Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Diaz-Canel: ICAP is a bridge between peoples, a voice for just causes

    Diaz-Canel: ICAP is a bridge between peoples, a voice for just causes

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has publicly commemorated the 65th anniversary of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), utilizing social media platform X to honor the institution originally established by revolutionary leader Fidel Castro.

    In his digital tribute, Díaz-Canel emphasized the organization’s enduring relevance, stating: ‘Guided by Fidel’s visionary principles and foundational ideology, ICAP maintains—and now more than ever—its crucial mission of bridging nations and championing humanity’s most noble causes.’

    The President characterized the anniversary celebrations as possessing ‘particular symbolic importance,’ noting that ICAP’s headquarters has served as a epicenter for ‘dedication to peace, international friendship, and global solidarity throughout its sixty-five years of operation.’

    Echoing these sentiments, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez extended official congratulations to ICAP and its personnel through the same digital platform. Rodríguez specifically recognized the institution’s ‘effectual and demanding efforts in advancing solidarity and friendship, while defending Cuba against imperialist aggression and supporting righteous global causes.’

    The commemorative events included a central ceremony held preceding the anniversary date, featuring ICAP President Fernando González. During his address, González portrayed the organization as ‘a fortress of ideals, a laboratory of friendship, and a strategic component in safeguarding the Revolution’s legacy.’

  • Syrian city imposes curfew after sectarian violence

    Syrian city imposes curfew after sectarian violence

    The Syrian government has declared an overnight curfew for the coastal province of Latakia, effective from 5:00 PM local time Tuesday through 6:00 AM Wednesday, in response to escalating sectarian violence. The security measure exempts emergency personnel including medical workers, ambulance services, and firefighters from the restrictions.

    Interior Ministry spokesperson Noureddine al-Baba, in official communications with the state-run SANA news agency, called upon Latakia’s residents to maintain lawful conduct and preserve public safety. The spokesman specifically cautioned citizens against responding to provocative language and destabilizing actions that threaten national cohesion.

    al-Baba emphasized the state’s firm stance against acts of vandalism and aggression targeting civilian property or dignity, characterizing such behavior as explicit violations of Syrian law. He warned that perpetrators would face full legal consequences for actions undermining stability.

    The curfew implementation follows reports from local sources and monitoring groups indicating several western Syrian regions have experienced violent riots and sectarian clashes in recent hours. These disturbances have primarily targeted members of the Alawite community, representing a significant escalation in regional tensions.

  • Unemployment in Brazil falls to 5,2% in November

    Unemployment in Brazil falls to 5,2% in November

    Brazil’s labor market has achieved a significant milestone, recording its lowest unemployment rate since the inception of the National Continuous Household Sample Survey (PNAD Continua) in 2012. This historic low underscores a notable improvement in the country’s employment landscape.

    According to the latest data, approximately 5.6 million Brazilians actively sought employment without success between September and November. This figure marks a slight improvement from October, which saw 5.9 million workers in search of jobs.

    The formal employment sector has demonstrated substantial growth, with the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) identifying 39.4 million formal workers in the quarter ending November. This expansion reflects strengthened economic stability and increased formalization in the workforce.

    Concurrently, Brazil’s overall employment numbers have reached unprecedented levels. The nation now boasts 103 million employed individuals, representing an increase of 1.1 million jobs compared to November 2015. This record-breaking employment figure highlights the sustained recovery and growth of Brazil’s labor market amid broader economic challenges.

  • Noboa declares prison perimeters in Ecuador security zones

    Noboa declares prison perimeters in Ecuador security zones

    In a decisive move to confront organized crime, the Ecuadorian government has authorized the establishment of classified security perimeters under military jurisdiction within the nation’s prison system. This strategic initiative, formally documented on April 7, 2024, stems directly from President Daniel Noboa’s declaration of an internal armed conflict, which mandated the Ministries of Defense and the Interior to develop comprehensive technical frameworks for securing penitentiary facilities.

    The newly implemented measures represent a significant militarization of prison security. The Armed Forces are now vested with full control and operational responsibility over these restricted zones, though the policy explicitly clarifies that this does not equate to military ownership of the physical locations. The multi-faceted security protocol includes the deployment of advanced anti-drone technology systems, capable of remotely inhibiting or destroying unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles attempting to breach prison airspace.

    Further bolstering the crackdown, the government has enacted stringent telecommunications controls, including signal jamming within prison confines to sever illicit communication channels. Construction activities near penitentiaries face severe restrictions, with an outright ban on tunnel excavation and limitations on the erection of any vertical or horizontal structures within the newly defined security boundaries.

    This aggressive policy is a direct response to the government’s assessment that Ecuador’s prisons serve as primary epicenters of criminal violence. Statistical evidence underscores the crisis: since 2021, nearly 600 inmates have been killed, predominantly in violent clashes between rival gangs operating from within the penitentiary centers, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security intervention.

