As Saint Lucia approaches its upcoming general election, allegations of voter list manipulation have reignited concerns over the island’s electoral integrity. The controversy emerged after United Workers Party candidate Elisha Norbert claimed that names of living party supporters were erroneously listed among the deceased. The Electoral Department, led by Chief Elections Officer Herman St Helen, has refuted these allegations, emphasizing their verification process involving funeral homes and obituaries. However, the dispute has intensified scrutiny on the nation’s voter verification system. House Speaker Claudius Francis has called for stricter checks, sharing his personal experience of mistaken identity due to shared names and lifestyle details. Francis, a former Electoral Commissioner, acknowledged the complexity of implementing a foolproof verification system and highlighted the need for election observers, a concern he raised as early as 2001. Saint Lucia’s legislation clearly defines election procedures and criminalizes voter fraud, including bribery, treating, undue influence, and personation. Penalties for such offenses include losing voting rights for seven years, disqualification from parliamentary candidacy, and fines up to $1,000 or a year in prison for ballot tampering. Despite these measures, recent anonymous blog accusations of voter payments and unanswered interview requests to St Helen have fueled public skepticism. With the next general election imminent, the debate over electoral transparency and accountability continues to dominate the political landscape.
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Immigration overhaul to end automatic deportation for minor offences
The Mia Mottley administration in Barbados is spearheading a significant shift in immigration policy, moving away from the automatic deportation of individuals for minor infractions such as overstaying their visit. Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams announced on Friday that the government is implementing sweeping reforms to modernize the country’s migration framework and rectify past injustices.
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UWI Scientists Co-Author Study That Finds Climate Change Enhanced Hurricane Melissa’s Intensity
A groundbreaking study led by scientists from The University of the West Indies (The UWI) has confirmed that human-induced climate change significantly intensified Hurricane Melissa, making it one of the most destructive storms to hit the Caribbean in recent history. The research, conducted in collaboration with the World Weather Attribution (WWA), analyzed data from Jamaica and eastern Cuba, revealing that climate change made the atmospheric and oceanic conditions behind the storm six times more likely. Hurricane Melissa, which struck the region in late October 2025, rapidly intensified from 68 to 140 miles per hour within a single day, leaving at least 75 people dead, displacing thousands, and causing billions of dollars in economic losses. The study, involving 20 researchers from institutions across Jamaica, Cuba, Ireland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Austria, utilized advanced modeling techniques to assess the storm’s rainfall, wind speeds, and environmental conditions. Findings indicate that climate change increased Melissa’s maximum wind speeds by 7% and extreme rainfall by 16%. Historical data also shows that maximum rainfall over five days in Jamaica and eastern Cuba is now 20-50% higher than in pre-industrial times. Dr. Jayaka Campbell of The UWI Mona Campus emphasized the urgency of the findings, calling for Melissa to serve as a turning point in climate action. Co-author Friederike Otto of Imperial College warned that without significant reductions in fossil fuel use, such storms will push vulnerable communities beyond adaptation limits. The UWI scientists are now working to ensure their findings inform regional negotiators ahead of COP meetings, advocating for resilient infrastructure and adaptation strategies to mitigate future disasters.
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Policymakers and Academics call for Strategic Unity on Free Movement and Regional Integration at UWI Vice-Chancellor’s Forum
At the recent Vice-Chancellor’s Forum hosted by The University of the West Indies (UWI), regional policymakers and academics convened to discuss critical issues surrounding Free Movement, the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), and the Caribbean Regionalisation Project. Held on October 21, the forum highlighted the urgent need for strategic unity among CARICOM member states to address shared demographic and economic challenges.
Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, a UWI alumnus, emphasized the importance of fully implementing freedom of movement across the Caribbean. He warned that hesitations or delays by member states could jeopardize long-term regional development. Dr. Gonsalves outlined several pressing challenges, including declining fertility rates, ageing populations, trade impediments due to currency exchange issues, and disparities in energy costs. He also stressed the need for increased funding for the CARICOM Development Fund, improved airspace management, and a more unified approach to foreign policy coordination.
UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles framed the push for deeper integration as both a moral and historical imperative, rooted in the shared destiny of Caribbean people. He acknowledged progress but highlighted persistent internal and external forces that hinder unity. Professor Canute Thompson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Undergraduate Studies, chaired the forum and questioned whether the promises of the 50-year-old integration treaty had been fulfilled.
Other notable speakers included Dr. Justice Anthony Gafoor, Dr. Indira Rampersad, Ambassador Anthony Hylton, and Dr. Delroy Beckford, who provided insights on legal frameworks, data-driven mobility analysis, and the need for aligning domestic laws with treaty obligations. Dr. Rampersad revealed gaps in regional data collection, while Ambassador Hylton urged greater use of the Caribbean Court of Justice to enforce CSME provisions.
The forum underscored the Caribbean’s ongoing struggle for deeper integration and the critical role of UWI in fostering regional development. With its rich history and global recognition, UWI continues to be a cornerstone of Caribbean progress, addressing both regional and global challenges.
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Fledgling NNP backs Citizenship Bill’s intent, warns against ministerial overreach
Kemar Stuart, leader of the New National Party, expressed significant reservations about the proposed Barbados Citizenship Bill during a Joint Select Committee hearing on Friday. While acknowledging the necessity of the legislation, Stuart highlighted critical flaws that could lead to potential misuse of power. He emphasized that the bill grants excessive discretionary authority to a single minister, particularly concerning the revocation of citizenship, without adequate checks and balances. Stuart argued that such provisions could open the door to arbitrary or politically motivated actions, drawing parallels to international examples where citizenship revocation has been used discriminatorily. He specifically criticized Clause 9(1)(c), which allows the minister to revoke citizenship based on vague criteria such as “speech or acts” deemed disloyal to Barbados. Stuart called for more precise language and stronger judicial oversight to prevent abuse. In response, committee chair Marsha Caddle clarified that the clause would not apply to citizens by birth, but Stuart insisted that clearer safeguards are needed for all individuals. Additionally, he cautioned against lowering citizenship standards in pursuit of population growth, stressing the importance of protecting the global prestige of Barbados’ passport.
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New Accident and Emergency Operating Theatre opens at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital
The Dominica-China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) marked a significant milestone in healthcare advancement with the inauguration of a fully equipped Accident and Emergency (A&E) Operating Theatre on November 6, 2025. Valued at EC$1.17 million, this cutting-edge facility was made possible through the generous support of The Maria Holder Memorial Trust, reinforcing the government’s commitment to modernizing Dominica’s healthcare infrastructure. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, addressing the audience at the opening ceremony, hailed the initiative as a testament to the government’s dedication to quality healthcare. He lauded the Trust for its unwavering partnership since 2015, which has previously aided national recovery efforts post-Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria. The new theatre, equipped with advanced anesthesia systems, orthopedic extensions, portable imaging devices, and rapid diagnostic tools, is poised to revolutionize emergency care by enabling urgent surgeries directly within the A&E Department, thereby eliminating the need for patient transfers. This development is expected to enhance response times, improve patient outcomes, and increase survival rates. Prime Minister Skerrit also commended the Dominica Hospitals Authority and Health Minister Cassanni Laville for their leadership and technical expertise. The government’s broader vision includes the construction of the Marigot Hospital, upgrades to 13 health centers, and ongoing enhancements at DCFH, all aimed at ensuring accessible, affordable, and dependable healthcare for all Dominicans. Minister Laville emphasized that the new facility will streamline surgical operations, reducing delays and cancellations of elective procedures by localizing emergency interventions within the A&E.
