Carib Scope

分类： society

  • National Young Voices for Wetlands Competition Launched for World Wetlands Day 2026

    National Young Voices for Wetlands Competition Launched for World Wetlands Day 2026

    A groundbreaking national creative competition has been unveiled in Antigua and Barbuda to engage youth in environmental conservation through artistic expression. The EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN), in collaboration with the Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project, has initiated the Creative Young Voices for Wetlands Competition in anticipation of World Wetlands Day 2026.

    Aligned with the global theme “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” the initiative challenges students to explore the profound interconnection between wetland ecosystems and community identity through creative mediums. Participants across various age groups can submit entries in three distinct categories: creative writing, photography, and visual arts.

    The competition framework encourages youth to produce original works—including poetry, short stories, essays, drawings, digital art, and paintings—that reflect on wetlands’ multifaceted value to health, economy, environment, and cultural preservation. Submission acceptance commenced recently and will continue through January 26, 2026, providing an extended creative engagement period during the upcoming academic year.

    Wetlands represent critically productive ecosystems that deliver indispensable services including coastal storm protection, erosion control, habitat provision for endangered species, carbon sequestration, freshwater filtration, and cultural enrichment. Throughout the Caribbean region, mangroves and wetland systems serve as vital barriers safeguarding coastal communities while maintaining ecological balance.

    Winning entries will be selected based on creative originality, cultural relevance, and adherence to ESFN’s core pillar of Expression. Successful participants will receive recognition and prizes, with all shortlisted works featured in ESFN’s Endeavour Publication and promoted across partner platforms. The announcement of winners will coincide with World Wetlands Day celebrations on February 2, 2026.

    This collaborative effort between ESFN—a nonprofit dedicated to sustainability and youth development across Small Island Developing States—and the IUCN-implemented Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project aims to cultivate environmental stewardship among younger generations while highlighting traditional ecological knowledge.

    Detailed submission guidelines and entry portal access are available through the official competition link: https://qrco.de/bgYRqF

  • Berklee in Santo Domingo 2026 concludes with 43 scholarships awarded

    Berklee in Santo Domingo 2026 concludes with 43 scholarships awarded

    SANTO DOMINGO – The 2026 Berklee International Academic Program concluded its intensive musical training week with a spectacular finale concert at the Carlos Piantini Hall within the Eduardo Brito National Theater this past Saturday. The event showcased the remarkable artistic development of nearly 200 meticulously selected students from across the Dominican Republic.

    In a subsequent formal ceremony, 43 exceptional musicians were granted prestigious scholarships for advanced studies at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music. The cohort included 30 scholars from the National Conservatory of Music. A standout moment occurred when Ángel Sánchez Volquez was honored with the distinguished Michel Camilo Scholarship, recognizing extraordinary musical promise.

    The closing events were attended by prominent cultural and academic leaders, including Culture Minister Roberto Ángel Salcedo and high-ranking officials from Berklee College of Music, underscoring the program’s significant institutional support.

    Organized through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture, the General Directorate of Fine Arts, the National Conservatory of Music, and Berklee College of Music, the program ran from January 5th to 10th. This initiative, bolstered by both public and private partnerships, has firmly established itself as a vital catalyst for nurturing the next generation of Dominican musical talent and fortifying international educational connections in the arts.

  • DGM opens recruitment for immigration enforcement agents in northern region

    DGM opens recruitment for immigration enforcement agents in northern region

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant move to bolster national border security, the Dominican Republic’s General Directorate of Migration (DGM) has initiated a specialized recruitment campaign targeting young male citizens for immigration enforcement roles. The initiative specifically focuses on strengthening immigration control mechanisms in the country’s northern territories, which have experienced increased migration pressures in recent years.

    The recruitment drive, announced through official government channels, establishes strict eligibility criteria for prospective candidates. Applicants must be Dominican nationals aged 18-30 who have successfully completed secondary education. The DGM has emphasized additional mandatory requirements including specific physical conditioning standards, comprehensive medical fitness, and appropriate documentation verification.

    Unlike previous recruitment cycles, this initiative remains exclusively available to male applicants, reflecting the agency’s strategic staffing decisions. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous evaluation processes scheduled for January 14th at the Santiago Governor’s Office, with proceedings commencing at 8:30 AM. The DGM has mandated in-person attendance for all assessment phases, underscoring the hands-on nature of immigration enforcement work.

    This recruitment effort represents part of broader governmental measures to enhance border management capabilities amid increasing regional migration patterns. The northern region’s strategic importance as both a transit point and destination for migration flows has prompted authorities to allocate additional resources to immigration infrastructure and personnel.

  • Casa del Cordón opens 2026 with discussion on the mysteries of the Cotton Cemí

    Casa del Cordón opens 2026 with discussion on the mysteries of the Cotton Cemí

    SANTO DOMINGO – The Casa del Cordón Taíno Cultural Center, a flagship initiative of Banco Popular Dominicano, will inaugurate its 2026 cultural calendar on Wednesday, January 14, at 7:00 p.m. with a pioneering academic symposium titled “The Twin of the Cotton Cemí: New Ways of Understanding Its Mysteries.” The event, set in the center’s historic courtyard, will be moderated by distinguished cultural advisor José Enrique Delmonte.

