Carib Scope

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  • Plan International presents results of “Down To Zero” child protection project

    Plan International presents results of “Down To Zero” child protection project

    After more than ten years of dedicated intervention, Plan International’s groundbreaking Down To Zero initiative has concluded its operations in the Dominican Republic, establishing a robust child-protection framework across 14 high-risk communities in the nation’s southern region. The comprehensive program specifically targeted areas severely impacted by tourism development and heightened social mobility, which have historically contributed to increased vulnerabilities.

    The project achieved remarkable reach, directly impacting over 650 individuals across the provinces of Azua, Elías Piña, San Juan, Pedernales, and Barahona. Its prevention strategy centered on community empowerment, training 100 adolescents as prevention promoters and equipping 153 local leaders with skills to activate reporting and response mechanisms. Institutional capabilities were significantly enhanced through the engagement of 90 public and private sector representatives who collaborated on developing standardized case management protocols.

    A cornerstone of the initiative involved confronting the cultural normalization of sexual exploitation through 24 distinct educational interventions. These included community film screenings and structured dialogues designed to break longstanding silences surrounding exploitation while building sustainable local capacity.

    Project coordinator Luis Toledo emphasized the transformative outcomes, stating, ‘Today we witness more conscious communities, youth spearheading prevention initiatives, and local systems significantly better prepared to address cases effectively.’ He identified the establishment of self-sustaining protective ecosystems as the program’s most profound accomplishment.

    Plan International, with over 35 years of operational presence in the Dominican Republic and outreach across 120 communities, has reaffirmed its institutional commitment to fostering secure and equitable environments for the nation’s children and adolescents. The concluding ceremonies, held February 17 in Barahona and February 19 in San Juan de la Maguana, marked the formal transition of protection responsibilities to strengthened local institutions.

  • Environment : 553 Earthquakes Recorded in Haiti in 2025

    Environment : 553 Earthquakes Recorded in Haiti in 2025

    Haiti’s seismic landscape experienced significant activity throughout 2025, with national monitoring agencies documenting 553 distinct earthquakes across the Caribbean nation. According to the comprehensive report jointly released by the Ministry of the Environment, the Bureau of Mines and Energy, and the Technical Unit of Seismology, this figure represents a 12% decrease from the 628 tremors recorded in the previous year.

    The seismic data, compiled from both local monitoring networks (Ayiti-séismes and UTS) and regional systems across Cuba, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, reveals intriguing patterns in earthquake distribution and intensity. The monthly average reached 46 earthquakes, with May and August emerging as the most seismically active months—each recording 60 distinct events.

    Magnitude readings spanned from 0.2 to 4.2 on the Richter scale, with the overwhelming majority (90.9% or 503 earthquakes) registering at magnitude 3.0 or below—categorized as very minor tremors. Approximately 9% (50 earthquakes) measured between 3.1 and 4.2, falling into the minor to slight classification. The most powerful event, a magnitude 4.2 earthquake, occurred on August 23 off the coast of Jean Rabel in the Northwest region.

    Geographical analysis uncovered uneven distribution across Haiti’s ten departments. The West department experienced the highest concentration with 138 quakes (24.9%), followed by Nippes with 115 (20.7%), and Northwest with 102 (18.4%). Collectively, these three regions accounted for 64% of the nation’s total seismic activity. Conversely, the Center, North, and Northeast departments recorded minimal activity with just 31 combined earthquakes, representing merely 5.6% of the annual total.

    Notably, 206 earthquakes (37.25%) occurred offshore, particularly concentrated around the Northwest Peninsula. Depth measurements revealed that 263 events (47.5%) were shallow-focus earthquakes occurring at depths of 10 kilometers or less, making them more perceptible at the surface despite their typically lower magnitudes.

  • Nuria Piera urges review of unverified autism therapies

    Nuria Piera urges review of unverified autism therapies

    SANTO DOMINGO – Prominent journalist Nuria Piera has launched a public critique against Ernesto Fadul, a practitioner claiming to cure autism through scientifically unvalidated treatments. The controversy centers on medical ethics, evidence-based practice, and the potential exploitation of vulnerable families.

