The ongoing U.S. federal government shutdown, now in its fifth week, has led to widespread flight cancellations and delays, raising concerns for Belize’s tourism industry. Over 2,000 flights were disrupted today, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announcing traffic reductions at 40 major airports. The FAA predicts up to 4,000 daily flights could be affected by next week as operations are scaled back to alleviate pressure on unpaid air traffic controllers. Belizeans with travel plans to the U.S. are receiving alerts about potential disruptions. American Airlines has issued a temporary waiver for change fees, allowing passengers booked between November 7–14 to rebook without penalty, provided the origin and destination remain unchanged. Evan Tillett, Director of the Belize Tourism Board, stated that the situation is being closely monitored, with United Airlines confirming that international flights will remain unaffected. The shutdown, which began on October 1, has already impacted food aid programs and left hundreds of federal workers unpaid. Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, warned that the situation is deteriorating and urged Congress to reopen the government.
博客
-
Will the ICJ Confirm Belize’s Sovereignty Over the Sapodilla Cayes?
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is set to conduct public hearings from November 24 to 26, 2025, in The Hague, Netherlands, to address Guatemala’s request to intervene in Belize’s sovereignty claim over the Sapodilla Cayes. Belize initially filed the case against Honduras three years ago, seeking the ICJ’s declaration of its sovereignty over the islands, which are located at the southern end of the Belize Barrier Reef in the Gulf of Honduras.
Guatemala, which submitted its application last year, argues that the case intersects with its own territorial claim over Belize, also pending before the ICJ. Guatemala asserts a ‘clear legal interest’ in the matter, citing its longstanding sovereignty claim over the Sapodilla Cayes, and warns that the ICJ’s decision could impact its case.
The hearings will include three rounds of oral arguments, with Guatemala presenting its case on Monday and Wednesday, and Belize and Honduras responding on Tuesday and Wednesday.
-
CIIE 2025: Handel als brug naar een gedeelde, welvarende toekomst
The China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025, held in Shanghai, has once again proven to be a cornerstone of global trade and economic collaboration. With its largest exhibition space to date and a record number of exhibitors, the event attracted 4,108 foreign participants from 155 countries and regions, showcasing over 430,000 square meters of innovation and opportunity. The expo, themed ‘New Era, Shared Future,’ featured 461 new products, technologies, and services, highlighting advancements in new materials, energy, and environmental protection technologies. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, during the opening ceremony, emphasized the importance of maintaining equality and mutual benefit in international trade. He called for fairness and justice in global economic governance and reaffirmed China’s commitment to high-quality development and openness. Li also highlighted China’s role in promoting the Global Governance Initiative and improving the WTO-based multilateral trading system. The event coincided with the release of the World Openness Report 2025 and the World Openness Index at the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, further solidifying Shanghai’s position as a hub for international economic dialogue. The CIIE not only celebrates the ancient tradition of trade but also paves the way for a future of shared prosperity and innovation.
-
Dr. Kenneth Darroux is now interim CEO of Dominica Hospital Authority
Dr. Kenneth Darroux, former Health Minister of Dominica, has been appointed as the interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dominica Hospital Authority. He succeeds Nancy Francis, a St. Lucian national, who served in the role for two years. Dr. Darroux expressed gratitude for Francis’s foundational work, which set the authority on a path toward prosperity. He acknowledged the challenges of stepping out of semi-retirement to take on this critical role but emphasized his readiness to address the complexities of managing a national hospital. Dr. Darroux, who has served as a patient, medical doctor, intern, Health Minister, and deputy director of the hospital board, brings a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system to his new position. Since assuming the role, he has been actively engaging with staff across all levels to identify issues and gather insights. He plans to present a detailed report to the Minister of Health outlining necessary steps to steer the hospital in the right direction. A key focus for Dr. Darroux is restoring public trust in the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH), which has faced criticism despite significant investments in modern facilities and advanced medical equipment. He highlighted the importance of motivated and satisfied staff in delivering quality healthcare and revealed plans to hire a PR consultant to improve the hospital’s public image. Dr. Darroux’s extensive career in healthcare and politics, including his current role as Minister of Foreign Affairs, underscores his commitment to strengthening Dominica’s health systems and disaster resilience.
-
LETTER: How Do Men Feel Walking Hand in Hand With Half-Naked Women?
In a thought-provoking letter to the editor, Cheryl Baptiste raises pressing questions about the decline of modesty in contemporary society. She reflects on the increasing trend of women wearing revealing clothing in public spaces, accompanied by men who seem indifferent to the attention it garners. Baptiste contrasts this with the dignified manner in which previous generations carried themselves, emphasizing pride and class in their attire. She challenges both men and women to reconsider their choices: men, to reflect on the kind of attention they desire when their partners are the center of stares, and women, to question whether self-worth truly depends on the amount of skin shown. Baptiste calls for a revival of self-respect and pride in public presentation, arguing that streets, malls, and airports are not runways or beaches. Her message is a plea for a return to modesty and dignity in how we present ourselves in shared spaces.
