Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • COMMENTARY: What Price Are You Willing To Pay For A US Visa

    COMMENTARY: What Price Are You Willing To Pay For A US Visa

    By Yves Ephraim

    CARIBBEAN NATION CONFRONTS DILEMMA BETWEEN VISA PRIVILEGES AND NATIONAL IDENTITY

    Beyond the substantial financial costs of US visa applications—typically exceeding $185 plus travel expenses to Barbados—lies a more profound consideration: what intangible national assets might be sacrificed in pursuit of visa convenience? This examination probes the complex trade-offs between access to American travel and the preservation of fundamental national principles.

    The core debate centers on four essential pillars of sovereignty. Birthright encompasses the authority to reject becoming a refugee processing center for foreign nations. Freedom involves protecting citizen biometrics from foreign surveillance programs without reciprocal data access. Dignity reflects the ability to conduct international relations without succumbing to coercive diplomacy. Sovereignty represents the ultimate right to refuse policies contrary to national interests.

    While US visa privileges undoubtedly provide practical advantages, this analysis questions the catastrophic assumptions surrounding potential visa restrictions. Should the United States implement comprehensive travel bans against Antiguans and Barbudans—a scenario not entirely hypothetical—would societal collapse inevitably follow? Or would alternative travel partnerships and strengthened regional alliances emerge?

    The psychological dimension reveals deeper concerns: does visa anxiety reflect what cultural icons have termed ‘mental enslavement’ or diplomatic Stockholm syndrome? This provocative inquiry challenges citizens to examine their attachment to US travel permissions.

    The ultimate question remains: are citizens prepared to endure potential economic hardships to safeguard national sovereignty? This decision transcends individual travel convenience, representing a collective determination about national direction. Unlike historical forced migrations, contemporary societies possess agency in determining their international relationships.

    The concluding choice presents two stark alternatives: comfortable compliance with external demands or resilient independence despite challenges. This sovereign decision requires courageous sacrifice and will ultimately define the nation’s geopolitical trajectory for generations.

  • Co-op Bank: Annual Shareholders’ Meeting on 29 Jan 2026

    Co-op Bank: Annual Shareholders’ Meeting on 29 Jan 2026

    The Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited has officially announced its upcoming Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, with advanced registration required through a dedicated Zoom platform. The banking institution has directed shareholders to complete their registration via the official link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/649HqU4_Tl6enYFkqsj82w.

    In a notable disclaimer, NOW Grenada media outlet has clarified its non-responsibility for opinions, statements, or media content presented by contributors during the meeting. The publication has additionally implemented an abuse reporting mechanism, encouraging users to ‘click here to report’ any concerning content.

    The meeting announcement carries significant tags including ‘agm,’ ‘annual general meeting,’ ‘dividend,’ and references to Tanya Lambert, suggesting key leadership participation and potential dividend discussions. The digital approach to shareholder engagement reflects contemporary trends in corporate governance and financial institution operations within the Caribbean banking sector.

    This development represents the bank’s continued commitment to transparent shareholder communication and modernized corporate practices, potentially setting precedents for regional financial institutions in their annual reporting and stakeholder engagement methodologies.

  • LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Balancing diplomacy and reality – Dominica’s refugee decision under scrutiny

    LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Balancing diplomacy and reality – Dominica’s refugee decision under scrutiny

    Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit’s controversial decision to accept third-country refugees from the United States has ignited intense national debate, balancing diplomatic calculations against domestic practicalities. The arrangement, presented as a strategic move to strengthen bilateral relations with Washington, aims to safeguard Dominican citizens’ access to American travel, education, and employment opportunities while implementing stringent security protocols.

    The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures and legal experts who question both the procedural and substantive implications. Prominent attorney Cabral Douglas highlights the absence of parliamentary approval, characterizing the bypass as a concerning erosion of democratic sovereignty. The United Progressive Party has amplified these concerns, citing insufficient public consultation and potential strains on the nation’s housing infrastructure, job market, and social services.

    Beyond the sovereignty questions, practical implementation challenges loom large. The arrangement lacks transparent details regarding security vetting procedures, financial support mechanisms, and resource allocation for refugee integration. Economic analysts note that Dominica’s limited capacity necessitates substantial U.S. support across housing, healthcare, and education sectors to prevent overwhelming domestic systems.