    Piera clarified that the core issue transcends personal disputes, focusing instead on the absence of peer-reviewed research supporting Fadul’s methods. She highlighted that his treatment protocol—reportedly involving vitamin B complexes and amino acids—lacks clinical validation, noting that professional credentials cannot substitute for rigorous scientific trials.

    Concerns have been amplified by testimonies from U.S. specialists who observed a rising trend of families seeking Fadul’s services. Piera revealed that supplements provided under his care, identified as common vitamin compounds, are being sold for $500 to $2,000—far exceeding pharmacy prices—while allegedly lacking proper labeling or health registrations.

    The program featured an emotional account from Adriano Suárez, an Arizona father who traveled to Santiago with his 9-year-old autistic daughter. He described a brief evaluation in substandard clinical conditions and paid $525 for a three-month treatment. Contrary to promises, his daughter experienced developmental regression. Suárez criticized the uniform medication approach for all patients and urged the Ministry of Public Health to investigate.

    Piera concluded by urging health authorities to mandate scientific review of these claims, emphasizing that unproven treatments risk wasting critical developmental windows. Despite Fadul’s defense of his altruistic intentions, public debate intensifies over regulatory oversight and patient safety.

  • National District Carnival 2026 fills the Malecón with color, music, and tradition

    National District Carnival 2026 fills the Malecón with color, music, and tradition

    The iconic Malecón waterfront of Santo Domingo transformed into a spectacular canvas of cultural expression during the National District Carnival 2026, where an estimated crowd of thousands gathered for a celebration marked by vibrant displays and impeccable organization. Under the meticulous coordination of the Mayor’s Office of the National District, the event unfolded as a testament to both tradition and community spirit.

    A procession of more than seventy elaborately costumed dance troupes captivated attendees as they paraded along the capital’s coastline. Their performances, rich in creativity and rhythmic precision, served as a dynamic exhibition of local identity. The afternoon festivities, commencing at approximately 3:30 p.m., were safeguarded by a comprehensive inter-agency security and logistics operation, ensuring a secure and orderly environment for all families and visitors.

    Mayor Carolina Mejía articulated the profound significance of the carnival, framing it not merely as a festive occasion but as an essential manifestation of the city’s collective heritage and social fabric. This year’s edition carried a special dedication to José Guillermo ‘Pepe’ Mieses, a revered physician, athlete, and folklorist recognized for founding the legendary troupe Los Leones del Diablo and for his pivotal role in institutionalizing the carnival’s framework.

    The ceremonial opening was led by the newly crowned King and Queen of Carnival, Francisco Taveras Benítez and Santa Valdez, both honored for their lifelong dedication to the tradition. The parade featured diverse participants, including the National District Fire Department Band and the renowned Los Guloyas de Propagas, with competitive categories spanning Grand Troupe, Best Floats, and various traditional character groups.

    The event drew a distinguished audience of municipal authorities, council members, and prominent figures from the cultural and artistic sectors, who universally praised the event’s superior organization and artistic merit. As daylight faded, the celebration reached its crescendo at Eugenio María de Hostos Park with a powerful concert. Headlining artists Toño Rosario, Omega, Sexappeal, Jandy Ventura, and Steffany Constanza delivered an electrifying musical finale that energized the massive crowd.

    Through this highly successful execution, the Mayor’s Office has powerfully reaffirmed its commitment to preserving cultural legacy, fostering safe public spaces for family entertainment, and cementing the National District Carnival’s status as a premier, anticipated event in Santo Domingo’s cultural calendar.

  • “Don’t take it personal,” Prime Minister tells suppliers as Antigua upgrades major event production

    “Don’t take it personal,” Prime Minister tells suppliers as Antigua upgrades major event production

    In a firm declaration of national development policy, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced his administration’s refusal to permit exclusive supplier arrangements that could compromise the nation’s capacity to host world-class events. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show broadcast via Pointe FM, the Prime Minister articulated a strategic vision for upgrading the country’s event infrastructure to achieve regional and international competitiveness.

    Browne emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda must develop autonomous capabilities to execute high-level conferences, international festivals, and premium performances without dependence on singular providers. “We are leveling up,” stated Browne, underscoring the government’s position against allowing any entity to hold the nation hostage through restrictive production arrangements.