-
Jamaican artiste Skeng to headline Yamaha Sunfest
The stunning Pigeon Point beachfront in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, is set to host the second edition of Yamaha Sunfest, a vibrant celebration blending water sports, music, and cultural exchange. Following the success of its inaugural event last year, which attracted thousands of French visitors and locals, organizers are gearing up for another unforgettable experience. This year’s festival promises to unite the cultures of Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Saint Lucia through a diverse mix of musical genres, culinary treats, and beachside entertainment. The festivities kick off on November 7 with a lively street party in Gros Islet, featuring local and French DJs at the ‘On the Rocks’ welcome event. The main event, Yamaha Sunfest, takes place on November 8 at Pigeon Point Beach, running from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. This year’s celebration pays tribute to Guy Thelamon and boasts an impressive lineup of artists, including Jamaican dancehall sensation Skeng as the headliner. Other performers include Armani, Danthology, N’ken, Cecilene, Subance, Mighty, and DJs Ti Maestro, Mano, and Shakazulu. The festival concludes on November 9 with a chill-out session featuring DJs, a relaxation zone, massages, and body painting, offering a perfect end to this cultural extravaganza.
-
Fathers’ absence, custody disputes fuelling youth crime – study
A groundbreaking study has highlighted the alarming connection between the surge in violent behavior among young men and the absence of fathers, coupled with the weaponization of child visitation disputes. The research underscores how fractured family structures and the lack of positive male guidance are leaving boys susceptible to negative street influences. Conducted by the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit, the study analyzed the social histories of 47 individuals under 25 who are currently on remand in prison. Senior research analyst Kirt Goodridge revealed that 66% of these young men were raised in female-headed households, with 57% reporting family incarceration, often for serious crimes. The majority of these households were located in St Michael (51%) and Christ Church (26%). While 44% of respondents described their communities as peaceful, a staggering 63% had witnessed violent incidents, including shootings, fights, and murders. Goodridge emphasized the pivotal role of fathers in shaping young men’s development, noting that the absence of male role models often leads boys to seek guidance from peers who glorify violence and machismo. He called for family-strengthening programs, judicial reforms to prevent the weaponization of child visitation, and educational reforms to ensure young men remain in school until the age of 18. Research officer Melanie Banfield echoed the need for family-based interventions, advocating for mentorship programs and sustained engagement to curb youth offending.
-
Guyana elected to UNESCO Executive Board for first time in five decades
In a landmark achievement, Guyana has been elected to the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for the first time in five decades. This significant milestone underscores the nation’s growing influence in global education, science, culture, and communication. The election, held on October 31 during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, positions Guyana to play a pivotal role in shaping international standards and fostering collaboration among UNESCO’s 194 member states. On November 7, Guyana’s Ministry of Education hailed the achievement as a proud moment, emphasizing the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to UNESCO’s mission of promoting peace and sustainable development. Education Minister Sonia Parag, addressing the General Conference, reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to educational equality and inclusion, highlighting efforts to preserve cultural heritage and boost cultural industries as drivers of economic growth. President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali also reiterated Guyana’s dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 4, focusing on inclusive, quality education through initiatives like curriculum reform, ICT integration, and expanded access to learning resources. Guyana’s election strengthens its voice in global policy-making, advancing inclusive, knowledge-based societies worldwide.
-
Man Ambushed and Shot at in Unitedville
A violent ambush in Unitedville, Cayo, left a 38-year-old construction worker critically injured on Thursday night. Kevin Trapp, the victim, was returning home around 8:40 p.m. when two unidentified assailants approached his vehicle. One of the attackers fired multiple shots, striking Trapp several times. A family member rushed him to San Ignacio Community Hospital, where he is currently in stable condition. Trapp has a history with law enforcement; in 2021, he was charged with possession of cannabis with intent to supply after police discovered 70 packets of cannabis, a digital scale, and $288.50 BZD during a home search. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack, which has raised concerns about safety in the area.
-
Call for facilitators: HOPE Substance Use Disorder group treatment programme
The Legal Aid and Counselling Clinic (LACC) has announced an open call for professionals to join a transformative initiative aimed at combating substance use disorder (SUD). The organisation is seeking qualified individuals to undergo training as facilitators for the HOPE Programme, a pioneering psycho-educational intervention designed to support recovery and behavioural change. The three-day training session, set to take place from 19 to 21 November 2025, marks the first phase in building a national network of certified facilitators who will spearhead the programme’s implementation. The HOPE Programme integrates evidence-based methodologies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed practices. These approaches collectively emphasise healing, personal accountability, and values-driven transformation. Ideal candidates include counsellors, social workers, psychologists, and other allied professionals with experience in mental health, group facilitation, or substance use recovery. Applicants should demonstrate empathy, structured thinking, and a commitment to evidence-based practices. By becoming a HOPE facilitator, professionals will play a pivotal role in empowering individuals to rebuild their lives. Interested candidates are invited to submit their résumés to [email protected], addressed to Tyrone Buckmire, Director of LACC, by the close of business on 14 November 2025. This initiative underscores LACC’s dedication to fostering hope and resilience in communities affected by substance use disorders.