Since the dawn of the 21st century, the world has undergone profound economic and political transformations, reshaping global economies, societal structures, and labor markets. These shifts, often driven by the decisions of superpower nations, have ignited trade wars and intensified competition over critical resources such as land, oil, and minerals, fostering a new era of neocolonialism. Amid these changes, trade unions have faced scrutiny for their perceived silence on these pressing issues. While international trade union organizations have voiced concerns, the muted response from developing nations—many reliant on first-world support—raises questions about their ability to safeguard labor rights and employment gains. Critics argue that unions may be either hesitant to challenge powerful entities or disconnected from the global developments threatening workers’ welfare. The hostile legal and political environments in many countries, marked by anti-union legislation and measures criminalizing union activities, further complicate their efforts. Even in democratic nations, unions struggle to address global challenges effectively. The rise of the gig economy and non-standard employment has further eroded traditional union structures, making it increasingly difficult to organize fragmented and vulnerable worker groups. Declining membership, particularly among younger workers who view unions as outdated, has diminished their influence and public visibility. As the nature of work continues to evolve, trade unions must confront these mounting challenges to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
分类： society
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Team Antigua Island Girls Present Uncharted Waters—an evening of untold stories from their historic Pacific Ocean row
Team Antigua Island Girls, the groundbreaking all-Black female rowing team, invites the public to an exclusive event titled ‘Uncharted Waters.’ This intimate evening, scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at the John E. St. Luce Financial and Conference Centre, will feature emotional storytelling and never-before-shared insights from their record-breaking 2023 Pacific Ocean crossing. The event begins at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. for a pre-show experience. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ‘Dadli Gyal,’ the boat that carried the team across 2,800 nautical miles over 47 days, sample the dehydrated meals that sustained the rowers, and participate in a raffle with prizes including a dinner for two at Jumby Bay. Tickets are priced at $150 for adults and $50 for youth under 16, available via the Ticketing app, Ken’s Club in Cassada Gardens, Kennedy’s in Powell’s, or SICON at the airport. All proceeds will support the establishment of a home for girls in conflict with the law, reflecting the team’s dedication to empowerment and social change. Team Antigua Island Girls, composed of Christal (author and swim instructor), Elvira (health and wellness coach), Kevinia (personal trainer and team captain), and Samara (Antigua and Barbuda’s first female boat captain), made history in 2018–2019 by rowing 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic. In 2023, Christal, Kevinia, and Samara took on the World’s Toughest Row—Pacific, inspiring global audiences with their determination and teamwork.
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Antigua & Barbuda Marks Arbor Day with Month-Long Push for Climate Resilience and Green Restoration
Arbor Day, observed internationally on November 16, stands as a powerful reminder of the critical role trees play in environmental sustainability and humanity’s duty to protect the planet. Communities worldwide commemorate this day by planting trees, revitalizing green spaces, and raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity. While the date may vary across countries, the core mission remains consistent: fostering a greener, healthier, and more resilient Earth.
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ABHTA Announces Nominees for Rising Star and Young Hotelier of the Year
The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Rising Star of the Year and Young Hotelier of the Year awards, set to be presented at the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Awards. These accolades aim to honor the next generation of leaders in the hospitality industry, celebrating their dedication and professionalism in enhancing service standards nationwide.
This year’s nominees hail from some of the country’s most renowned establishments, including Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, and Trade Winds Hotel. According to the ABHTA, these individuals embody the passion and excellence that drive Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector forward, contributing to elevated guest experiences and fostering industry-wide innovation.
The winners will be revealed on November 29, 2025, during the Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua under the theme “Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine.” The event is a collaborative effort between the ABHTA, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), highlighting the collective commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the hospitality industry.
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Employee and Supervisor of the Year Nominees Announced For 2025 Tourism Awards
Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry is gearing up for a grand celebration of excellence as the nominees for the 2025 Tourism Awards have been unveiled. The prestigious event, organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), is scheduled for November 29, 2025, at the luxurious Sandals Grande Antigua. Titled ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ the ceremony aims to honor the remarkable contributions of tourism professionals across the nation. Key categories include ‘Employee of the Year’ and ‘Supervisor of the Year,’ spotlighting individuals who have exhibited exceptional dedication, skill, and enthusiasm in their roles. The nominees hail from some of Antigua’s most renowned hospitality establishments, such as Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocobay Resort, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Hermitage Bay, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Siboney Beach Club, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, Trade Winds Hotel, and The Escape at Nonsuch Bay. The ABHTA emphasized that the awards are a tribute to the individuals who propel the success of the country’s leading industry and foster a culture of excellence. The winners will be announced during the gala, marking a significant milestone in the tourism calendar and a moment to reflect on the resilience and growth of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality sector.
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Education Director Urges Full Participation in OECS Student Census
Clare Browne, the Director of Education in Antigua and Barbuda, has passionately appealed to students, parents, and educators to actively support the upcoming 2025 OECS Student Census. Describing it as a pivotal initiative, Browne emphasized that the census transcends mere data collection, aiming instead to provide profound insights into how students ‘learn, live, and thrive’ within their educational environments. He highlighted that the findings will inform policy decisions focused on equity, quality, and inclusivity, ensuring the education system evolves to meet the diverse needs of students. The census, conducted by trained enumerators, guarantees a straightforward, confidential, and respectful process for all participants. Browne urged students to participate confidently and called on parents and educators to offer their unwavering support. ‘Together, we are shaping an education system that truly listens — one that responds to the needs, dreams, and voices of every child across the OECS,’ he stated. This initiative marks a significant step toward regional educational enhancement.
