Carib Scope

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  • News : Zapping…

    News : Zapping…

    In a significant development for Haiti’s political scene, Minister of Justice and Public Security Patrick Pélissier announced that over 220 political parties have successfully regularized their documentation with the Ministry. The list of compliant parties is set to be published soon, with the government allocating $3 billion in its budget to support these entities. Pélissier extended his congratulations and wished them success in the forthcoming elections.

    Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti has categorically denied rumors suggesting that a U.S. government shutdown would facilitate illegal immigration into the United States. The Embassy labeled such claims as entirely false, aiming to quell misinformation.

    In a separate legal matter, former senators Youri Latortue and Joseph Lambert appeared before the Port-au-Prince Court of Appeals on October 22, 2025, as part of an ongoing corruption investigation. Latortue faces charges for issuing checks totaling nearly 3 million gourdes to his mother during his tenure as Senate President, while Lambert is accused of obstructing justice. The hearing has been adjourned for a week.

    On the humanitarian front, Leslie Voltaire, Presidential Transition Advisor, convened a hybrid meeting on October 22, 2025, to advance the Les Cayes Rehabilitation Center project. The initiative aims to support children and adolescents in vulnerable situations or in conflict with the law. Key participants included representatives from national institutions and international organizations such as UNICEF, Viva Rio, and the Inter-American Development Bank.

    In sports, the 2025 Inter-University Football Tournament in the South and West regions has scheduled matches from October 23 to 26, featuring teams like UNDH, UNASMOH, and UEH.

    However, amidst these developments, Bertide Horace, Spokesperson for the Dialogue and Awareness Commission, has raised alarms over the escalating gang violence in the Lower Artibonite region, where criminal groups now control 90% of the area. The Commission has criticized the authorities for their perceived inaction in addressing this crisis.

  • Post-BERT, CTUSAB urges fairer share of growth for workers

    Post-BERT, CTUSAB urges fairer share of growth for workers

    The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has issued a stark warning that the nation’s economic recovery will remain incomplete unless workers see tangible benefits from growth. CTUSAB President Ryan Phillips emphasized this during a press conference on Wednesday, as the organization assessed progress under the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) programme, backed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). While acknowledging BERT’s successes in areas like employment recovery, macroeconomic stability, and climate resilience, Phillips stressed that economic growth alone is insufficient if workers do not share in its rewards. He highlighted ongoing challenges such as stagnant wages, high living costs, and financial strains on state-owned enterprises. Phillips argued for wage increases tied to productivity, stronger social protection systems, and greater worker involvement in policy-making. He also raised concerns about the exodus of skilled Barbadians seeking opportunities abroad, warning that this talent drain threatens job security and national competitiveness. Prime Minister Mia Mottley recently noted that while the formal IMF arrangement under BERT is ending, the government will continue structural reforms, keeping the IMF engaged for future collaboration. Phillips outlined six priorities for the next phase of recovery: sustainable job creation, enhanced social protection, worker participation in policy implementation, equitable economic gains, skills development, and addressing the high cost of living. He urged policymakers to prioritize people in the nation’s economic strategy, declaring, ‘Economic recovery without social justice is incomplete.’ The BERT programme, launched in 2018 to address a severe debt crisis, has evolved through phases focusing on fiscal consolidation, green transformation, and now ‘shock-proofing’ Barbados against climate volatility and supply chain instability.

  • Staatsolie valt onder nieuw ministerie van Olie, Gas en Milieu

    Staatsolie valt onder nieuw ministerie van Olie, Gas en Milieu

    The government has officially enacted a sweeping reorganization of its ministerial structure through a State Decree, marking a significant shift in administrative priorities. Central to this overhaul is the establishment of the Ministry of Oil, Gas, and Environment, which consolidates policy, oversight, and regulation of the burgeoning oil sector. Notably, Staatsolie, the state-owned oil company, will now report directly to this new ministry instead of the Ministry of Natural Resources (NH).

    The Ministry of Natural Resources will refocus its mandate on water management, energy supply, and natural resources, excluding oil and gas. Entities such as NV Energiebedrijven Suriname (EBS) and the Surinaamsche Waterleiding Maatschappij remain under NH, with David Abiamofo overseeing the latter.

    This restructuring is part of a broader administrative reform aimed at streamlining governance and eliminating overlapping responsibilities. Several departments have been renamed, merged, or reorganized to align policies more effectively with strategic pillars such as energy, economy, digital transformation, and social inclusion.

    The newly formed Ministry of Oil, Gas, and Environment, led by Patrick Brunings, will also oversee the National Oil Spill Response Plan, local content regulations, and policies addressing environmental and climate obligations. This dual focus aims to balance economic growth with ecological sustainability.

