Barbados has been downgraded to the Tier 2 Watch List in the 2025 United States Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, a move that could tarnish the island’s global standing in the fight against human trafficking. The U.S. State Department cited Barbados’ failure to identify or assist trafficking victims for three consecutive years, the absence of prosecutions, and the lack of a new national action plan since the previous one expired in 2023 as key reasons for the downgrade. The TIP Report is a globally recognized benchmark for assessing a country’s commitment to combating human trafficking, and the Tier 2 Watch List designation signals concerns about Barbados’ efforts in this critical area. However, questions have been raised about the fairness and applicability of the U.S. evaluation criteria, particularly for small, developing nations like Barbados. Attorney General Dale Marshall emphasized that the downgrade is based on U.S. domestic legislation, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, rather than a global standard. While the report acknowledged Barbados’ “significant efforts,” it criticized the country for not showing “overall increasing efforts” compared to the previous year. Marshall revealed that a new action plan for 2025/26 is in development and that Barbados is addressing the report’s concerns. He also noted that human trafficking is not widespread in Barbados, based on available data, and that the country’s response aligns with its risk level and resources. The absence of identified victims over three years could indicate either a lack of trafficking incidents or deficiencies in detection, highlighting the need for improved data collection and victim screening. Barbados must address gaps in its anti-trafficking framework, including updating its national action plan and revising outdated provisions in the Trafficking in Persons Prevention Act. While the Attorney General rejected the feasibility of dedicated victim services and specialized courts, Barbados must ensure its approach is proactive rather than reactive. This moment calls for measured action, including enhanced training for frontline personnel and a stronger national framework. At the same time, Barbados must advocate for fair and transparent evaluations from international bodies, given the potential reputational, aid, and diplomatic consequences of such rankings.
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Barbuda Council Denies Responsibility for Codrington Landfill Fire, Urges Public to Report Perpetrators
The Barbuda Council has issued a public statement regarding a recent fire at the Codrington Landfill, clarifying that neither the Council’s Health Department nor landfill workers were responsible for igniting the blaze. The Council strongly condemns the unauthorized burning of solid waste at the site, emphasizing the environmental and health hazards it poses. Authorities are actively investigating the incident and urge anyone with information about the perpetrator(s) to come forward and report to the Health Administrative Office or the Police. The fire has significantly compromised air quality in the community, prompting the Council to advise residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, to take extra precautions to protect their health. In response to the emergency, the Barbuda Council is collaborating with the Barbuda Fire Department to deploy all available resources to contain and extinguish the fire. The Council remains committed to addressing the situation swiftly and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
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Financial Information Month Festival 2025 Launched
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) officially inaugurated the Financial Information Month (FIM) Festival 2025 on September 30 with a regional media event. The gathering united banking partners, students, educators, government representatives, and media practitioners from across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). The event signaled the commencement of a month-long series of activities throughout October, aimed at fortifying communities and empowering citizens to transition from being savers to investors—the central theme of this year’s FIM Festival. Deputy Governor Dr. Valda F. Henry delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the ECCB’s mission to maintain monetary and financial stability while fostering growth and development. She highlighted key initiatives such as the First Step Savings Account, designed to integrate more citizens into the formal banking system, and the Regional Government Securities Market (RGSM) Retail Bond Initiative, which aims to facilitate the shift from saving to investing. The launch, chaired by Shermalon Kirby, Director of the Corporate Relations Department, featured presentations from regional and sectoral partners. These included discussions on wealth creation by Dwight Sampson of Grenada’s Ministry of Finance, a monologue titled “Me Want to Grow My Wealth” by Shana Derrick, and insights into the ECCU Retail Bond Initiative by Juletta Edinborough. Additionally, Youlouca Armony-Browne of the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange highlighted the 3rd Annual Regional Schools Investment Competition, with reflections from the 2024 champions, Adelphi Secondary School. Representatives from FIM Partnering institutions also presented their 2025 Calendar of Activities.
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Wave near Africa could gradually strengthen, possibly a depression by mid-late next week
A tropical wave currently situated between the west coast of Africa and the Cabo Verde Islands is generating a wide area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Meteorologists predict gradual development of this system over the coming days, with a possibility of it strengthening into a tropical depression by the middle to latter part of next week. As it progresses across the central tropical Atlantic, it is expected to approach the Leeward Islands. The likelihood of cyclone formation within the next 48 hours remains low, near 0 percent, but increases to a medium 50 percent chance over the next seven days. Residents in the affected regions are advised to monitor updates closely as the situation evolves.
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OP-ED: Big Tobacco Calls It Harm Reduction, Caribbean Youth Calls It Profiting From Addiction
The Caribbean has become a focal point for lobbying efforts by groups such as the World Vapers’ Alliance, Smoke Free Sweden, and We Are Innovation. These organizations are pushing narratives aimed at weakening robust tobacco control measures in the region, particularly ahead of the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Recent articles and social media campaigns targeting Barbados and Trinidad have promoted the tobacco industry’s agenda, falsely portraying electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products as harm reduction tools. However, these claims are not supported by independent public health research. Instead, these products are aggressively marketed to youth, are highly addictive, and pose significant long-term health risks. Nicotine, a key component of these products, is linked to cardiovascular disease, cancers, and impaired brain development in adolescents. The World Health Organization has warned that the tobacco industry is using these newer products to undermine public health policies while continuing to profit from traditional cigarettes. Dr. Arthur Phillips, Deputy Chief Medical Officer in Barbados, highlighted the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States to the long-term costs of nicotine addiction. The Barbados National NCD Commission has also raised concerns about the rise of vaping, emphasizing its health risks and aggressive marketing to youth. Caribbean governments, as parties to the WHO FCTC, must remain vigilant against industry interference and advocate for evidence-based tobacco control policies at COP11. Measures such as higher tobacco taxes, advertising bans, and accessible cessation services are essential to protect public health.