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Simons: Bossen moeten eerlijk worden beloond voor hun bijdrage aan het klimaat
Suriname has pledged its support for the establishment of the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF), a groundbreaking global fund designed to systematically reward nations with extensive forest cover for their contributions to climate preservation. The initiative was unveiled during the Belém Climate Summit, attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and numerous heads of state and government leaders from forest-rich countries. President Jennifer Simons hailed the TFFF as a long-awaited and essential tool for equitable climate financing. ‘As the country with the highest forest coverage globally, Suriname is delighted to endorse this initiative. The TFFF acknowledges the true value of standing forests and ensures that nations and communities preserving their forests are no longer overlooked,’ she stated. The facility introduces a permanent, predictable, and performance-based mechanism, linking financial support to measurable outcomes in forest conservation. Simons emphasized that the lack of accessible funding for forest protection can no longer persist. ‘The world must finally recognize the invaluable services our forests provide to the global climate.’ The TFFF’s objectives align closely with Suriname’s policies on forest management and sustainable development, which include maintaining at least 90% forest coverage, safeguarding land rights and livelihoods of indigenous and local communities, and promoting a green economy focused on ecotourism, natural cosmetics, and traditional medicine. ‘Fair climate financing enables our nations to improve the lives of our people—not through deforestation, but through sustainable management and conservation of our forests,’ President Simons remarked before her return home.
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Prime Minister Meets with Antigua and Barbuda Delegation at COP30 in Belém, Brazil
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda convened with the nation’s delegation at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, to strategize on critical climate priorities. The meeting, held during a pivotal phase of the conference focused on implementation and accountability, underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to advancing the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on the global stage. Key areas of discussion included ocean and forest conservation, climate finance, and the imperative to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C. The delegation, led by Ambassador Ruleta Camacho-Thomas and Ambassador Diann Black-Layne, outlined a comprehensive approach to advocacy and technical negotiations across thematic sessions. Prime Minister Browne lauded the team’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of amplifying the voices of vulnerable nations in the global climate dialogue. COP30, branded as an “Implementation COP,” highlights the urgency of actionable progress under the Paris Agreement, particularly in forest protection and sustainable management—a lifeline for SIDS facing existential threats from climate change. The delegation’s symbolic photo with Brazil’s native anteater served as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all species and nations in the fight to preserve our shared climate balance.
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ABWU to Host Men’s Conference Focused on Health and Well-Being
The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is set to commemorate International Men’s Day 2025 with an impactful one-day conference themed “Healthy Men, Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Society.” Scheduled for Wednesday, 19 November 2025, the event will convene men from diverse professional backgrounds across the island to address critical aspects of mental, physical, and personal well-being. This initiative underscores the ABWU’s dedication to fostering holistic development and promoting health and balance among working men. The conference will feature a distinguished panel of experts, including Clinical Psychologist Feona Charles-Richards, Medical Practitioner Dr. Dwayne Thwaites, and Personal Care Professional Octavia Nicholas. Through interactive sessions, participants will delve into topics such as emotional resilience, preventive healthcare, self-care, and personal grooming, all designed to empower men to lead healthier and more confident lives. ABWU General Secretary, Sen. David Massiah, emphasized the event’s dual purpose: celebrating men’s contributions while fostering candid discussions about health, identity, and balance. “Taking care of oneself, both physically and mentally, is an act of strength that benefits individuals, their families, workplaces, and communities,” he stated. The ABWU sees the conference as a pivotal platform to honor men’s roles in the workforce and encourage open dialogue on issues impacting their well-being. By promoting awareness and empowerment, the Union aims to cultivate a culture of balance, respect, and care within workplaces and the broader community.
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Prime Minister Gaston Browne Urges Stronger Global Action to Uphold 1.5°C Goal at COP30 in Brazil
At the ongoing COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil, the Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has emerged as a vocal advocate for the priorities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). In interviews with Sky TV and HiHouse (UK), Prime Minister Browne emphasized the critical importance of adhering to the 1.5°C climate target, cautioning that surpassing this limit would unleash devastating consequences for vulnerable nations. He stressed the indispensable role of oceans and forests as natural carbon sinks and defenses against escalating climate impacts. Prime Minister Browne underscored that small island states are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis and urged the international community to bolster commitments, enhance climate financing, and take decisive action to curb emissions. Through his global engagements, Prime Minister Browne continues to amplify the voices of SIDS, emphasizing that safeguarding nature and limiting global warming to 1.5°C are not merely environmental objectives but existential imperatives.