    The changes are retroactively effective from July 16, 2025, as per State Decree S.B. 2025 no. 124.

  • Politic : Intervention of the new Head of BINUH at the UN Security Council

    Politic : Intervention of the new Head of BINUH at the UN Security Council

    Carlos Ruiz Massieu, the newly appointed Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), delivered his inaugural address to the UN Security Council on October 22, 2025. In his comprehensive statement, Massieu painted a stark picture of Haiti’s current realities, emphasizing the country’s escalating security crisis, political instability, and humanitarian challenges.

  • Uber rolls in, pledging safety, opportunity – for taxis only

    Uber rolls in, pledging safety, opportunity – for taxis only

    Uber, the global ride-hailing giant, has officially introduced its services in Barbados, marking a significant milestone in the Caribbean region. The launch event, held at the Hilton Barbados Resort, highlighted Uber’s commitment to modernizing transportation while positioning itself as a collaborator rather than a competitor to the local taxi industry. Over 400 licensed taxi operators have already joined the Uber Taxi platform, which is exclusively designed for registered taxi drivers. Belén Romero, Uber’s Regional General Manager for the Andean, Central America, and Caribbean region, emphasized the company’s goal to address a critical gap in Barbados’ transport market. Romero expressed enthusiasm about supporting tourism and providing a seamless experience for Uber’s 1.9 million global users, many of whom travel internationally. She also underscored the benefits for local drivers, including enhanced earning opportunities, access to innovative technology, and improved safety features. Romero welcomed competition from local taxi associations planning to develop their own ride-hailing apps, stating that it fosters innovation and improves user experiences. Additionally, Uber is collaborating with the Barbados Police Service to strengthen safety protocols, leveraging its global team of experts and over 30 safety features to ensure passenger and driver security. The Uber Taxi product in Barbados offers drivers flexibility, access to a global user base of 149 million, and advanced safety tools. Alongside its core ride-hailing service, Uber has introduced Uber Hourly for time-based bookings, ideal for island tours, and Uber Reserve, allowing trips to be scheduled up to 90 days in advance. The launch has sparked discussions within the transport sector, with traditional taxi operators advocating for fair regulations and a level playing field.

  • Health : Inauguration of the AMHE-GRAHN-Monde Community Health Center in Milot

    Health : Inauguration of the AMHE-GRAHN-Monde Community Health Center in Milot

    A groundbreaking development in community healthcare has emerged in Haiti with the inauguration of the AMHE-GRAHN-Monde Community Health Center in Milot. Located in the northern commune of Génipailler, this state-of-the-art facility is the result of a collaborative effort led by the Reflection and Action Group for a New Haiti (GRAHN-Monde), with significant financial backing from the Haitian Medical Association Abroad (AMHE) USA-Canada, the Rally of Haitian Nurses and Auxiliary Nurses of Haitian Origin of Quebec (RIIAOHQ), and numerous international donors. Dr. Samuel Pierre, Co-founder and President of GRAHN-Monde, emphasized the center’s mission to deliver high-quality, accessible healthcare tailored to the needs of the local population. The facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary healthcare, mental health support, infectious disease screening and treatment, sickle cell disease care, eye care, cardiovascular disease management, and maternal and child health services. Beyond medical care, the center prioritizes health education, aiming to foster healthier lifestyles and regular access to healthcare. By providing essential services at an affordable cost, the AMHE-GRAHN Center addresses a critical gap in healthcare access, potentially reducing preventable mortality in the region. This initiative highlights the vital role of diaspora contributions, local organizations, and healthcare professionals in addressing Haiti’s ongoing multidimensional crisis and rebuilding its healthcare infrastructure.

  • Two youth anniversaries that represent the past, present, and continuity

    Two youth anniversaries that represent the past, present, and continuity

    In a historic gathering at the José Martí Memorial, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez joined veterans and young leaders to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Association of Young Rebels (AJR) and the 60th anniversary of the Juventud Rebelde newspaper. The event, attended by prominent figures such as Roberto Morales Ojeda, highlighted the enduring legacy of Cuba’s revolutionary youth movements and their media outlets.

    Díaz-Canel emphasized the importance of unity and continuity within the revolutionary forces, drawing parallels between the AJR’s founding in 1960 and the establishment of the Juventud Rebelde in 1965. He underscored the significance of these milestones in shaping Cuba’s revolutionary identity and media landscape.

    Founders of the AJR, including Amalia Catalá Álvarez and Luis Enrique Colomé Dagnesses, shared personal reflections on the challenges and triumphs of their generation. They praised the current youth for their resilience in the face of modern adversities, such as the sophisticated use of social media by ideological adversaries.

