The Global South Academic Forum, a gathering of over 200 participants from 29 countries, served as a platform for critical discussions on cultural hegemony, global peace, and the challenges facing the Global South. Mexican researcher Ana Esther Ceceña emphasized the necessity of dismantling cultural dominance and fostering inclusive dialogues that engage diverse global voices. She provided a historical analysis of the rise and subsequent structural crisis of U.S. and Western power post-World War II. Randy Alonso, Director General of IDEAS Multimedios in Cuba, echoed these sentiments, advocating for a world rooted in peace and dialogue, while opposing fascism and xenophobia. Alonso highlighted the forum’s role in promoting inclusion and countering the media warfare led by the United States. Tica Moreno, representing the National Coordinating Body of the World March of Women, underscored the importance of shared perspectives on historical and contemporary issues, including the technological rivalry between China and the U.S. in artificial intelligence (AI) regulation. Venezuelan professor Carlos Ron condemned U.S. military actions in the Caribbean, warning of the escalating threat of war in the region. The forum, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory against global fascism, also addressed the post-war international order and the pressing issues confronting the Global South.
分类： world
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Mexico Cracks Down on Casinos as Belize Reviews Its Own Gambling Laws
In a significant move to combat financial crimes, the Mexican government has closed 13 casinos following a joint investigation by the Ministry of Finance and the national security agency. The probe uncovered suspicious cash operations, international money transfers, and unregulated online gambling platforms suspected of facilitating money laundering. Authorities have frozen accounts, suspended operations, and filed formal complaints with the Attorney General’s Office. President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the need to modernize Mexico’s outdated casino and digital betting laws, highlighting the growing prevalence of online gambling and its potential misuse for illicit activities. Meanwhile, Belize is also revisiting its gambling regulations. The Senate debated the Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill 2025, aimed at modernizing and consolidating the country’s gambling laws. However, after a heated discussion, senators decided to delay the bill for further refinement. Senator Louis Wade urged caution, citing unresolved issues in the proposed legislation, including loopholes exposed by recent investigations into Caribi Bleu Casino and the ongoing Rima Ray case. Both nations are grappling with the challenges of regulating an evolving gambling industry while addressing concerns of financial misconduct.
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New US strike on alleged drug boat kills four in Caribbean—reports
In a significant escalation of its anti-narcotics operations, US forces have reportedly conducted another strike on an alleged drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean, bringing the total death toll in the contentious campaign to 80. According to US media reports on Thursday, the latest strike marks the 20th such operation in international waters since Washington initiated the campaign in early September. The exact timing of the strike remains unclear, with conflicting reports from CBS and the New York Times citing unnamed Pentagon officials. The Pentagon has yet to comment on the matter. The UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Turk, recently called for an investigation into the legality of these strikes, labeling them as potential ‘extrajudicial killings.’ However, the US Justice Department maintains that the operations comply with the law of armed conflict, signaling no intention to halt the campaign. Meanwhile, tensions in the region have intensified with the arrival of a US aircraft carrier off the coast of Latin America, prompting Venezuela to announce a ‘massive’ retaliatory deployment. On Thursday, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth unveiled ‘Operation Southern Spear,’ a new phase of the mission aimed at ‘removing narco-terrorists,’ though details of the operation remain undisclosed.
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China donates $85k for Hurricane Melissa relief
In a significant move to bolster disaster recovery efforts, China has pledged additional aid to The Bahamas following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The Chinese government has approved approximately $84,665 through the China-Caribbean Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Fund, underscoring its commitment to supporting the Caribbean nation in times of crisis. This latest contribution comes in response to a diplomatic note from the Bahamian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which detailed the extensive damage inflicted by the hurricane. Chinese Ambassador Yan Jiarong highlighted China’s ongoing support, recalling her visit to a restoration village in Grand Bahama last November, where she delivered aid following Hurricane Milton. She emphasized that the lingering effects of Hurricane Dorian, which struck five years ago, are still palpable. Over the past three years, China has donated $140,000 to The Bahamas through the same fund, along with emergency supplies and over $600,000 in cash and material aid post-Dorian. Beyond financial assistance, China has organized workshops and seminars for Bahamian professionals to enhance disaster response and climate adaptation capabilities. The Chinese government expressed its deep understanding of the unique vulnerabilities faced by small island states like The Bahamas in the era of climate change. Reiterating its commitment to global climate governance, China emphasized the importance of translating climate commitments into action and fostering international cooperation. The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of China’s unwavering support for The Bahamas, encapsulated in the proverb, ‘A friend in need is a friend indeed.’
