分类: society

  • Serious accusations — but does the US report tell the full story?

    Serious accusations — but does the US report tell the full story?

    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Barbados must address gaps in its anti-trafficking framework, including updating its national action plan and revising outdated provisions in the Trafficking in Persons Prevention Act.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.

  • Barbuda Council Denies Responsibility for Codrington Landfill Fire, Urges Public to Report Perpetrators

    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.

  • DCA Halts Construction of Controversial Church Statue on All Saints Road

    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.

  • VC Bird Airport Advises Travelers of Water Main Repairs Affecting Terminal Area

    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.

  • Ministry of Works Marks Major Progress in National Road Upgrades

    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.

  • World’s Largest Floating Bookfair to Return to Antigua Next Month

    World’s Largest Floating Bookfair to Return to Antigua Next Month

    Book enthusiasts in Antigua and Barbuda are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the MV Logos Hope, the world’s largest floating bookfair, which is scheduled to dock next month. Originally planned for October, the visit was slightly delayed, but the excitement remains undiminished. The vessel boasts an impressive onboard bookstore with over 5,000 titles spanning diverse genres such as science, medicine, cookery, sports, hobbies, and children’s literature. Additionally, academic resources and language learning materials will be available at budget-friendly prices. Beyond its vast book collection, the Logos Hope is renowned for fostering cultural exchange and diversity. During its port visits, the ship’s crew organizes a variety of events, performances, and educational programs aimed at promoting community engagement and global understanding. Organizers are committed to ensuring accessibility for all residents, with specific details about the ship’s arrival date, location, and visiting hours to be announced soon. This unique initiative promises to be a cultural and educational highlight for the islands.

  • Stolen Vehicle Alert

    Stolen Vehicle Alert

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Authorities in Nassau are urgently seeking the public’s assistance in locating two vehicles reported stolen over the weekend. The first incident occurred on Friday, October 3, 2025, when a charcoal gray 2019 Honda CR-V with license plate #DA3662 was taken from West Bay Street. The following day, Saturday, October 4, 2025, a white 2025 Changan Uni T bearing license plate #DD00179 was stolen from Windsor Place Road. Police have launched investigations into both cases and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Individuals can contact emergency services at 911 or 919, visit their nearest police station, or reach out to the Criminal Investigation Department directly at 502-9991. For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through CRIME STOPPERS at 328-TIPS (8477). The public’s cooperation is crucial in resolving these incidents and preventing further criminal activity.

  • Man in his 40s arrested for gun possession

    Man in his 40s arrested for gun possession

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS — In a significant development on Saturday, 4th October 2025, law enforcement officers from Operation Black Scorpion apprehended a 46-year-old man after uncovering an illegal firearm. The incident unfolded in the early hours of the morning when officers, acting on a search warrant, conducted a raid at a residence located on Windsor Lane. During the operation, a loaded firearm was discovered and subsequently seized, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspect. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to uncover further details surrounding the case. Operation Black Scorpion, a collaborative effort between the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, continues to play a pivotal role in combating crime and ensuring public safety across the region.

  • National Police seized more than 1,700 motorcycles in Santiago during operations in the last 30 days.

    National Police seized more than 1,700 motorcycles in Santiago during operations in the last 30 days.

    In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, the Cibao Central Regional Directorate of the National Police, led by General Jiménez Reinoso, has seized more than 1,700 motorcycles in Santiago over the past 30 days. The operations, aimed at enhancing public safety, targeted various violations, including lack of proper documentation, involvement in illegal racing, and tampering with chassis and license plates. Additionally, authorities confiscated firearms, knives, and controlled substances, suggesting that some motorcyclists were engaged in criminal behavior. Notably, over 20 of the seized motorcycles have been returned to their rightful owners after being reported stolen. The National Police has urged motorcycle owners to ensure their documents are up to date and to adhere to legal requirements to avoid complications and contribute to community safety.

  • CARICOM lawyers ‘must meet Barbados Bar requirements’

    CARICOM lawyers ‘must meet Barbados Bar requirements’

    The Barbados Bar Association has issued a definitive statement emphasizing that all legal professionals intending to practice in Barbados under the newly implemented CARICOM cross-border initiative must comply with the country’s established legal entry and registration protocols, irrespective of their nationality. This announcement follows the activation of the initiative on Wednesday, which grants citizens of Barbados, Dominica, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Belize indefinite rights to reside, work, and study in Barbados. Bar President Kaye Williams addressed concerns raised by professionals regarding the initiative’s implementation, reaffirming Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s position on the matter. Williams underscored that while the Bar Association supports regional freedom of movement, all attorneys-at-law and law firms, whether CARICOM nationals or not, must adhere to Barbados’ legislative requirements for professional practice. Quoting Prime Minister Mottley, Williams highlighted that the initiative does not exempt professionals from following the rules governing their respective fields. She specifically referenced the Professional Services Registration Act and the Profession Trade and Business Registration Act, which mandate that lawyers and other regulated professionals obtain valid practicing certificates and register with the Registrar of the Supreme Court. Williams also noted that these requirements apply to a broad spectrum of professions, including medical practitioners, accountants, architects, and journalists, among others. The initiative marks a historic step in regional integration, offering citizens of the four participating states access to social, educational, and health benefits equivalent to those of Barbados’ citizens.