    The Prime Minister outlined specific requirements for the country’s advancement, including the development of large-scale staging facilities, premium sound systems, and professional production standards. He highlighted that attracting high-profile artists and major international events necessitates sophisticated technical infrastructure that meets global expectations.

    Beyond physical infrastructure, Browne addressed the need for human resource development, calling for enhanced professionalism within the events sector. He advocated for specialized training and certification programs in critical areas such as sound engineering to elevate service standards and diminish reliance on foreign technicians.

    This initiative forms part of a comprehensive modernization strategy for Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism and conference offerings. The government aims to position the dual-island nation as a premier destination for global meetings and cultural events by delivering consistently exceptional international experiences that align with national development objectives.

  • Mexicaanse kartelbaas ‘El Mencho’ gedood bij militaire inval

    Mexicaanse kartelbaas ‘El Mencho’ gedood bij militaire inval

    Mexican security forces have confirmed the death of notorious drug cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as ‘El Mencho,’ during a military operation in western Jalisco state. The high-profile raid marks a significant victory for Mexico’s ongoing battle against powerful drug trafficking organizations.

    According to Mexico’s Defense Ministry, Oseguera sustained critical injuries during an intense firefight with government troops and subsequently died while being airlifted to Mexico City for medical treatment. The operation, which benefited from intelligence cooperation with United States authorities, represents the culmination of increased pressure from the Trump administration on Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to intensify anti-narcotics efforts.

    The death of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader has triggered immediate retaliatory violence across multiple Mexican states. Criminal elements have responded with coordinated attacks involving burning vehicles and armed highway blockades, creating widespread disruption in more than half a dozen regions. Social media footage shows plumes of black smoke rising from incendiary roadblocks throughout Jalisco and neighboring areas.

    Oseguera, a former police officer, had transformed the CJNG from a regional organization into one of Mexico’s most powerful international criminal enterprises within a remarkably short timeframe. The cartel had been competing with the Sinaloa Cartel, formerly led by imprisoned kingpin Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán, for dominance in drug trafficking operations.

    United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau characterized Oseguera’s demise as a “major development” for both nations and the broader Latin American region. However, security experts warn that the power vacuum created by his death could unleash prolonged violence as competing factions struggle for control.

    In response to the security crisis, Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro has urged residents to remain indoors while authorities work to restore order. The U.S. Embassy has issued similar precautions for American citizens, and multiple airlines including Air Canada, United Airlines, and American Airlines have suspended or canceled flights to popular tourist destinations Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara.

  • France : Master’s 2 Scholarship (2026-2027) – Call for Applications

    France : Master’s 2 Scholarship (2026-2027) – Call for Applications

    A significant educational partnership between the French government, Bank of the Republic of Haiti, and Unibank Foundation has officially launched its Master’s scholarship program for Haitian students seeking advanced studies in France during the 2026-2027 academic year.

    The comprehensive scholarship initiative targets high-achieving Haitian scholars under 35 years of age who demonstrate academic excellence and seek to pursue Master’s level studies (M2) within France’s public university system. The program specifically focuses on four critical academic disciplines: Economics/Finance/Governance, Science & Technology (including Artificial Intelligence), Engineering Sciences, and Health studies (excluding clinical specialization).

    Prospective applicants must navigate a dual application process, requiring both scholarship application and formal admission through the exclusive ‘Etudes en France’ platform. The program explicitly excludes applications processed through alternative channels such as MonMaster.gouv.fr or E-Candidat systems. Eligibility mandates Haitian citizenship, residency in Haiti, and possession of a BAC+4 equivalent degree in the relevant field.

    Selected recipients will receive comprehensive support including monthly stipends, full tuition coverage, pre-paid airline tickets, and visa facilitation through the French Embassy. Campus France will provide ongoing assistance with institutional coordination and arrival logistics.

    The application window remains open until May 29, 2026, with a rigorous selection timeline involving document review, committee shortlisting, and oral interviews throughout June. Final selections will be announced during the last week of June, followed by pre-departure orientation sessions in late August.

    Interested candidates can access application materials and institutional directories through provided official links, with additional guidance available through Haiti’s Campus France office and designated embassy contacts.

