The United Nations System is set to mark its 80th anniversary with a vibrant public fair titled “UN Fair: 80 Years Building the Future!” The event will take place on October 17 and 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Publishing Pavilion in the Plaza de la Cultura, Santo Domingo. Open to all, the fair aims to engage citizens, particularly youth and families, in exploring the UN’s global and national contributions through a variety of activities, including exhibitions, interactive spaces, and panel discussions. These will highlight eight decades of collaboration between the UN and the Dominican Republic, emphasizing themes such as peace, equality, sustainability, and human rights. The two-day celebration will feature a diverse program of artistic performances, storytelling, and interactive experiences designed to educate and inspire. The event is supported by key national institutions, including the Presidency of the Republic, the Ministries of Culture and Education, PLERD-MINERD, the UNESCO Associated Schools Network, and the Mayor’s Office of the National District. Additionally, private sector and civil society partners such as Mercasid Group, the Association of Multiple Banks (ABA), KahKow, “El Sistema de Punta Cana,” and FUNDARMONIARTES have joined the initiative. Julia del Carmen Sánchez, UN Resident Coordinator in the Dominican Republic, emphasized that the fair aims to empower citizens, especially young people, as agents of change while celebrating the enduring partnership between the UN and the Dominican Republic in fostering sustainable development and equal opportunities.
分类： society
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Houten woning gaat in vlammen op te Balingsula
A devastating fire engulfed a small wooden house in the vicinity of Balingsula, located in the Brokopondo district, on Sunday. The Brokopondo police were alerted to the incident and promptly arrived at the scene for investigation. Upon arrival, they discovered that the single-story wooden residence, along with all its contents, had been completely consumed by flames. Fortunately, the occupants were not present at the time of the fire, as confirmed by the police Public Relations team. The house, which was connected to the local electricity grid, was not insured against fire damage. The Brownsweg fire department, upon reaching the site, could only perform post-fire containment operations. No personal injuries were reported in the incident. The Forensic Investigation Department has since visited the property to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown at this time.
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3-jarig jongetje verdrinkt tijdens badmoment in Kajapatie
A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Sunday evening in the village of Kajapatie, where three-year-old Morjello Vaniel tragically drowned. The Atjoni police station received a report of the incident around 10:05 PM. Initial investigations revealed that the young boy had been bathing in a river near the village earlier that evening, around 6:00 PM, under the supervision of his aunt. At some point, Morjello went missing from sight. Despite immediate search efforts, only his underwear was initially found. The search resumed on Monday morning, leading to the recovery of the toddler’s lifeless body. Following consultation with the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the remains were handed over to the grieving family.
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SRK pleit voor VN-verdrag ter bescherming bij rampen
On the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, October 13, the Surinamese Red Cross (SRK) has issued a compelling call for a robust global legal framework to better protect individuals during disasters. This appeal aligns with the United Nations’ resolution to develop the first international treaty aimed at safeguarding people in disaster scenarios, which is slated for completion by 2027. According to the SRK, this treaty represents a historic opportunity to enhance international cooperation, accelerate the efficiency of humanitarian aid, and encourage nations to invest more in disaster prevention. Melvin Tjon Sie Fat, Chairman of the SRK, emphasized, ‘When disaster strikes, every second counts. People have the right to protection, dignity, and swift assistance. This treaty can save lives by organizing aid more effectively and removing obstacles.’ The urgency for such a treaty is underscored by the fact that in 2024 alone, over 146 million people globally were affected by disasters—an 11% increase compared to the five-year average—with economic damages amounting to $310 billion. Suriname, too, is increasingly feeling the impact of disasters, with floods, storms, and climate change effects threatening communities, particularly vulnerable groups. The proposed UN treaty emphasizes the importance of preparation and prevention, advocating for investments in risk reduction measures such as sustainable infrastructure, early warning systems, and strong local networks. The SRK has been collaborating with national and international partners to bolster the resilience of Surinamese communities through disaster preparedness training, strengthening local volunteer networks, and raising awareness about climate risks. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) supports over 95 governments worldwide in improving disaster legislation, with national associations like the SRK playing a pivotal role. ‘Our volunteers are on the front lines when aid is most needed. A solid legal framework ensures they can act swiftly, are better protected, and can deliver aid more effectively,’ Tjon Sie Fat added. The SRK is urging the Surinamese government to actively support the UN process and work with other nations to create a strong and equitable treaty. ‘Disasters don’t wait—and neither should our actions. This treaty is a chance to translate international solidarity into concrete protection of human lives,’ Tjon Sie Fat concluded. Additionally, the SRK is calling on schools, youth organizations, and community institutions to actively involve young people in disaster preparedness, ensuring that everyone, young and old, can contribute to a more resilient Suriname.
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Mother Heartbroken After Early-Morning Car Break-In Outside Little Canton Supermarket
A young mother is grappling with emotional and financial distress after her car was broken into early Monday morning outside the Little Canton Supermarket. The incident, which occurred around 3:30 a.m., left her vehicle ransacked and several valuable items stolen. Among the missing belongings were a red purse containing cash, identification cards, a driver’s license, social security and medical cards, and a Jamaican bank card. Additionally, thieves took irreplaceable keepsakes, including IDs belonging to her late grandfather, which she described as ‘deeply sentimental.’ The victim is now faced with the daunting task of replacing her vital documents while coping with the emotional toll of losing cherished mementos. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the theft, but the incident has left the community on edge. The young mother’s ordeal highlights the broader issue of vehicle break-ins and the profound impact such crimes can have on individuals and families.
