In a significant move to comply with international regulations and societal norms, Shein, the global fast-fashion e-commerce giant, has announced the immediate cessation of sex doll sales on its platform. This decision comes in response to mounting pressure from French authorities, who had threatened to block the platform over concerns regarding the sale of such products. The French government argued that the availability of sex dolls on Shein’s platform violated national laws and ethical standards, prompting swift action from the company. Shein’s decision underscores the growing challenges faced by e-commerce platforms in navigating diverse legal and cultural landscapes across global markets. The company has emphasized its commitment to adhering to local regulations and maintaining a responsible marketplace. This development highlights the increasing scrutiny of online platforms by governments worldwide, particularly concerning products that raise ethical or legal concerns. Shein’s proactive response may serve as a precedent for other e-commerce platforms facing similar dilemmas.
分类： society
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City store closures overshadow Independence decorations, says Abed
The festive spirit of Independence Day in Bridgetown, Barbados, is being overshadowed by a surge of vacant shopfronts along Broad Street, with local merchants attributing the lack of patriotic displays to economic challenges rather than apathy. Eddy Abed, head of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce’s Revitalisation of Bridgetown Committee, emphasized that empty stores, not a lack of patriotism, are to blame for the subdued celebrations. ‘Vacant stores cannot show Independence or Christmas decorations because they are unoccupied,’ Abed explained. He urged a realistic assessment of Bridgetown’s evolving retail landscape, pointing to declining fortunes as the primary cause. Despite this, many businesses continue to showcase national pride by adorning their stores with blue, gold, and black decorations, blending Independence and Christmas celebrations. Abed highlighted the coexistence of these two events, stressing that neither should overshadow the other. Reflecting on the past, he noted that over half of Broad Street’s retail spaces now lie vacant, a stark contrast to its former vibrancy. The shift towards minimalist holiday decorations, both in Barbados and globally, reflects changing trends rather than a lack of participation. Abed’s comments came in response to Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams, who recently encouraged businesses to engage in Independence festivities. Abrahams acknowledged the challenges businesses face but emphasized the importance of celebrating national identity. Abed concluded by urging the public to view the two celebrations as complementary, not competing, events.
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Black River Hospital heroes plead for help
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which devastated St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, the heroic efforts of doctors, nurses, and hospital staff at Black River Hospital have come at a significant personal cost. Despite saving all 71 patients during the storm, many staff members now face homelessness, hunger, and exhaustion. Dr. Robert Powell, an emergency medicine resident, revealed the dire situation during a visit to the storm-ravaged facility. He shared that the hospital was left in ruins, with roofs torn off, wards flooded, and medical equipment destroyed. Beds, patient files, and furniture were scattered across the compound, leaving only a small section of the Accident and Emergency unit partially usable.
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Novella Payne Presented Grand Cross for Heritage Entrepreneurship and Community Service
For over 30 years, Mrs. Novella Payne has been a beacon of hope and dedication in Antigua and Barbuda, tirelessly serving the nation’s most vulnerable communities. Her exceptional contributions were recognized at the National Awards Ceremony, held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium during the country’s 44th Independence celebrations, where she was bestowed with the Grand Cross of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (GCH). This prestigious honor highlights her remarkable achievements in heritage entrepreneurship and community service. Payne’s impactful work spans multiple initiatives, including the Fines Institute Feeding Program and her outreach efforts with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. These programs have provided essential support—food, shelter, and personal care—to hundreds, particularly during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond her humanitarian efforts, Payne is the visionary founder of Grandma Aki’s Products, a venture that seamlessly blends entrepreneurship with cultural preservation. Her brand promotes traditional wellness through a sustainable line of natural Antiguan goods, empowering local farmers and preserving heritage. Her official citation lauds her enduring compassion, innovation, and integrity, stating that her efforts have “strengthened social welfare, supported economic growth, and inspired national pride.” Payne’s life and work stand as a testament to selfless service and the embodiment of Antiguan excellence.
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Athena Alexander-Browne Honoured for Exceptional Service in Education and Community Development
In a momentous ceremony held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium as part of Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence celebrations, Mrs. Alexandrina Athena Browne was bestowed with the Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GCM). This prestigious award recognizes her exceptional dedication to education and community development over five decades. Mrs. Browne, a revered educator and community leader, has been described as “a pillar of excellence in education and a beacon of service to her community and nation.” Her illustrious career includes transformative roles at Newfield Primary, Pearns Secondary, All Saints Secondary, and the Antigua and Barbuda International Institute of Technology and Hospitality Institute, where she mentored countless students with compassion and vision. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Browne has been a driving force in community service, dedicating herself to supporting the elderly, empowering youth, organizing health initiatives, and serving faithfully at St. Philip’s Anglican Church. Her unwavering commitment to human development and moral leadership has left an indelible mark on the social and moral fabric of the nation. This national honor celebrates her lifetime of selfless service and enduring impact on Antigua and Barbuda.
