As Barbados’ Parliament deliberates the Caribbean Community (Free Movement of Nationals) Bill, political experts highlight the potential of regional labor mobility to address demographic challenges and stimulate economic growth. Peter Wickham, a prominent political scientist, emphasized that the initiative aligns with Barbados’ long-term economic objectives and regional integration commitments. ‘The Prime Minister has expressed a clear goal to significantly increase the population, and I fully support this strategy,’ Wickham stated. ‘There’s a direct correlation between population size and GDP growth. By attracting working-age individuals, we can enhance economic activity, bolster Social Security contributions, and create a win-win scenario.’ Wickham also refuted Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne’s claim that the bill is unrelated to the creation of a single market. ‘The notion that free movement of goods is more critical than labor mobility is misguided. In service-driven economies like ours, the movement of people is far more essential,’ he explained. He noted that Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines are spearheading the agreement due to their political stability and underpopulation. ‘These countries share common advantages, and I hope others will follow suit in due course,’ Wickham added. Deveron Bruce, another political scientist, echoed the importance of population growth in sustaining economic vitality, particularly given Barbados’ declining birth rates. ‘We’ve observed a worrying trend in reduced birth rates and declining youth populations, which impacts economic sustainability,’ Bruce remarked. ‘Population growth is vital for maintaining demand, creating opportunities, and driving prosperity.’ However, Bruce cautioned that the policy must address wage competition concerns. ‘In sectors like home care and construction, there’s a risk of wage suppression if workers undercut local expectations. The government must proactively safeguard workers’ interests while promoting migration as a growth catalyst,’ he advised. Both experts agree that while regional labor mobility offers significant economic benefits, careful implementation is crucial to ensure equitable outcomes.
分类： politics
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A magazine about socialist Cuba and that better possible world
Cuba Socialista, the theoretical and political magazine of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, has unveiled its special 2024-2025 issue, coinciding with the Third Edition of the International Meeting of Theoretical Publications of Leftist Parties and Movements in Havana. This edition marks the beginning of the commemorations for the 100th anniversary of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, set to be celebrated in 2026. The commemorative program was officially presented on August 13, 2025, in Birán, Castro’s birthplace. The issue features a speech by Roberto Morales Ojeda, member of the Political Bureau and secretary of Organization of the Party’s Central Committee, delivered during the program’s launch. Additionally, the magazine honors the founders of the first Communist Party of Cuba in its centenary year and includes key speeches from the Second International Meeting of Theoretical Publications of Left-wing Parties and Movements. A significant highlight is the report and closing remarks by Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Central Committee and President of Cuba, which underscore the depth of the debates and the principled positions adopted during the event. The issue also dedicates space to solidarity with the Palestinian people, reflecting the voices of over 100,000 Havana residents who protested against Israel’s actions in Gaza on October 9th. Furthermore, it commemorates the centenary of Vladimir Lenin’s passing, leader of the First Socialist Revolution. This special edition also kicks off the magazine’s 65th-anniversary celebrations, which will culminate in 2026 alongside the 9th Congress of the Communist Party and Fidel Castro’s centennial.
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President Simons: Leiderschap vraagt vertrouwen, ook in de storm
At a commemorative gathering held on Monday evening to honor what would have been the 80th birthday of Desi Bouterse, President Jennifer Simons, chairperson of the NDP, spoke candidly about the solitude and responsibility that leadership entails. ‘There are storms in which I have no power, because they are greater than I am,’ she remarked. ‘Yet, we must trust each other to do the best we can from the positions we hold.’
Simons described Bouterse’s life as ‘complete, yet meaningful to many,’ praising his perseverance despite the adversities he faced. ‘He meant something to everyone in Suriname—though not the same thing to everyone. He was controversial, yet deeply beloved. The place he stood was a lonely one. No matter how many people surrounded him—it was a solitary position. And he endured it for decades. Respect.’
The president acknowledged that she, too, experiences similar solitude in her current role when making difficult decisions. According to Simons, mutual trust is essential, both within the party and the nation. ‘If we do not collaborate—within the party and the country—we will not succeed. But if we stand together with a shared goal, Suriname will become the remarkable country we all know it can be.’