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Asantehene concludes historic visit to Barbados; PM meeting among key engagements
His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene of the Ashanti Kingdom, concluded his groundbreaking visit to Barbados today after two days of significant engagements centered around the GUBA Investment Conference and Awards. This historic trip marked the first-ever visit by a reigning Asantehene to Barbados and the inaugural direct charter flight between Accra and Bridgetown. The Ghanaian delegation departed early Thursday morning, wrapping up a visit that underscored the deep cultural and historical connections between the Caribbean and West Africa. During his stay, the Asantehene participated in a series of high-profile events, including meetings with Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and President Dame Sandra Mason. Prime Minister Mottley hosted His Majesty at Ilaro Court, where they discussed the shared heritage and enduring ties between their nations. In a statement on her Instagram page, Mottley expressed her honor in welcoming the traditional leader and emphasized the cultural bonds that unite the regions. Wednesday’s agenda featured the GUBA Foundation Walk, a diplomatic golf invitational, and a keynote address by the Asantehene at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus, where he also unveiled the university’s new administration building. The visit culminated with the GUBA Awards ceremony at the Wyndham Grand in Bridgetown, marking the first time the prestigious event was held in the Caribbean. This visit not only celebrated cultural heritage but also paved the way for strengthened diplomatic and economic collaboration between Ghana and Barbados.
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V.C. Bird Airport to Resume Homeporting Operations This Saturday
V.C. Bird International Airport is set to recommence its homeporting operations for the cruise industry this Saturday, heralding the beginning of a bustling travel weekend for Antigua’s primary aviation hub. The revival of homeporting signifies a surge in coordination between air and sea arrivals, as passengers fly into Antigua to embark on cruise ships departing from St John’s Harbour. In anticipation of the increased activity, airport authorities are strongly advising travelers to utilize the ‘Arrive Antigua’ online portal to streamline check-in processes and mitigate potential delays. Additionally, passengers are encouraged to prepare for heightened traffic congestion around the terminal. The airport has emphasized its close collaboration with tourism and transportation partners to guarantee a seamless and stress-free experience for all visitors during this peak period.
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Smith Highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s Blue Economy Vision at Global Forum in India
MUMBAI, India — Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy for Antigua and Barbuda, has solidified the twin-island nation’s role as a Caribbean pioneer in sustainable ocean development. Representing his country at India Maritime Week 2025, Smith participated in the second edition of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue,’ a high-profile international forum bringing together ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance global ocean governance and the Blue Economy. As a featured panelist during ‘Plenary 8: Oceans of Opportunity – Re-imagining the Global Blue Economy,’ Smith shared critical insights on human-capital development for small island states, emphasizing its significance in driving sustainable ocean industries. He highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s strides in Blue Economy policies, including the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Ocean and Blue Economy (COBE), designed to train and empower future professionals in regional ocean sectors. Smith’s address resonated strongly with delegates, particularly young professionals and students, who praised his vision as inspiring and forward-thinking. During his visit, Smith engaged in discussions with environmental engineers and researchers from the Indian Institute of Engineering and the Indian Institute of Science, exploring potential collaborations in marine innovation, ocean technology, and sustainability research. Accompanied by Ms. Marver Woodley, Senior Operations and Policy Manager within the Department of the Blue Economy, Smith’s participation underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s growing reputation as a regional leader in ocean sustainability. At just 30 years old, Smith has emerged as one of the Caribbean’s youngest and most influential advocates for ocean policy. His message in Mumbai was unequivocal: small island states have the potential—and the responsibility—to shape the global Blue Economy. ‘Antigua and Barbuda is ready to lead,’ he declared.
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Dominica is country most affected by impact of extreme weather event in 30 year period, according to Climate Risk Index
Dominica has been identified as the nation most susceptible to extreme weather events over the past three decades, according to the ‘Climate Risk Index 2026’ released by Germanwatch, an independent organization focused on development, environmental, and human rights issues. The report, presented during the 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) of the UN climate change gathering in Brazil on November 12, underscores the escalating devastation caused by climate-induced disasters, particularly in poorer nations. Drawing data from the EM-DAT international disaster database, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank, the report highlights Dominica’s acute vulnerability to severe weather, exemplified by the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused damages exceeding three times the country’s GDP at the time. The Climate Risk Index, published since 2006, provides a comprehensive assessment of the human and economic toll of extreme weather events globally. It ranks countries based on fatalities and economic losses over the past year and a 30-year period. Between 1995 and 2024, Dominica, Myanmar, Honduras, Haiti, and Grenada emerged as the most affected nations. In 2024 alone, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada were the hardest hit. The report also cites a World Weather Attribution study linking the unprecedented intensity of recent disasters to human-induced climate change. Since 1995, 9,700 extreme weather events have been documented, with storms accounting for a third of fatalities and $2.64 trillion in global damages. The Caribbean region’s recent experience with Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, further underscores this trend. Despite Dominica’s efforts to rebuild and become the world’s first climate-resilient nation, Germanwatch warns that climate change is an immediate and defining reality. The organization advocates for urgent global action, including reducing emissions, accelerating adaptation efforts, implementing solutions for loss and damage, and ensuring adequate climate finance.
