suggested renaming it after Boni or Boston Bendt, the latter being a Jamaican deportee who joined the Marrons and played a pivotal role in the peace treaties of 1760 and 1762 between the colonial administration and the Marrons. Niavai also urged the government to acknowledge the land rights of Marrons and Indigenous peoples, highlighting the importance of unity in this struggle. Additionally, he advocated for a dedicated cultural center for the Marrons in Paramaribo, similar to Sana Budaya for the Javanese community and the Lalla Rookh building for the Hindustani community. The ceremony at the Square of October 10, 1760, included libations and wreath-laying to commemorate the first peace treaty between the Dutch colonial administration and the escaped enslaved individuals. President Jennifer Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland unveiled a plaque inscribed with the text: ‘Peace concluded with the Marrons behind Auca Dorp Bongodoti between the colonial administration and the runaway slaves. National holiday. Freedom is a right.’

  • FLASH : At least 24 armed attacks in Artibonite in 9 months (investigation report)

    FLASH : At least 24 armed attacks in Artibonite in 9 months (investigation report)

    A recent investigative report by the National Human Rights Defense Network (RNDDH), released on October 9, 2025, has unveiled a disturbing surge in violence in Haiti’s Artibonite department. Between January and September 2025, at least 24 armed attacks and massacres were carried out by notorious gangs, including ‘Kokorat San Ras,’ ‘Gran Grif,’ and ‘Taliban/Mawozo.’ These brutal incidents occurred across 25 localities and cities within eight municipalities, with Petite-Rivière being the most heavily targeted area, suffering eight attacks. The Artibonite region, once hailed as Haiti’s agricultural heartland, has now become a focal point of escalating insecurity and lawlessness. The report highlights daily occurrences of armed clashes, extrajudicial executions, rapes, arson, looting, and mass displacement of citizens. Hundreds of homes were looted or burned, nearly 100 people were killed, and numerous vehicles, including police armored cars, were destroyed or stolen. Additionally, at least six state institutions, such as police stations and magistrates’ courts, were vandalized or set ablaze. The full 25-page report, available for download, provides a comprehensive account of the crisis.

  • Edeeste regularizes more than 22,000 customers and dismantles nearly 8,000 illegal connections

    Edeeste regularizes more than 22,000 customers and dismantles nearly 8,000 illegal connections

    In a significant move to bolster electrical infrastructure and promote responsible energy consumption, the Eastern Electricity Distribution Company (Edeeste) executed a comprehensive technical intervention program across its concession area in September. This initiative, part of the 2025 Strategic Plan for Loss Control and Reduction, successfully normalized services for over 22,000 customers, dismantled approximately 8,000 illegal connections, and integrated more than 4,100 new users into the grid.

  • Guyana reiterates to UN Security Council the Caribbean is a zone of peace

    Guyana reiterates to UN Security Council the Caribbean is a zone of peace

    Guyana’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has reiterated the Caribbean’s commitment to maintaining the region as a ‘zone of peace’ during a UN Security Council meeting on October 10, 2025. While supporting US efforts to combat narco-trafficking, Rodrigues-Birkett emphasized the importance of international cooperation rooted in the rule of law to address drug-related threats. She highlighted Guyana’s launch of an early warning system to detect and respond to emerging drug threats, strengthening both public health and national security frameworks. The ambassador stressed the need for partnerships that respect sovereignty and territorial integrity, underscoring Guyana’s unwavering commitment to non-intervention and peaceful dispute resolution. However, she acknowledged that the region’s peace is increasingly threatened by transnational criminal networks involved in drug and arms trafficking. Rodrigues-Birkett called for collective action to safeguard regional stability and security, urging leaders to act as ‘beacons of peace.’ Her remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Caribbean due to increased US military presence, including the deployment of a nuclear-powered submarine and reconnaissance aircraft, as part of efforts to combat drug cartels. Venezuela, supported by China and Russia, condemned the US actions, accusing Washington of violating sovereignty and escalating regional tensions. The Venezuelan delegate warned of potential armed conflict, while the US defended its operations as necessary to prevent drug trafficking into its borders. The UN has called for de-escalation and adherence to international law to ensure regional peace and security.