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Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Graham Honoured for Distinguished Military Service
Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Graham has been awarded the prestigious title of Officer of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (OH) in recognition of his exceptional contributions to national security and military leadership within the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF). The honor was bestowed during the National Awards Ceremony at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, a highlight of the nation’s 44th Independence celebrations. The official citation lauded Graham for his “exemplary service in the field of defence and national security,” highlighting his unwavering leadership, discipline, and professionalism throughout his distinguished career. Graham has been instrumental in enhancing the country’s security operations, elevating training standards, and improving disaster response capabilities. His command expertise and dedication have earned him widespread respect among colleagues and subordinates, while his mentorship has cultivated a new generation of skilled military officers. Described as “a model officer embodying courage, commitment, and patriotism,” Graham’s efforts have been pivotal in upholding the ABDF’s core values of service and integrity. This accolade serves as a national tribute to his decades of loyal service and steadfast commitment to safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda.
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“I Am TDC” Recruitment Fair
The much-anticipated ‘I Am TDC’ Recruitment Fair is set to take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 6:29 PM. This event, organized by TDC, aims to connect job seekers with a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. The fair is expected to attract a diverse pool of candidates, from recent graduates to experienced professionals, all eager to explore potential roles within the organization. TDC has emphasized its commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive workplace, making this event a pivotal moment for both the company and prospective employees. Attendees will have the chance to engage with recruiters, participate in on-the-spot interviews, and gain insights into TDC’s corporate culture and values. The ‘I Am TDC’ Recruitment Fair underscores the organization’s dedication to talent acquisition and its vision for future growth.
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Veteran Nurse Claire West Honoured for Five Decades of Service
Nurse Claire Althea Frances West has been awarded the Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GCM) in recognition of her exceptional contributions to nursing and community development in Antigua and Barbuda. This prestigious honor was bestowed during the National Awards Ceremony at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, held as part of the nation’s 44th Independence celebrations. With over five decades of service, Nurse West has become a beacon of compassion and professionalism in the healthcare sector. Starting her career in 1972 at the Holberton Hospital, she served across multiple departments, including the Children’s Ward, Operating Theatre, and Casualty Department, earning widespread respect for her dedication and leadership. Beyond her clinical work, West has been instrumental in community health outreach and mentorship, shaping the next generation of nurses and advocating for excellence in patient care. Her enduring impact on public health and her unwavering commitment to the community have solidified her legacy as a cornerstone of Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare system.
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Zona Bartley Honoured for Lifelong Service to Youth Leadership and Community Development
Mrs. Zona Iotha Isilma Bartley has been bestowed with the prestigious Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GCM) in recognition of her exceptional contributions to community service and youth development in Antigua and Barbuda. This distinguished accolade was conferred during the National Awards Ceremony held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, marking the nation’s 44th Independence celebrations.
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Final Call: IHO Nature Rangers Biodiversity Conservation Photo Contest Closes November 15th, 2025
Young nature enthusiasts in Antigua and Barbuda have just 12 days remaining to submit their entries for the IHO Nature Rangers Biodiversity and Conservation Photography Contest. Open to individuals aged 13 to 24, the competition encourages participants to showcase the stunning biodiversity of Antigua and Barbuda, from its mangroves and coral reefs to its wildlife and coastal landscapes. The contest is a key component of the broader initiative, ‘Strengthening Conservation Actions in the North East Marine Management Area (NEMMA) in Antigua and Barbuda,’ which seeks to foster environmental stewardship and youth engagement through hands-on conservation activities, skill development, and community involvement. The submission deadline is November 15, 2025, with winners announced on December 1, 2025. Prizes include XCD $300 for first place, XCD $200 for second place, and XCD $100 for third place. Participants are urged to explore and photograph the nation’s diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, coral reefs, and native species, while adhering to the theme of biodiversity and conservation. Parental guidance is recommended for younger entrants. This contest is part of a series of youth-focused activities under the NEMMA conservation project, which also includes litter prevention initiatives, illegal dumping monitoring, community cleanups, mangrove restoration training, gender sensitization workshops, biodiversity education, and recreational exploration. These efforts aim to cultivate environmental leadership and build a community committed to protecting Antigua and Barbuda’s ecosystems. The IHO Nature Rangers, a registered organization dedicated to biodiversity conservation and youth empowerment, encourages eligible participants to seize this opportunity to creatively express their love for nature and contribute to a growing movement of environmental awareness. Through activities like mangrove tours, cleanups, media engagement, and skill development, the Nature Rangers empower young people to turn their passion for nature into meaningful action. The NEMMA project is funded by the Critical Ecosystems Partnership Fund (CEPF) and the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute – Regional Implementation Team (CANARI-RIT), and implemented by the IHO Nature Rangers with support from Integrated Health Outreach (IHO).