    Leaders from the Union of Young Communists (UJC), the Federation of University Students (FEU), and the Federation of High School Students (FEEM) also spoke, detailing their efforts to engage young people in discussions on critical issues like the U.S. blockade, drug prevention, and community service.

    Juana Carrasco Martín, a National Journalism Award winner, and Raciel Guanche Ledesma, a young reporter for Juventud Rebelde, discussed the evolving role of media in fostering critical thinking and community engagement. Yurisander Guevara, deputy director of Juventud Rebelde, highlighted the transformative impact of recent events on the UJC’s media strategy.

    Díaz-Canel concluded the meeting by reflecting on the UJC’s motto, ‘Study, Work, and Rifle,’ urging young Cubans to embrace their revolutionary heritage, contribute to the nation’s development, and defend their sovereignty. He reaffirmed the necessity of socialism as the path to Cuba’s independence and prosperity, calling for collective participation and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

  • Cuba and China for strengthening cooperation in the study of the history of their revolutions and communist parties

    Cuba and China for strengthening cooperation in the study of the history of their revolutions and communist parties

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the First Secretary of the Party’s Central Committee and President of Cuba, welcomed Li Zongyuan, Director General of the History Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC), at the Palace of the Revolution in Havana. The meeting underscored the deepening ties between the two nations, particularly in the realms of historical and political collaboration. Li Zongyuan emphasized that the primary goal of his visit was to enhance cooperation between Cuban and Chinese institutions in studying the revolutionary histories and the roles of their respective Communist Parties. This visit follows Díaz-Canel’s earlier tour of the CPC Museum in Beijing, where he gained insights into China’s reform process and the CPC’s leadership under President Xi Jinping. Díaz-Canel highlighted the importance of interparty relations as the foundation of Cuba-China ties, describing both nations as building a ‘community with a shared future.’ He also expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received during his visit to China last September, which coincided with the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Li Zongyuan noted that 2025 marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, a milestone celebrated through the exchange of congratulatory letters between Presidents Xi Jinping and Díaz-Canel. The CPC Museum, Li explained, plays a crucial role in preserving China’s revolutionary history and fostering bilateral relations. This visit marks the first international delegation of the CPC Museum, with Cuba chosen as the inaugural destination. The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials from both sides, including Hua Xin, China’s Ambassador to Cuba, and Emilio Lozada García, head of Cuba’s Department of International Relations.

  • Copyright Bill hailed as milestone for creative future

    Copyright Bill hailed as milestone for creative future

    In a landmark move, Barbados has introduced sweeping reforms to its copyright legislation, marking a significant step forward in protecting the rights of creators and intellectual property holders in the digital era. The updated law, which revises the outdated 1988 Copyright Act, addresses modern challenges such as digital content and streaming, strengthens penalties for infringement, and grants the Copyright Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (COSCAP) the authority to take direct legal action on behalf of its members.

  • Aftrek van voorbelasting: hoe zit het nu?

    Aftrek van voorbelasting: hoe zit het nu?

    The Value Added Tax (VAT) Law of 2022, which came into effect on January 1, 2023, has now become a familiar concept for entrepreneurs. However, as the Tax Administration begins its enforcement checks, it has become evident that certain aspects, particularly the deduction of input VAT, remain unclear. This article delves into the mechanics of input VAT deductions, exceptions, and why the 0% VAT rate, such as in supplies to contractors and subcontractors in the oil and gas sector, does not negate the right to deduct. Input VAT refers to the VAT paid by businesses on expenses like purchasing goods, hiring services, or office supplies. This VAT can be deducted from the tax on turnover, provided these expenses are used for taxable supplies. A fundamental principle of the VAT system is that the tax is ultimately borne by the end consumer, not the entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs act as intermediaries and can deduct the VAT paid on business expenses, provided there is a direct link to taxable supplies. Taxable supplies include goods or services subject to VAT rates like 10%, 5%, or 0%. Even supplies under the 0% rate are considered taxable, meaning input VAT on related costs remains deductible. For instance, supplies and services to contractors and subcontractors in the oil and gas sector, as per Annex 1 of the VAT Law, are subject to a 0% rate if they fall under the Petroleum Act 1990. This provision ensures that the right to deduct is preserved for suppliers or service providers. However, the 0% rate can lead to misunderstandings, with some assuming that no VAT charged means no right to deduct, which is incorrect. There are exceptions to input VAT deductions, such as expenses related to food, beverages, tobacco, gifts, staff benefits in kind, and personal cars (with some exceptions). These exclusions are legally mandated and apply to all VAT-registered businesses, including those subject to the 0% rate. In summary, input VAT is deductible if linked to taxable supplies, the 0% rate does not affect the right to deduct, and there are specific legal exceptions. Entrepreneurs must be prepared to substantiate how business expenses relate to taxable activities during Tax Administration checks.