    This high-level discussion will feature two preeminent scholars: Bernardo Vega, renowned economist, historian, and anthropologist, alongside Manuel García Arévalo, prominent historian, archaeologist, and president of the García Arévalo Foundation. The symposium represents a continuation of dialogues initiated in August 2025, exploring how cutting-edge technological innovations—including 3D digitization, virtual modeling, and interactive visualization platforms—have revolutionized both academic research and public engagement with this iconic Taíno artifact, based on groundbreaking studies conducted by the University of Turin.

    These advanced digital methodologies enable unprecedented technical and symbolic analysis of the cotton cemí while democratizing access to its digital replica, eliminating the necessity for physical travel to Europe where the original artifact is housed. This initiative perfectly aligns with the cultural center’s core mission to foster the study, conservation, and dissemination of Hispaniola’s indigenous heritage.

    Housed within one of the New World’s most ancient stone structures, the center maintains a permanent exhibition featuring over 350 pre-Hispanic archaeological pieces from the García Arévalo Foundation. Through its dynamic programming of discussions, exhibitions, and educational initiatives, Casa del Cordón continues to establish itself as a premier interdisciplinary space where historical preservation, technological innovation, and community engagement converge to enhance cultural awareness and heritage conservation.

  • Justice : Damning report on detention conditions at Fort-Liberté

    Justice : Damning report on detention conditions at Fort-Liberté

    A shocking humanitarian crisis is unfolding within Haiti’s prison system, according to a devastating report released by the Haitian NGO Association of Volunteers for the Reintegration of Inmates (AVRED). The organization’s December 2025 investigation revealed that 312 inmates incarcerated at Fort-Liberté’s two detention facilities are enduring conditions that systematically strip them of basic human dignity and essential healthcare services.

    The comprehensive assessment documents a multi-faceted institutional failure affecting both convicted individuals (279) and those awaiting trial (33). Beyond mere deprivation of liberty, detainees face critical shortages in medical staffing with only one physician serving the entire population, supported by just three nurses and two psychology interns operating without necessary resources. The near-total absence of essential medications creates a dangerous environment where communicable diseases including tuberculosis, malaria, HIV/AIDS, and scabies spread unchecked due to inadequate isolation protocols.

    Infrastructure deficiencies compound the health emergency, with investigators reporting cracked walls, complete electrical system failure, overcrowded cells, non-functional water systems, and overflowing septic tanks. These hazardous conditions are exacerbated by severe understaffing among prison personnel, increasing risks of violence and tension within the facilities.

    Nutritional provisions fail to meet basic standards, with merely two cooks attempting to serve 300 individuals. The resulting meals lack essential nutrients, particularly damaging for inmates suffering from chronic illnesses and further compromising already weakened immune systems.

    The crisis extends to judicial rights, as the absence of functional transportation prevents both emergency hospital transfers and court appearances. This institutional failure results in unjustified extensions of pretrial detention, effectively punishing individuals before conviction.

    AVRED concludes that the Fort-Liberté situation represents a collective societal failure rather than merely a prison administration problem. The organization urgently calls for immediate intervention from national and international partners, substantial reinforcement of health and logistics systems, and comprehensive infrastructure rehabilitation to ensure basic safety and human rights protections.

  • Public Ministry creates canine unit to search for missing persons and recover bodies

    Public Ministry creates canine unit to search for missing persons and recover bodies

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant move to bolster forensic investigative capabilities, the Dominican Republic’s Superior Council of the Public Ministry has formally authorized the establishment of a specialized Canine Unit. This strategic initiative is designed to enhance efforts in locating missing persons and recovering human remains, addressing a critical need in the nation’s law enforcement and forensic services.

    The newly formed unit will operate under the technical supervision of the National Institute of Forensic Pathology (Inacif). Its deployment will follow strict operational protocols, coordinating with various state agencies to ensure comprehensive investigative support. The decision was finalized during the Thirteenth Ordinary Session on January 8, presided over by Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso alongside other high-ranking officials from the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

    International partnerships will play a vital role in the unit’s development, with foreign cooperation being secured for the specialized training of handlers and canine teams. In a commitment to ethical standards, authorities have pledged full compliance with Law 248-12 on Animal Protection. A specific care protocol is being developed to guarantee the welfare, proper treatment, and humane conditions for the dogs integral to the unit’s operations. This initiative reflects the government’s dedication to modernizing its public safety services and delivering more effective results for society.

  • iciHaïti – 2010 Earthquake : Speech by the Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities

    iciHaïti – 2010 Earthquake : Speech by the Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities

    Sixteen years after Haiti’s catastrophic 7.3-magnitude earthquake, the nation continues to honor the memory of the tragedy while reaffirming its commitment to disability inclusion. On the anniversary of the January 12, 2010 disaster that claimed approximately 300,000 lives and left hundreds of thousands injured, Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities Génard Joseph delivered a poignant address recognizing the enduring impact on Haitian society.