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DCA Halts Construction of Controversial Church Statue on All Saints Road
The Development Control Authority (DCA) has issued an immediate halt to the construction of a towering statue at Glorious Hope Ministries, escalating the ongoing debate surrounding the monument. The DCA has demanded that the church provide evidence of proper authorization for the project. While sources indicate that approval was granted, it reportedly did not cover the specific location where the statue is being erected. Elder Claude Weaver, the church’s leader, has asserted that all necessary documentation is in order and that he has complied with the DCA’s requests. The statue, which stands prominently on All Saints Road, was intended to symbolize biblical prophecies from the book of Daniel. Its imposing design—featuring a helmeted head, crossed arms, and muscular frame—has sparked a range of reactions. Supporters view it as a bold declaration of faith, while critics have questioned its size and placement. With the DCA’s intervention, the future of the statue remains uncertain, leaving both the church and the community in anticipation of further developments.
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VC Bird Airport Advises Travelers of Water Main Repairs Affecting Terminal Area
The Antigua and Barbuda Airports Authority (ABAA) has issued a public advisory regarding ongoing water line repairs at VC Bird International Airport. The Maintenance Department is currently conducting essential repairs to the water main located west of the Arrivals Hall exit, near the terminal curbside. These repairs are expected to temporarily disrupt pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the affected area. Travelers and airport users are strongly advised to exercise caution, adhere to posted signage, and follow instructions from airport personnel to ensure safety during this period. The ABAA has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and extended gratitude to the public for their patience as the repairs are carried out efficiently. While the duration of the repairs remains unspecified, the authority emphasized its commitment to minimizing disruptions and maintaining safety standards. The announcement underscores the airport’s proactive approach to infrastructure maintenance and its dedication to ensuring a seamless travel experience for all users.
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VIDEO: Watch the U.S Destroy Alleged Drug Boat In The Caribbean
In a significant counter-narcotics operation, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth revealed that American forces targeted and destroyed a narco-trafficking vessel off the coast of Venezuela on Friday. The strike resulted in the deaths of four individuals identified as ‘narco-terrorists.’ The operation was part of a broader regional effort involving approximately 4,500 U.S. troops, including units stationed on St. Croix, to combat drug trafficking in the area. Hegseth shared a video of the strike on social media, showcasing the moment the vessel was obliterated. This action underscores the Biden administration’s intensified focus on disrupting illegal drug networks in Latin America. The strike highlights the U.S. military’s proactive stance in addressing transnational crime and its commitment to regional security. Analysts suggest that such operations may escalate tensions with Venezuela, which has long been a hub for drug trafficking activities. The incident also raises questions about the broader implications for U.S.-Venezuela relations and the effectiveness of military interventions in curbing the global drug trade.
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Ministry of Works Marks Major Progress in National Road Upgrades
The Ministry of Works in Antigua has announced a series of remarkable achievements in its national road upgrade initiatives, marking September as a month of substantial progress. The ministry highlighted the collaborative efforts of engineers, contractors, quarry operators, and road crews, who have been instrumental in driving these advancements across the island. Key projects included extensive upgrades to Valley Road North, Anchorage Road, and the Sir Sydney Walling Highway. Additionally, resurfacing and drainage improvements were successfully completed in Clare Hall and along the Parham–Blue Waters main road. Minister of Works Maria Browne expressed her gratitude to all contributors, particularly contractor C.O. Williams, for their dedication. She emphasized the ministry’s commitment to delivering durable infrastructure that serves every community in Antigua and Barbuda. Looking ahead, the ministry plans to focus on major upgrades to All Saints Road, as part of an ongoing ‘road works revolution.’ This initiative underscores the government’s resolve to enhance the nation’s transportation network and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
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Former UPP Hopeful Jermaine N. Edwards Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and supporting those affected by this devastating disease. This year, the narrative takes a deeply personal turn as Jermaine N. Edwards, a long-time advocate, reveals her own battle with breast cancer. Known for her unwavering support and advocacy, Edwards now steps into the spotlight not just as a voice for others, but as a fighter in her own right.
Edwards’ journey with breast cancer began with a heavy truth she could no longer silence. ‘I have breast cancer,’ she writes, acknowledging the weight of those words. For Edwards, this diagnosis is more than a personal struggle; it is a call to action. She emphasizes the importance of early detection, urging women to perform self-examinations and seek medical attention at the first sign of abnormality. ‘Early detection is often the difference between life and death,’ she stresses.
Her story is one of resilience and vulnerability. Edwards reflects on the emotional and spiritual toll of cancer, describing it as a rollercoaster of courage, tears, hope, and exhaustion. She shares how cancer has reshaped her life and the lives of those around her, testing the strength of her family and loved ones. ‘Cancer does not strike one. It strikes all,’ she writes, highlighting the collective impact of the disease.
As a community advocate, Edwards has always been the pillar of strength for others. Now, she finds herself in the unfamiliar position of accepting support. ‘Vulnerability has never been my comfort zone,’ she admits, but cancer has forced her to open her hands and let others hold her up. Her message is clear: no one should face this battle alone.
Edwards concludes with a powerful call to action. She urges women to prioritize their health, get screened, and support organizations working tirelessly to find a cure. ‘Your tomorrow may depend on what you choose to do today,’ she reminds readers. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Edwards is not just raising awareness—she is standing in the fire, fighting with everything she has.
Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and determination can prevail.