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Ministry of Works Reports Steady Progress on Community Road Projects
The Ministry of Works in Antigua and Barbuda has reported significant progress in its nationwide infrastructure development initiatives during October. Over 36,000 cubic feet of concrete were produced last month, facilitating the ongoing rehabilitation of roads, curbs, and drainage systems across multiple communities. In a recent update, the Ministry revealed that its concrete plant generated 36,585 cubic feet of poured concrete, enabling construction teams to accelerate their efforts in various districts. Preparations are also underway for the much-anticipated restoration of All Saints Road, a critical artery in the country. This project is being carefully coordinated with APUA’s national repiping initiative to ensure alignment and minimize disruptions to the public. A comprehensive update on the All Saints Road restoration is expected after next week’s Cabinet meeting. The Ministry expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the nation’s infrastructure. “The best is yet to come,” the statement concluded, signaling optimism for future developments.
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Couple’s Scottish wedding guests donate to animal charities
A Barbadian couple’s unconventional wedding in Scotland has turned into a significant boon for animal welfare charities in their home country. Jevan Jutagir, founder of Red Advertising & Marketing, and his bride, Danielle St-Pierre, tied the knot at the historic King’s College Chapel in Aberdeen, a venue with personal significance for Jutagir, a former University of Aberdeen Student Union president. The ceremony, attended by guests from Barbados, Trinidad, and Canada, featured traditional Scottish kilts but broke from tradition in one key aspect: instead of receiving conventional wedding gifts, the couple asked their guests to donate to two Barbados-based animal welfare organizations, Ocean Acres Animal Sanctuary and Safe Cats of Barbados. The response was overwhelming, with donations totaling $15,000 (approximately £5,700). In a statement, Jutagir explained their decision, emphasizing their comfortable lifestyle and desire to channel their guests’ generosity toward a cause they deeply care about—animal welfare. The couple, who are passionate about animals and share their Barbados home with cats, tortoises, and even monkeys, highlighted the growing issue of unwanted pets and unchecked breeding in Barbados. They expressed hope that their initiative would inspire others to support these charities, which work tirelessly to rescue and rehome stray animals. The newlyweds described the donations as a meaningful start to their married life, thanking their guests for their generosity.
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Police officers complete UK-backed leadership course
A cohort of 30 officers from the Barbados Police Service achieved a significant milestone in their careers on Friday, graduating from the Police International Middle Management Training Programme. This intensive two-week leadership course, conducted in collaboration with the Durham Constabulary from northeast England, aimed to enhance people-centered leadership within Barbados’ policing framework. The graduation ceremony took place at the Regional Police Training Centre (RPTC) in Seawell, marking the culmination of their rigorous training. Chief Inspector Kevin Salter, Head of UK and International Training with the Durham Constabulary, delivered a compelling address to the graduates, urging them to embrace their roles as agents of change. He emphasized the importance of applying their newfound knowledge to inspire and lead their teams effectively. Salter shared a poignant personal story about the profound impact of mentorship, recounting the story of a former colleague, Gavin Smith, whose gratitude for his guidance underscored the lasting influence of compassionate leadership. Superintendent Stephen Herbert also spoke at the event, highlighting the critical role of leadership in the sustainability and success of any organization. He stressed that honesty and integrity are indispensable qualities for effective leaders, as they build trust and confidence among their teams. The graduates were encouraged to return to their stations with a renewed commitment to driving positive change and upholding the highest standards of policing in Barbados.
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Blackbelly sheep exports suspended as numbers plummet
Barbados has announced a temporary suspension of all exports of its indigenous Blackbelly sheep due to a severe decline in the population, as reported by Barbados TODAY. The Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) is spearheading efforts to revive a national registration scheme to address the crisis, with industry leaders emphasizing that no sheep can be spared for export until local numbers recover. Rommel Parris, President of Barbados Sheep Farmers Inc., confirmed the halt, citing critically low herd levels despite increasing regional demand. Parris revealed that he has repeatedly declined export requests from neighboring islands, including Antigua, Dominica, and Grenada, due to the dire state of Barbados’ sheep population. He expressed concern over the lack of quality breeding animals from Greenland Livestock Station, which has exacerbated the problem. The situation has been further complicated by dwindling interest among young people in sheep farming. Parris highlighted the urgent need to reintroduce a structured registration system to track and rebuild the national flock. The registration process, launched earlier this month, is being led by an internationally trained officer equipped with the necessary tools to assess sheep characteristics and growth. Parris emphasized that revitalizing the industry requires increased participation in sheep breeding, with a goal of encouraging five to six individuals annually to raise 20 sheep each. He expressed optimism that Barbados could eventually resume exports comfortably, drawing parallels to past successful export programs. The Barbados Blackbelly sheep remains globally respected for its resilience, adaptability, and high reproductive rates. The Ministry of Agriculture has also implemented training programs to educate farmers on best practices, further supporting recovery efforts.