  • Economy : «Economic conditions in Haiti remain fragile» dixit FMI

    Economy : «Economic conditions in Haiti remain fragile» dixit FMI

    A recent virtual mission conducted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from September 30 to October 8, 2025, has underscored the fragile economic conditions in Haiti. Led by Mr. Camilo E. Tovar, the mission assessed Haiti’s progress under its Staff-Monitored Program (SMP), an informal agreement designed to monitor economic reforms and pave the way for potential IMF financial assistance. The findings reveal a seventh consecutive year of economic contraction, with inflation soaring at 32 percent year-on-year. Despite these challenges, remittance inflows have surged, bolstering the current account balance and supporting international reserves, which stood at over US$3.1 billion as of July 2025. Fiscal policy remains constrained by security issues and institutional weaknesses, though social spending has increased by 34 percent, aided by IMF support. Public debt is projected to be the lowest in the Latin America and Caribbean region at 12.4 percent of GDP by the end of FY2025. However, risks persist, including gang-related disruptions and potential shifts in international migration and trade policies. On a positive note, the UN Security Council’s authorization of a new multinational Gang Suppression Force could mark a turning point in restoring security and fostering economic growth. The SMP continues to prioritize governance reforms, revenue mobilization, and strengthening the central bank’s policy frameworks. Despite progress, Haiti urgently requires international financial support, preferably in the form of grants, to address its humanitarian and developmental needs and ensure sustainable growth.

  • Ramdien Sardjoe viert 90e verjaardag: ‘Een grote zoon van het land’

    Ramdien Sardjoe viert 90e verjaardag: ‘Een grote zoon van het land’

    Ramdien Sardjoe, a towering figure in Surinamese politics, marked his 90th birthday with an intimate gathering at his home on Friday. The former Vice President, Speaker of the National Assembly, and ex-chairman of the Progressive Reform Party (VHP) is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most influential political leaders. Currently serving as the honorary chairman of the VHP, Sardjoe’s legacy continues to inspire generations. Mahinder Jogi, a current member of the National Assembly, praised Sardjoe as “one of the great sons of the country,” highlighting his lifelong dedication to Suriname and the VHP. Jogi emphasized Sardjoe’s wisdom, calm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to ethical leadership, which have left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape. Known for his bridge-building approach and advocacy for national unity, Sardjoe remains a revered figure among the VHP’s supporters and the broader Surinamese community. As he celebrates this significant milestone, tributes pour in from across the country, honoring his enduring contributions to Suriname’s development.

  • Indomet forecasts very hot temperatures and heavy rains in some regions due to Storm Jerry.

    Indomet forecasts very hot temperatures and heavy rains in some regions due to Storm Jerry.

    The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) has issued a weather forecast for this Saturday, predicting scorching temperatures and scattered showers across various regions. These conditions are attributed to the indirect effects of Tropical Storm Jerry, which is currently active in the Atlantic.

  • Alexia Moonsam uitgeroepen tot beste VOJ-leerling van 2025

    Alexia Moonsam uitgeroepen tot beste VOJ-leerling van 2025

    The Rotary Club of Paramaribo has awarded the prestigious VOJ Student Excellence Award 2025 to Alexia Moonsam from St. Louise School, recognizing her exceptional academic performance, dedication, and leadership qualities. The award ceremony was graced by the presence of Minister of Education, Science, and Culture, Dirk Currie, who urged students to focus not only on academic knowledge but also on character development. Alongside Alexia, Redjinio van Meulen, Eva Vaseur, Jenaysa Mijnals, and Wayne Doekoe were among the top five finalists. Additionally, Dylan Wijnaldum, Amber Asmowidjojo, Metrisha Darnoud, Mercy-Grace Stedenburg, and Roghim Resosetiko received honorable mentions for their achievements. Rotary Club President Anand Gajapersad delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing that education is the cornerstone of personal growth. He encouraged students to strive for excellence, believe in themselves, and appreciate the support of their parents and teachers. Jury Chair Soraya Nanand praised the high caliber of participants and expressed hope to see them at the VOS Student Excellence Awards in the future. Minister Currie highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence, urging students to develop interpersonal skills and resilience. Since 2005, the Rotary Club of Paramaribo has organized the VOJ Student Excellence Award to nurture talent and discipline among youth. This year, the top fifteen students were selected based on their final exam results. During an intensive training weekend, participants received instruction in personal leadership, presentation skills, and artificial intelligence. The ten most promising candidates advanced to the final round, held on October 8, 2025. The Rotary Club aims to continue motivating young talents to excel and realize their full potential through this initiative.