  • Warnings about AI and the electoral risks in Brazil for 2026

    Warnings about AI and the electoral risks in Brazil for 2026

    The integrity of democratic elections worldwide is facing an unprecedented threat from sophisticated artificial intelligence tools capable of generating convincing fake multimedia content. Since 2018, electoral processes have been systematically undermined by disinformation campaigns, but the emergence of accessible deepfake technology in 2025 has dramatically accelerated this concerning trend.

    Cybersecurity authority Rodolfo Avelino, speaking with Brasil de Fato’s radio station, characterized 2025 as a period of ‘impressive growth’ for AI manipulation tools. These advanced systems can now seamlessly replicate voices and visual appearances, creating fabricated content that challenges human discernment capabilities. The technological evolution has effectively blurred the line between authentic media and synthetic manipulations, creating unprecedented challenges for voters, journalists, and election authorities.

    The Brazilian legislative response, known as the AI Regulation Bill (PL 2338, 2023), remains stalled in the Chamber of Deputies despite the escalating threat. Professor Avelino attributes this legislative paralysis to multiple factors, including significant corporate lobbying efforts regarding technology governance. The expert expressed minimal optimism for substantial regulatory progress in 2026, anticipating that more comprehensive policy measures are unlikely to reach voting stages.

    The proposed legislation, under discussion for approximately five years, seeks to establish critical accountability frameworks including control mechanisms, impact responsibility protocols, and economic benefit distribution structures for AI technologies. Its continued stagnation leaves a dangerous regulatory vacuum during a period of rapidly advancing synthetic media capabilities.

  • Ocean Academy Shuts Down In-Person Classes Amid Delays in Delivering Promised School

    Ocean Academy Shuts Down In-Person Classes Amid Delays in Delivering Promised School

    Ocean Academy High School on Caye Caulker, Belize, has been compelled to suspend all in-person instruction following a damning environmental health report that identified severe flooding, pervasive mold infestation, and dangerous mosquito breeding grounds throughout the campus. The alarming conditions, documented in a November 18th inspection by the Central Health Region’s Environmental Health Unit, present immediate health risks to students and staff, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

    The school’s three-story structure, built on low-lying land, has suffered from worsening flooding due to surrounding development on higher elevations, creating a problematic basin effect. Despite repeated mitigation efforts—including floor elevation projects, pumping thousands of liters of water, and quarterly engineering assessments—the institution has been unable to resolve the chronic issues.

    In response to the crisis, Ocean Academy has implemented a fragmented hybrid learning model, scattering classes across available spaces above local bars, shops, and village council offices. This makeshift arrangement has significantly compromised educational quality, with students attending sessions without proper desks, chairs, or teaching aids while balancing notebooks on their laps.

    The situation is particularly frustrating for the community given the unfulfilled promise of a new campus funded through a $70 million Caribbean Development Bank loan approved in 2015. Despite a ceremonial groundbreaking in 2019 attended by education officials, the designated 5.17-acre site remains vacant five years later. Political leadership changes between the United Democratic Party and People’s United Party administrations, coupled with cited administrative delays and COVID-19 impacts, have stalled construction indefinitely.

    Current Area Representative Andre Perez has characterized the 2019 ceremony as merely performative while asserting that legitimate construction will commence by May 2026. However, community trust has eroded after years of unmet commitments, leaving students to endure substandard learning conditions with no permanent solution in sight.

  • Flash-flood watch back in effect for Barbados

    Flash-flood watch back in effect for Barbados

    The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has activated a flash-flood watch across the island nation effective Tuesday, December 30th, responding to predictions of concentrated moderate to heavy precipitation throughout the day. Meteorological experts indicate these weather patterns pose a tangible risk of triggering isolated flooding incidents, with low-lying and traditionally vulnerable regions facing the highest threat levels.

    Current atmospheric models project a persistent cloud cover leading to overcast conditions, potentially delivering additional rainfall accumulations of one to two inches. This follows overnight precipitation that already deposited similar quantities in specific parishes, including St. Andrew and St. Peter. The official advisory, initiated at 7:30 a.m., is scheduled to remain active until 6:00 p.m. unless meteorological developments prompt an earlier cancellation.

    Authorities have classified the flooding probability as medium-risk, outlining several potential consequences: accelerated soil erosion, accumulation of water on roadway networks and agricultural land, and elevated levels in ponds and reservoirs. These conditions may subsequently result in transportation disruptions, including traffic delays and potential isolated road diversions, particularly within urban corridors.

    While conditions are anticipated to improve by nightfall, emergency management officials strongly urge residents to maintain heightened awareness. The Department of Emergency Management (DEM) advises citizens to continuously monitor updates disseminated through official channels including the BMS, DEM, and the Barbados Government Information Service. A subsequent escalation to a flash-flood warning remains possible with minimal notice should atmospheric conditions deteriorate.