    The geopolitical context reveals additional layers to the decision, with observers noting the timing follows recent U.S. visa restrictions that potentially threatened Dominican interests. While the humanitarian dimension remains undeniable, the success of this initiative hinges on robust security safeguards, transparent governance, and verifiable commitment of American resources. Ultimately, this delicate balancing act between international diplomacy, humanitarian responsibility, and domestic capability will test the Skerrit administration’s ability to protect national interests while honoring global commitments.

  • Tribute to Lissa Joseph, who has died aged 43

    Tribute to Lissa Joseph, who has died aged 43

    The media community in Saint Lucia is grieving the profound loss of Vanessa ‘Lissa’ Joseph, who passed away on January 6, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness. Remembered as both exceptionally talented and deeply cherished, Joseph’s legacy spans nearly two decades of transformative contributions to Caribbean journalism.

    Her remarkable journey began at Corinth Secondary School, where even as a student she demonstrated extraordinary eloquence and command of the English language that signaled her future in media. Joseph launched her distinguished career through Radio Saint Lucia’s Youth Talk programme, quickly establishing herself as a multifaceted talent in feature presentation, documentary narration, and commercial voice work.

    Her professional trajectory included significant tenures with multiple prominent media houses—DBS, Calabash TV, Hot 7 TV, and the Government Information Service (GIS). Colleagues recall her unwavering dedication to the profession even during her health challenges, with her passion for journalism remaining undiminished throughout her struggles.

    In 2021, Joseph returned to DBS Television with renewed vigor, displaying the same characteristic smile, humility, and humor that had become her trademarks. Beyond her on-air presence, she was recognized for her thoughtful advocacy for media development in Saint Lucia, consistently pushing for improvements in professional standards and support for emerging journalists.

    Her final public appearance occurred at the Sandals Media brunch on November 29, 2025, where she actively participated in discussions about bridging generational gaps within the media industry. Alongside prominent figures including Judy Deterville and Earl Bousquet, Joseph helped shape conversations about fostering growth and supporting younger practitioners in the field.

    The news of her passing, delivered against the backdrop of these recent collaborative efforts, has sent shockwaves through the media community. Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes describing her as kind, respectful, sincere, humble, brave, strong, jovial, and profoundly professional.

    Born on October 25, 1982, Joseph is survived by her immediate family and her mother, who remained constantly at her bedside during her final hospitalization and described her daughter as her best friend and confidant. Her passing leaves a significant void not only within media circles but also among the countless Saint Lucians who connected with her through her groundbreaking work.

  • Today marks the anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Pierre Charles

    Today marks the anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Pierre Charles

    The Commonwealth of Dominica observes the twentieth anniversary of the passing of former Prime Minister Pierre Charles, who led the nation from 2000 until his untimely death on January 6, 2004. Charles, who represented the Grand Bay constituency as Member of Parliament for nearly two decades, passed away following a cabinet meeting after battling a chronic heart condition.

    Charles’ ascent to the premiership occurred under tragic circumstances when he succeeded Prime Minister Roosevelt Douglas, who had died suddenly in office just three years prior. This marked the second consecutive instance of a sitting prime minister dying while in service, creating a period of significant political transition for the Caribbean nation.

    His political career began with an appointment to the Senate at the remarkably young age of 25 in 1979. After entering electoral politics, Charles secured his parliamentary seat in 1985 as a member of the Dominica Labour Party (DLP), maintaining this position for fifteen consecutive years despite his party being in opposition.

    When the DLP formed a coalition government with the Dominica Freedom Party in 2000, Charles assumed the portfolio of Minister for Public Works and Communications. During Prime Minister Douglas’s eight-month tenure, Charles frequently served as acting Prime Minister, demonstrating his readiness for national leadership.

    Following Douglas’s sudden passing in October 2000, Charles seamlessly transitioned into the role of Prime Minister. Despite undergoing angioplasty surgery in February 2003 and requiring medical leave—during which Osborne Riviere acted as Prime Minister—Charles continued governing until his final day.

    Before entering politics, the Grand Bay native pursued education at Dominica Grammar School and St. Mary’s Academy, followed by teacher’s college. He worked as an educator and community organizer, developing the grassroots connections that would later define his political approach.

  • Should Belize’s BPO Sector Be Unionised?