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Officer, sergeant transferred from Police Academy for “inappropriate conduct”
In a significant development at the Guyana Police Force Academy’s Georgetown campus, an officer and three sergeants have been reassigned following allegations of “inappropriate conduct.” The Guyana Police Force confirmed the transfers, emphasizing that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness. The investigation, led by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), has concluded, with statements collected from several Academy staff members and recruits. The case file is set to be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution on October 13, 2025, for further legal guidance. The OPR, which reports directly to the Police Commissioner, initiated the probe after the incidents were brought to the Commissioner’s attention. This move underscores the Police Force’s commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability within its ranks. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for the institution’s internal governance and public trust.
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Mexico Floods Leave 47 Dead, Dozens Missing
Mexico is grappling with a devastating humanitarian crisis as torrential rains from Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond have caused catastrophic floods and landslides, leaving at least 47 people dead and 38 others missing. The states of Veracruz, Hidalgo, and Puebla have been the hardest hit, with Veracruz reporting 18 fatalities, Hidalgo 16, and Puebla 12. Rescue operations are underway, with the Mexican Army, Air Force, and National Guard mobilizing to deliver essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid, to affected areas. In some regions of Veracruz, floodwaters surged to over 12 feet after rivers overflowed, exacerbating the destruction. President Claudia Sheinbaum visited the impacted towns on Sunday to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts. The Civil Protection agency has confirmed the ongoing search for missing individuals, while rescue teams work tirelessly to evacuate residents and provide emergency care. The dual tropical systems have now dissipated, but the aftermath continues to pose significant challenges for recovery and rebuilding.
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Message from the Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service
On the occasion of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, the Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service (ABMS) emphasized the critical importance of investing in resilience rather than disaster response. This year’s theme, ‘Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,’ highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of natural hazards. The ABMS has been instrumental in safeguarding lives and property through its multi-hazard early warning system, as demonstrated during Tropical Storm Jerry. However, the flooding of the ABMS office during the storm underscored the urgent necessity for a climate-resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather events. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other global institutions, every $1 invested in early warning systems can yield returns of $10 to $15 by reducing losses and enhancing economic stability. The Global Commission on Adaptation estimates a cost-benefit ratio of 1:9, while the WMO suggests that an $800 million investment in developing countries could prevent $3 to $16 billion in annual losses. The ABMS Director called for sustained investment in people, technology, and resilient infrastructure to ensure the continued effectiveness of early warning systems in protecting lives and livelihoods for future generations.
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Schools can address health, safety issues internally first. Here’s how, says official
Deputy Chief Education Officer Julia Beckles emphasized the importance of proactive health and safety committees in Barbados’ schools during a session at the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College on Monday. Addressing over 130 educators, Beckles highlighted that many health and safety concerns could be resolved internally at the school level, reducing the need for ministry or union intervention. Her remarks follow last year’s disruptions, where teachers staged walkouts over environmental and safety issues, leading to temporary school closures in some cases. Beckles urged schools to foster a collaborative culture on safety, ensuring that committees function effectively to address problems before they escalate. While all schools have legally mandated health and safety committees, Beckles noted that not all are operating at full capacity. She stressed the need for these committees to be more active and engaged, particularly in addressing issues like rodent infestations through education and preventive measures. Beckles also underscored the ministry’s commitment to supporting these teams as part of Barbados’ broader education transformation efforts, which aim to modernize school environments with a focus on health and safety. As the country observes Caribbean Safety Week, Beckles called for renewed energy in creating a culture of safety in schools, encouraging committees to conduct regular meetings and inspections even in the absence of immediate problems.
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Youth leadership push as Mr Executive Challenge 2026 launches
The Barbados Entrepreneurship Foundation has relaunched its youth entrepreneurship competition, the Mr Executive Challenge 2026, with an expanded format and a historic milestone: the inclusion of the Barbados Seventh-day Adventist School as the first private school participant in the event’s history. The initiative, unveiled at the Solidarity House auditorium on Monday, aims to foster innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills among students. The launch event brought together educators, entrepreneurs, and past participants to highlight the programme’s broader scope and enhanced offerings. Winston Cumberbatch, founder of the Mr. Executive and Gentleman’s Challenge, emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent, stating, “Every great business starts with a small, brave step.” Celeste Foster, Executive Chair of the foundation, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to empowering youth: “Our mission remains to create opportunities where youth can explore, experiment, and execute their ideas.” David Simpson, President of the Barbados Small Business Association, praised the competition for equipping students with essential business and leadership skills, while marketing specialist Michelle Whitelaw encouraged participants to view the challenge as a transformative journey. The 2026 edition will feature leadership workshops, team-building sessions, mentorship opportunities, and final business presentations, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of youth entrepreneurship in Barbados.