    The seismic event, lasting merely 35 seconds but resulting in over 280,000 fatalities and 1.6 million displaced persons, fundamentally transformed Haiti’s social landscape. Secretary Joseph emphasized how the tragedy exposed the profound vulnerabilities faced by individuals with disabilities while simultaneously revealing their remarkable resilience and determination.

    In his commemorative speech, Joseph declared the government’s unwavering dedication to improving living conditions for disabled citizens through collaborative efforts with disability organizations, civil society groups, and international partners. The administration’s focus includes enhancing access to essential services, promoting socioeconomic and educational integration, and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.

    The Secretary framed disability inclusion as both a moral imperative and political responsibility for the Haitian state, noting that the earthquake’s legacy necessitates continuous action toward building a more equitable society. His address called for national solidarity in creating a Haiti where human dignity remains paramount and no citizen faces exclusion.

    Joseph’s remarks highlighted how the collective memory of the disaster serves as both a tribute to those lost and an inspiration for constructing a more inclusive future. The anniversary observance underscores Haiti’s ongoing journey from tragedy toward transformation, with disability rights at the forefront of national recovery efforts.

  • National District collects over 4 million bottles in sixth “Plastics for Toys” event

    National District collects over 4 million bottles in sixth “Plastics for Toys” event

    Santo Domingo has achieved a remarkable environmental milestone with its latest “Plastics for Toys” initiative, gathering an impressive 4,023,865 plastic bottles in a single day. The event, meticulously organized by the National District Mayor’s Office, marks the sixth edition of this transformative program that has now surpassed 37 million bottles collected across all editions, including both “Plastics for Toys” and “Plastics for Schoolchildren” campaigns.

    Mayor Carolina Mejía emphasized the dual impact of the program, noting how it simultaneously generates environmental benefits while bringing joy to the community’s children. “This initiative represents our commitment to both environmental stewardship and social development,” Mejía stated during the event at the Municipal Palace. She particularly acknowledged the crucial role of private sector partners in sustaining the program’s success over multiple years.

    The recognition ceremony highlighted several key corporate supporters including Propagas, Banco Popular, Banreservas, Café Santo Domingo, and Banco BHD for their ongoing commitment to the city’s environmental goals. The event’s security and operational success was ensured by a deployment of more than 350 security and emergency personnel from various public and private institutions, creating a safe environment for all participants.

    This latest edition demonstrates the powerful synergy between municipal leadership and corporate social responsibility, establishing a replicable model for environmental education and waste management initiatives. The program’s continued growth positions it as the Dominican Republic’s most significant environmental awareness campaign, showcasing how public-private partnerships can effectively address both ecological challenges and community needs.

  • Bestuurder aangehouden met drugs na vlucht bij politiecontrole

    Bestuurder aangehouden met drugs na vlucht bij politiecontrole

    In a significant law enforcement operation on Saturday, Moengo Station police successfully apprehended a suspect for alleged violations of the Netherlands’ Narcotics Law. The incident unfolded when authorities at the Stolkertsijver checkpoint reported that a driver operating a Toyota Vitz had refused vehicle inspection and fled at high speed toward Moengo.

    Acting swiftly on this intelligence, Moengo police established strategic positions along the East-West Connection roadway to intercept the suspect vehicle. According to Police Region East officials, the target vehicle was identified shortly thereafter, and the driver complied with police signals to stop.

    A comprehensive search of the automobile revealed a substantial quantity of illicit narcotics and associated drug paraphernalia concealed within the vehicle. The driver, identified by authorities as V.E.G., was immediately designated as a formal suspect and taken into custody.

    The suspect, along with all confiscated narcotics and related evidence, has been transferred to the Narcotics Division for further investigation. Following consultation with the Public Prosecutor’s Office, V.E.G. has been formally remanded into police custody pending further judicial proceedings.

  • Armed Robbery Caught on Camera

    Armed Robbery Caught on Camera

    Orange Walk Town authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation following a brazen armed robbery at a local 24-hour gas station last Friday afternoon. The incident, which involved two female attendants being threatened at gunpoint, was captured in chilling detail by the establishment’s surveillance system.

    Security footage reveals two masked individuals arriving on a black scooter, immediately approaching the fuel pumps where the employees were stationed. One assailant brandished a firearm, pressing it directly against the head of one attendant while demanding immediate access to cash reserves.

    Under explicit threat of violence, both attendants were compelled to surrender their monetary pouches containing approximately $2,000 in total revenue. The perpetrators, described as slender-built males, subsequently fled the scene on their two-wheeled vehicle heading in an unknown direction.

    Police officials confirmed that despite the traumatic nature of the event, neither attendant sustained physical injuries during the confrontation. Investigators are currently examining the CCTV footage and pursuing multiple leads regarding the suspects’ identities and whereabouts. The incident has raised concerns about security protocols at round-the-clock service establishments throughout the region.