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Antigua and Barbuda represented at High-Level side event at COP30 in Brazil
At the COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil, Her Excellency Ruleta Camacho Thomas, Ambassador for Climate Change for Antigua and Barbuda, delivered a compelling address during a high-level side event titled ‘Building Climate Resilience through Debt Reform, Infrastructure Investment, and Private Sector Action.’ Representing the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, Ambassador Camacho Thomas emphasized the urgent need for systemic financial reforms to empower Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in achieving climate-resilient prosperity.
Ambassador Camacho Thomas underscored the existential threat posed by debt to SIDS, stating, ‘Debt is not a technical issue but an existential one for small island nations.’ Despite contributing less than one percent of global emissions, these nations are among the most vulnerable to climate impacts. ‘Every storm, hurricane, or drought forces us deeper into debt as we rebuild what climate disasters destroy,’ she explained. This cycle of debt and disaster has left over 40 percent of SIDS in or near debt distress, with many spending more on debt servicing than on essential sectors like health, education, or climate adaptation.
The Ambassador highlighted the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), a 10-year development strategy adopted by SIDS, which outlines a comprehensive framework to align debt reform, resilience, and sustainable growth. A cornerstone of ABAS is the Debt Sustainability Support Service (DSSS), a pillar of the Centre of Excellence for SIDS. The DSSS integrates debt reform, climate resilience, and access to finance, offering tools such as debt swaps, restructuring, and climate-contingent clauses to create fiscal space during disasters. It also promotes risk-layered protection systems through insurance and reserves, while channeling savings from debt relief into resilient infrastructure and climate-aligned growth.
Ambassador Camacho Thomas clarified that the DSSS is not a fund but a coordination mechanism connecting existing tools, institutions, and financial flows. ‘It transforms how the financial system treats vulnerable economies, ensuring financial flows align with climate-resilient development,’ she said. She stressed that debt sustainability and climate resilience are inseparable, and reforms like the DSSS are vital for SIDS to achieve resilient prosperity.
Antigua and Barbuda is collaborating with SIDS, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and fragile states to operationalize the DSSS, providing technical expertise, supporting fairer negotiations, and ensuring debt relief translates into tangible resilience investments. Ambassador Camacho Thomas called on development banks, donors, rating agencies, and private investors to prioritize climate finance for debt and resilience reform. ‘Resilience begins with fiscal and financial stability,’ she concluded. ‘The DSSS aligns debt reform with the fight for climate justice. For small islands, this is about survival, dignity, and the right to a sustainable future—achieved through fairness and reform, not charity.’
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COP30: Inheemsen protesteren..’Ons land is niet te koop’
Indigenous demonstrators clashed with security forces outside the venue of the COP30 United Nations climate conference in Belem, Brazil, demanding urgent climate action and forest protection. The protesters attempted to breach the UN compound on Tuesday, where thousands of international delegates had gathered for the climate talks. Many carried flags advocating for land rights and signs with messages such as ‘Our land is not for sale.’
Nato, a leader from the Tupinamba Indigenous community, emphasized the protesters’ demands, stating, ‘Money is not edible. We want our land free from agriculture, oil exploration, illegal mining, and logging.’ Security personnel pushed back the demonstrators, barricading the entrance with tables. Witnesses reported that a guard in a wheelchair was evacuated while clutching his stomach, and another guard sustained a cut above his eye after being struck by a heavy drumstick thrown from the crowd. Security confiscated several heavy sticks from the protesters.
Maria Clara, a demonstrator from the Rede Sustentabilidade Bahia association, highlighted the plight of Indigenous peoples, saying, ‘These voices are being ignored.’ The confrontation ended as the protesters, part of a larger march of hundreds, dispersed. Security later allowed delegates to leave after initially instructing them to remain indoors until the area was secured.
A spokesperson issued a statement confirming the incident: ‘Earlier this evening, a group of protesters breached security barriers at the main entrance of COP, resulting in minor injuries to two guards and slight damage to the venue. Brazilian and UN security personnel implemented protective measures in accordance with established protocols. Authorities are investigating the incident, and the venue is fully secured. COP negotiations continue.’
João Santiago, a professor at the Federal University of Para, noted that the Indigenous movement sought to voice its demands within the ‘blue zone’ but was denied access. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has emphasized the importance of Indigenous communities in this year’s COP30 negotiations. Earlier this week, dozens of Indigenous leaders arrived by boat to participate in the talks and advocate for greater involvement in forest management.
In an interview with Reuters, respected Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire, also known as Chief Raoni, expressed frustration over ongoing industrial and development projects in the Amazon. He called on Brazil to support Indigenous efforts to preserve the rainforest.