    Should Belize’s BPO Sector Be Unionised?

    The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has launched a significant initiative to organize workers within the nation’s rapidly expanding Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. This movement, spearheaded by Ashley Longford, Director of the Young Vanguard, centers on safeguarding the rights of predominantly young employees who dominate this sector.

    Longford characterized unionization as a fundamental objective for NTUCB, highlighting concerning workplace conditions where employees frequently experience isolation and lack adequate representation. She revealed that many workers metaphorically describe their situation as resembling ‘modern-day slavery,’ emphasizing the urgent need for structural protections.

    Demographic analysis shows Belize’s BPO workforce consists primarily of individuals aged 18-30, with many transitioning directly from secondary education into these positions. This vulnerability prompts concerns about potential exploitation. The Young Vanguard initiative aims to educate these young workers about their legal protections and labor rights under Belizean law.

    According to Longford, formal union representation would empower employees through collective bargaining capabilities and establish crucial accountability mechanisms for employers. This would theoretically reduce fears of unjust termination or mistreatment while promoting more equitable working environments.

    The NTUCB has scheduled preliminary discussions with BPO management representatives for early 2026, intending to facilitate dialogue about mutual benefits. Longford frames this development as a potential ‘win-win’ scenario—enhancing worker security while simultaneously creating more stable and productive operational frameworks for employers.

    This organizing effort represents a critical juncture for Belize’s evolving economic landscape, where balancing business growth with worker protections remains paramount.

  • PM complains about media workers virtually attending news conferences

    PM complains about media workers virtually attending news conferences

    Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada has publicly addressed the conspicuous absence of journalists at physical press conferences, attributing the trend to a lingering ‘long Covid’ effect on media engagement practices. During an exclusive interview on the Grenada Broadcasting Network (GBN), the Prime Minister revealed his perplexity at frequently arriving at designated venues only to find empty rooms, with the sole presence being cameras from the Government Information Service (GIS).

    The phenomenon, which Mitchell colloquially termed ‘long Covid,’ reflects a sustained preference for virtual participation that originated during the pandemic’s peak in 2020. Since assuming office in June 2022, the Prime Minister has maintained a hybrid approach to media briefings, offering both in-person and virtual attendance options. However, he noted that most journalists have consistently chosen the remote option, creating what he described as a disconnect in direct government-media interaction.

    Mitchell’s administration has demonstrated particular commitment to public communication during crises, having conducted an impressive 19 news conferences following Hurricane Beryl in 2024 to keep citizens informed about recovery operations. Despite this accessibility, the Prime Minister expressed frustration that media professionals often claim they receive ‘too much information’ during briefings and require additional time to process the content before formulating questions.

    The government’s transition to virtual press conferences began as a necessary adaptation during the Covid-19 pandemic through GIS coordination. This digital approach has persisted as a standard practice, with many journalists continuing to favor remote access despite the restoration of in-person opportunities. Mitchell emphasized his willingness to maintain regular briefings—whether weekly or post-Cabinet—but stressed that meaningful engagement requires physical media presence, noting that he cannot ‘do their work for them.’

    Complementing press conferences, the Prime Minister highlighted his accessibility through regular appearances on radio programs, where he and government officials address public inquiries and provide project updates. While acknowledging room for improvement in government-media relations, Mitchell reaffirmed his commitment to transparency through whatever communication channels prove most effective.

  • Nominations Open January 6 for the 2025 Antigua & Barbuda National Music Awards

    Nominations Open January 6 for the 2025 Antigua & Barbuda National Music Awards

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda has officially launched the nomination process for its prestigious 2025 National Music Awards (ABNMA), with submissions opening January 6, 2026. The Ministry of Creative Industries, through its Department of Culture, announced the commencement of the awards’ second edition, which will culminate in a grand ceremony on February 26, 2026, in St. John’s.

    This national initiative serves as the country’s premier platform for honoring exceptional achievements across the musical landscape. The awards recognize diverse contributors including performers, composers, educators, media specialists, producers, and cultural advocates who have significantly enriched the twin-island state’s musical heritage and entertainment sector.