Simons referenced Bouterse’s own words as an example of his life philosophy: ‘When you sleep, I do not. And when you do not sleep, I sleep.’ In this, she recognized the burden of leadership but also the dedication to a greater purpose. ‘The life he led was not easy. Yet, he persevered, even in his solitude. That requires courage and trust.’
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Dominican official nominated to lead UN Office on Drugs and Crime
Santo Domingo – In a significant move to bolster international efforts against drug trafficking and organized crime, President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic has put forward Leandro José Villanueva Acebal as the nation’s candidate to lead the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This nomination comes in response to a September proposal by the United States, which urged the Dominican government to take a leadership role in the agency. Villanueva, a seasoned professional, currently serves on the Board of Directors of the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD) and has previously held key positions such as Deputy Minister of Public Health and Director General of Medicines, Food, and Health Products (Digemaps). The UNODC, established in 1997, operates globally in over 150 countries, focusing on combating drugs, crime, terrorism, and corruption through policy development, training, and international collaboration. The position will soon be vacant as current Executive Director Ghada Waly prepares to step down next month. U.S. officials have lauded the Dominican Republic’s “proven record and strong commitment” in these areas, emphasizing that Villanueva’s candidacy would enhance UNODC’s leadership and foster greater global cooperation.
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ULP on the move for a 6th term
The Unity Labour Party (ULP) is making significant strides in its 2025 campaign, marked by a massive rally held on October 11 at the Layou Playing Field. Under the theme ‘We Wuking,’ the event highlighted the party’s broader campaign slogan, ‘Labour is Working For All.’ Prominent figures including Saboto Caesar, Grace Walters, Grenville Williams, Carlos James, Orando Brewster, and Comrade Ralph delivered compelling speeches, outlining the party’s achievements and future plans under the overarching theme ‘Own The Future.’ The rally, which lasted nearly five hours, captivated the audience with a mix of political discourse and musical performances, showcasing the ULP’s deep connection with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). The event underscored the party’s determination to secure a sixth consecutive term in office. The ULP’s campaign has also spotlighted emerging stars like Dr. Grace Walters and Dr. Orando Brewster, alongside seasoned leaders such as Saboto Caesar and Comrade Ralph, who continues to be a pivotal figure in the party’s success. The week of October 11-17 was particularly eventful for the ULP, with the inauguration of the Clifton Ferry Terminal on Union Island, the Ignite Grand Finale cultural competition, and the Central Kingstown Football Competition. Additionally, the party held a press briefing on October 13 regarding the upcoming opening of the Modern Port, scheduled for October 25. On October 16, the ULP commemorated two significant historical milestones: the 57th anniversary of Comrade Ralph’s leadership in political activism and the 31st anniversary of the merger between the SVG Labour Party and the Movement for National Unity, which formed the ULP. These events were celebrated with the launch of two books authored by Comrade Ralph, ‘Caribbean Regional Integration’ and ‘Labour is Working for All,’ and a planned rally in Calliaqua on October 18. The ULP’s enduring legacy and commitment to SVG’s development continue to resonate with the electorate, positioning the party as a formidable force in the upcoming elections.
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Venezuela Points to Oil, Not Cocaine, in Latest Dispute with the U.S
In a recent press conference, Venezuela’s Ambassador to Belize, Gerardo Argote, vehemently countered what he described as unwarranted provocations by the United States. Argote argued that the U.S. actions are not genuinely aimed at curbing drug trafficking but are instead a strategic move to control Venezuela’s vast natural resources, including the world’s largest oil reserves, gold, and gas. Citing the latest UNODC World Drug Report, he highlighted that only five percent of cocaine leaving South America via the Pacific passes through Venezuela, with most of it being intercepted. The ambassador called for an end to what he termed U.S. aggression and urged Belize to stand in solidarity with Venezuela, a partner since 1989. He emphasized the long-standing diplomatic and cooperative ties between the two nations, referencing the Petrocaribe program, which has provided significant support to Belize. Argote stressed the need for understanding and solidarity in addressing Venezuela’s current geopolitical challenges.