  • LISTEN: PM Says Some Sound Operators Showing Up to National Events With Boxers Exposed

    LISTEN: PM Says Some Sound Operators Showing Up to National Events With Boxers Exposed

    The Prime Minister has publicly addressed a growing concern regarding the standard of attire displayed by certain sound system operators at official national ceremonies. During a recent address, the nation’s leader expressed significant disapproval, highlighting instances where technicians arrived at these solemn events dressed in casual boxer shorts, which was deemed highly inappropriate for the occasion.

    This sartorial criticism underscores a broader expectation for professionalism and respect when participating in events of national significance. The Prime Minister’s remarks emphasized that such attire fails to reflect the dignity these ceremonies command and the respect they deserve from all participants, regardless of their specific role.

    The comments have ignited a conversation on protocol and the minimum standards of decorum for contractors and staff working at government-hosted functions. The government is expected to reinforce existing guidelines or potentially implement new sartorial protocols for all service providers to prevent a recurrence and ensure that the solemnity of national events is maintained by everyone involved.

  • Chaos in Mexico : Important notice to the Haitian community

    Chaos in Mexico : Important notice to the Haitian community

    Mexico has been plunged into widespread violence and chaos following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious drug lord known as ‘El Mencho.’ The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) was fatally wounded during a major military operation on February 22, 2026, in Tapalpa, Jalisco state. He succumbed to his injuries while being transported by air to Mexico City.

    In retaliation for their leader’s death, cartel members have unleashed a wave of violence across at least eight Mexican states. The unrest has included arson attacks on businesses and public transportation, road blockades, and temporary airport closures, creating widespread disruption and endangering civilians.

    The Haitian Embassy in Mexico has issued an urgent security alert to its citizens residing in or visiting the affected regions. The advisory specifically warns about ongoing security operations in Jalisco state, particularly in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Tapalpa, where armed clashes and vehicle fires have been reported.

    Additional states experiencing cartel-related violence include Michoacán, Guanajuato, Nayarit, Colima, Aguascalientes, and Tamaulipas. The embassy has instructed Haitian nationals to exercise extreme caution, shelter in place, and avoid all non-essential travel. Other recommendations include strictly avoiding areas where law enforcement operations are underway, maintaining heightened situational awareness, and monitoring reliable local media for updates.

    The embassy further advised citizens to follow instructions from local authorities, use emergency services by dialing 911 when necessary, and regularly communicate their whereabouts and safety status to family members through various communication channels. Haitian diplomatic officials confirmed they are closely monitoring the evolving security situation and emphasized the importance of caution and personal responsibility during this period of heightened instability.

  • Only a Lucian would…

    Only a Lucian would…

    The vibrant island nation of Saint Lucia possesses a linguistic culture entirely its own, where everyday communication transforms into an art form rich with humor, exasperation, and distinctive character. This creole-influenced vernacular, heard from bustling marketplaces to crowded bus stands, represents more than mere communication—it embodies the very soul of Lucian identity.

    Among the most colorful expressions is “How is me uh?”—a rhetorical question deployed when extricating oneself from an untenable situation. Similarly, the standalone interjection “AA” conveys profound disbelief, often amplified when paired with “Just so?” to intensify skepticism.

    The local lexicon thrives in social dynamics. “Mouth open, story jump out” serves as the ultimate gossip-closer, signaling sudden truth revelation. Exaggeration finds its voice through “Asiay!” and the universal exclamation “Mama!!”, both amplifying shock or astonishment in daily interactions.

    Public transportation has bred its own terminology. Bus drivers famously instruct passengers to “Small up yourself”—a pragmatic appeal for space optimization that reflects communal adaptability. The terms “Garçon” or “Gassa” (meaning friend or comrade) frequently precede humorous anecdotes or mild confrontations, adding camaraderie to criticism.

    Emotional expression takes nuanced forms: “Mwen pa mélé” (I don’t care) demonstrates dismissive indifference, while “You fulling my head” conveys intolerance toward excessive complaints. Frustration manifests through the Creole sigh “Abeh bon!”, and disappointment through the repetitive “Wer, wer, wer”.

    Perhaps most ironically, the phrase “I coming just now” universally signals significant delay rather than imminent arrival. Meanwhile, “Ro ro” encapsulates the drama of gossip, arguments, or general mischief, completing a linguistic tapestry that remains beautifully inaccessible to outsiders while defining Lucian cultural intimacy.