    The 2025 edition introduces a substantially expanded awards framework designed to encompass a broader spectrum of creative and industry contributions. The comprehensive categories now include:

    – MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR honors covering instrumental excellence, steelpan performance, and vocal artistry across genres including Soca, Calypso, Reggae/Dancehall, and Gospel
    – Producer and Songwriter recognition awards
    – People’s Choice categories for Best Recording Artist, Band & DJ, Song & Sound, and Events
    – Emerging artist development awards including the Ricardo Drue Foundation Award for musicians aged 25 and under
    – Special Recognition Awards for individuals and organizations with over a decade of contribution
    – Lifetime Achievement Award honoring those with 20+ years of significant national impact

    The nomination process emphasizes accessibility and transparency, offering both online and in-person submission options through the Ministry of Creative Industries headquarters on Old Parham Road. The program welcomes nominations from the public, provided they have the nominee’s permission, ensuring both accuracy and willingness to participate.

    Nominees are encouraged to prepare comprehensive submission packages including tailored biographies, professional images, project summaries, and other supporting materials that demonstrate their qualifications for specific award categories. Detailed guidelines for each category will accompany the official nomination forms.

    This expanded awards framework reflects the nation’s deepening commitment to celebrating artistic excellence while simultaneously fostering innovation, education, cultural preservation, and industry development. The ABNMA continues to evolve as a unifying cultural force that inspires emerging creatives, showcases national talent, and enriches Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural identity on the global stage.

  • BLP candidate shift ‘strategic recalibration’ ahead of possible poll, says analyst

    BLP candidate shift ‘strategic recalibration’ ahead of possible poll, says analyst

    Political analyst Devaron Bruce has identified the Barbados Labour Party’s (BLP) decision to replace St Michael Central MP Arthur Holder as a strategic maneuver indicating potential early general elections. The party’s selection of attorney Tyra Trotman as the replacement candidate, despite her previous affiliation with the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), suggests a significant political recalibration.

    Bruce characterized the development as “curious” yet strategically coherent, noting that Trotman carries endorsements from both outgoing MP Holder and Prime Minister Mia Mottley. However, the unexpected emergence of business executive Dr. Lynette Holder as a contender has introduced complexity to the candidate selection process.

    The political scientist acknowledged potential internal friction due to Trotman’s previous role as president of the Young Democrats before switching allegiances. Bruce emphasized that despite her brief DLP association, Trotman never held elected office or government membership, having distanced herself from the DLP’s political trajectory.

    Bruce suggested the BLP leadership prioritizes political potential over longstanding party loyalty, potentially creating tensions among veteran members who may feel overlooked. The analyst dismissed anticipated criticism from the DLP as lacking credibility, noting that their own political leader had previously switched parties and won election twice on a BLP ticket.

    The recent nomination activities across multiple constituencies, including St Thomas and St Joseph, strongly indicate impending elections. This assessment was echoed by DLP Senator Andre Worrell, who questioned the timing of candidate changes and suggested internal disunity within the governing party.

    These developments reflect broader political realignments in Barbados, with parties positioning themselves for potential electoral contests through strategic candidate placements and coalition-building efforts.

  • Cuba honors 32 soldiers killed in aggression against Venezuela

    Cuba honors 32 soldiers killed in aggression against Venezuela

    Cuba has issued a formal condemnation of what it describes as an act of ‘state terrorism’ following a lethal assault that resulted in the deaths of numerous Cuban military and intelligence personnel stationed in Venezuela. The deceased, comprising officers from both the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) and the Ministry of the Interior (Minint), were present in the South American nation under a bilateral security and defense cooperation agreement, responding to an official request from the Venezuelan government.

    The extensive list of casualties includes high-ranking officers such as Colonels Humberto Alfonso Roca Sánchez (67) and Lazaro Evangelio Rodriguez Rodriguez (62), alongside several majors and captains. The attack also claimed the lives of numerous lieutenants and first officers, including Lieutenant Colonel Orlando Osoria Lopez (45) and First Officer Giorki Verdecia García (30). Additionally, reserve soldiers and non-commissioned staff were among the victims, highlighting the significant loss experienced by Cuba’s security apparatus.

    The Cuban government has explicitly attributed responsibility for this escalation to Washington, condemning the United States for promoting military and political actions that threaten the sovereignty and stability of Venezuela. This incident represents a severe deterioration in the already tense relations between Cuba and the United States, potentially signaling a new phase of confrontation in the Caribbean region with far-reaching implications for international diplomacy and regional security arrangements.