  • Nexa Credit Union spreads holiday cheer

    Nexa Credit Union spreads holiday cheer

    Nexa Credit Union has redefined holiday banking by transforming its annual Christmas Loan Promotion into a comprehensive community enrichment campaign. Moving beyond conventional financial services, the institution embedded its ‘people helping people’ philosophy into a series of initiatives that blended financial support with tangible community benefits.

    The centerpiece of this year’s ‘Happier Holiday Christmas Loan Promotion’ was an innovative educational grant competition. Ten local schools participated in an engaging digital campaign from December 1-19, creating social media content and mobilizing their communities through daily online polling. After nearly three weeks of enthusiastic participation, Corinth Government School secured victory with 613 votes, earning the EC$5,000 grand prize dedicated to enhancing educational facilities. Bishop’s College followed closely with 563 votes, while St. Martin de Porres Catholic School garnered 344 votes to complete the top three.

    Parallel to the educational initiative, Nexa distributed festive rewards across multiple channels. Each of the credit union’s five branches selected one fortunate member for prizes based on transaction activity during the promotion period. The institution’s social media presence came alive with a Mystery Gift Wrap campaign that awarded three followers with surprise packages, while one loan applicant received the ultimate holiday experience: a three-person day pass to Sandals resort.

    Randy Frank, Deputy General Manager of Nexa Credit Union, emphasized the strategic thinking behind these initiatives: ‘Our Christmas campaign embodies Nexa’s core values. During this special season, we’re reminded that our responsibility extends beyond financial services to actively uplifting our members and strengthening community bonds through shared joy and support.’

    The credit union expressed gratitude to all participants, noting that collective engagement transformed the promotion into a genuine celebration of generosity and connection. Nexa continues to invite community members to stay informed about future initiatives through their official website and social media channels.

  • Kiwanis Nature Island Club hosts annual party with 32 youngsters

    Kiwanis Nature Island Club hosts annual party with 32 youngsters

    DOMINICA – In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica hosted its annual Christmas celebration on December 27, 2025, bringing festive joy to 32 young students. The event, held at the Goodwill Primary School Auditorium, transformed the venue into an enchanting winter wonderland for a day of merriment and gift-giving.

    The organization meticulously organized an engaging program featuring festive activities, lively music, delicious treats, and special surprises for the attending children. The highlight of the celebration proved to be the appearance of Santa Claus, who personally distributed gifts to each delighted child, creating unforgettable memories for all participants.

    Mary Winston, President of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club, emphasized the significance of this annual tradition. ‘This event embodies our fundamental mission to serve Dominica’s children,’ Winston stated. ‘Witnessing the radiant joy on these young faces reinforces our commitment to this meaningful work year after year. We extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated sponsors, volunteers, and the Goodwill Primary School for their invaluable support in bringing this celebration to life.’

    The Kiwanis organization has established a longstanding reputation for implementing various community initiatives throughout Dominica, consistently working to inspire hope and create opportunities for local families. This Christmas celebration represents one of their many ongoing efforts to strengthen community bonds and spread positivity across the nature island.

    For additional information about the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica and details regarding future activities, the organization encourages community members to visit their Facebook page @Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica.

  • Murders fall below 700 for first time in over 31 years — Chang

    Murders fall below 700 for first time in over 31 years — Chang

    Jamaica has reached a monumental milestone in public safety as the nation records its lowest homicide rate in over three decades. National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang announced that murder cases have fallen below 700 for the first time since 1994, representing a dramatic 40% year-over-year reduction compared to 2024 figures.

    This achievement becomes even more significant when viewed against historical data. The current numbers show an astonishing 60% decline from Jamaica’s peak violence period in 2009, when the nation recorded 1,683 murders. This transformation translates to approximately 1,000 lives saved compared to that benchmark year.

    The remarkable turnaround stems from a comprehensive security strategy implemented through the Ministry of National Security and Peace. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) spearheaded this transformation through several key initiatives: substantial personnel expansion, infrastructure modernization, improved compensation packages, technology integration, and merit-based promotion systems that have advanced over 2,100 officers since 2024.

    Operational effectiveness received a significant boost from flagship programs including Project ROCK and the deployment of advanced surveillance, communications, and intelligence systems. Complementing these enforcement measures, prevention-focused efforts like the Live Good Anti-Violence Campaign have targeted the underlying social causes of criminal behavior.

    Minister Chang extended gratitude to all security personnel including the Jamaica Defence Force, the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency, correctional officers, and border security teams. He emphasized that this achievement represents a national effort that has fundamentally altered Jamaica’s security trajectory, positioning the nation for sustainable crime reduction in the coming years.