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OECS installs free movement billboards in Grenada’s capital
In a significant move to bolster regional integration, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has unveiled two vibrant billboards in St. George’s, Grenada, as part of a broader public awareness campaign. This initiative, launched in collaboration with the OECS 11th EDF Regional Integration for Growth, Harmonisation, and Technology (RIGHT) Programme and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), marks the 44th anniversary of the OECS Economic Union. The billboards serve as a vivid reminder to Grenadians of their rights to free movement, residence, and employment across the OECS member states using only a valid national ID card.
During the unveiling ceremony, Grenada’s ambassador to CARICOM and OECS Commissioner, H.E. Aaron Moses, emphasized the profound impact of this integration. He highlighted that OECS citizens now enjoy unrestricted movement, indefinite stay, and access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and social security benefits. Representing the United Nations, Ms. Fiona Sandy, the UN Country Coordination Officer for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, lauded the OECS Commission and IOM for their efforts in promoting regional unity and resilience. She underscored the importance of this integration for the safety, security, and rights of Caribbean citizens.
The OECS Commission has also encouraged Grenadians to scan a QR code featured on the billboards to explore further details about their rights and opportunities under the free movement regime. This campaign not only commemorates a historic milestone but also reinforces the vision of shared prosperity and sustainability across the Caribbean region.
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US military strikes fifth suspected drug boat off Venezuelan coast
In a significant development, former President Donald Trump revealed on Tuesday that U.S. military forces executed a strike on a small vessel suspected of drug trafficking in international waters near Venezuela. The operation, announced via a post on Truth Social, resulted in the deaths of six individuals aboard the boat, with no reported casualties among U.S. personnel. This incident represents the fifth such lethal strike in the Caribbean, part of the Trump administration’s controversial policy of treating alleged drug traffickers as “unlawful combatants” subject to military intervention. Official figures indicate that at least 27 people have been killed across these operations. The escalating use of military force has drawn bipartisan criticism in Congress. While some Republicans are pressing the White House for a clearer legal rationale and operational details, Democrats argue that these strikes violate both U.S. and international laws. The debate intensified last week when the Senate rejected a war powers resolution aimed at restricting the administration from conducting further strikes without explicit congressional approval.
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Parliament should discuss US radar request to install radar at MBIA
The Government of Grenada is currently evaluating a request from the United States to install radar equipment at Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA). The proposal, submitted by the Trump administration, has sparked a national debate, with former Upper House President Chester Humphrey urging parliamentary involvement in the decision-making process. Humphrey, a seasoned political figure with over two decades of service in the Labour Movement, emphasized the importance of legislative oversight, stating, ‘Parliament needs to meet on this matter before any commitments are made to the Americans.’ The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the request, noting that technical consultations with the Grenada Airports Authority (GAA) and other agencies are underway. The government assured citizens that public safety and the protection of the tourism industry would guide any decisions. Humphrey also cautioned against politicizing the issue, urging bipartisan support for the government. The outcome of this deliberation could have significant implications for Grenada’s international relations and domestic security.
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Chinese Ambassador Bids Farewell with Cultural Celebration
In a heartfelt farewell ceremony, outgoing Chinese Ambassador H.E. Zhang Yanling expressed mixed emotions as she concluded her four-year tenure in Antigua and Barbuda. Describing her departure as “bittersweet,” Ambassador Zhang reflected on the profound diplomatic and cultural bonds forged during her time in the Caribbean nation. The event, attended by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Cabinet members, and fellow diplomats, served as a testament to the enduring partnership between China and Antigua and Barbuda. Ambassador Zhang extended her gratitude to the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda for their unwavering warmth and collaboration, emphasizing the “valuable” friendship that has flourished between the two nations. She reiterated China’s steadfast support for Antigua and Barbuda’s sovereignty and development, while also commending the country’s commitment to the One China Principle. The farewell celebration was enlivened by vibrant cultural performances, including steelpan music by Khan Cordice, a Mandarin song by a teacher from the Sir Novelle Richards Academy, and a traditional dance by the Elite Dance Company. Visibly moved, Ambassador Zhang expressed her deep affection for the nation, stating that Antigua and Barbuda would “always have a special place” in her heart. The event underscored the lasting impact of her diplomatic efforts and the enduring ties between the two countries.