Human Rights Watch has called for the United Nations Security Council to urgently authorize a comprehensive international peacekeeping mission in Haiti to address the escalating violence fueled by criminal factions. The organization stresses the critical need for adequate funding, personnel, and robust human rights protections to ensure the mission’s effectiveness. Criminal groups have expanded their control beyond Port-au-Prince, intensifying violence in previously safer regions and severely disrupting access to essential services and humanitarian aid. The UN has reported over 3,137 fatalities in the first half of 2025, with nearly 1.5 million people displaced and half the population facing severe food insecurity. Currently, the Security Council is considering transforming the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission into a more robust ‘Gang Suppression Force’ (GSF). The MSS, operational since June 2024, has been hindered by insufficient resources and personnel. Nathalye Cotrino, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the urgency, stating, ‘Time is running out to stop Haiti from falling entirely into the hands of abusive criminal groups.’ She urged the UN to ensure any new force is properly staffed, funded, and equipped with human rights safeguards. The proposed GSF would comprise up to 5,500 personnel, including police, military, and civilians, and operate independently or alongside the Haitian National Police. A new UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) would oversee the GSF, providing logistical and technical support. Human Rights Watch warned that without adequate resources and human rights protections, the GSF risks repeating the MSS’s shortcomings. The organization also called for strict vetting procedures, comprehensive human rights training, and an independent accountability mechanism involving Haitian civil society. Cotrino concluded, ‘It has been two years since Haitian authorities asked for international help, and so far, that help has fallen far short.’
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Latest Consumer Price Index Shows Lower Prices Overall, Meat and Seafood Show Small Rise
The Statistics Division, operating under the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance, has released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for May 2025, revealing a continued downward trend in inflation. Over the twelve months ending in May, the CPI declined by 0.6%, following a 1.2% drop in April. Similarly, the All Items Less Food and Energy index fell by 1.4% during the same period. These declines were primarily driven by reductions in housing, water, electricity, gas, transport, and household maintenance costs. Notably, the index for Furnishings, Household Equipment, and Routine Household Maintenance plummeted by 5.1%, while Transport Services saw a significant 13.0% decrease. Collectively, these categories account for 45.7% of the All Items Less Food and Energy index. On a monthly basis, the CPI decreased by 0.6%, with the Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Index dropping by 0.3%. The Food Index experienced a slight decline of 0.4%, with six out of nine major supermarket food groups recording decreases. Key contributors to this decline included Milk, Cheese and Eggs (-3.1%), Bread and Cereals (-2.5%), and Vegetables (-1.0%). However, Meat and Meat Products and Fish and Seafood saw increases of 3.4% and 1.1%, respectively. The Non-Alcoholic Beverage Index rose by 1.5%, driven by a 5.7% increase in Fruit and Vegetable Juices. The CPI, a key measure of inflation, tracks the average price changes of goods and services purchased by households. Prices are collected monthly and quarterly from supermarkets and other suppliers, with expenditure patterns derived from household budget surveys. For more detailed methodology and access to the full CPI report for May 2025, visit the Statistics Division’s official website at www.statistics.gov.ag.
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Belle Vue to honour Gregory Sinaise at Creole Heritage Launch
The Belle Vue Jounen Kwéyòl Committee has unveiled plans for a spectacular start to this year’s Creole Heritage Month celebrations, honoring one of Saint Lucia’s most cherished musical legends, Gregory Sinaise. The festivities will commence with a free, open-air tribute concert on September 28, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Belle Vue Combined School in Vieux Fort. The event promises to be a heartfelt celebration of Sinaise’s enduring legacy in Saint Lucian culture. Committee spokesperson Kendall Elva emphasized the significance of the tribute, stating, ‘The objective is to highlight and celebrate the rich and proud contribution that Gregory Sinaise has made to the cultural landscape of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia by extension.’ Sinaise, a 60-year-old Belle Vue native, is renowned for his electrifying stage performances and socially conscious lyrics. He has been the lead vocalist for several prominent musical groups, including David Roots, African Roots, Solutions, and Mistè Lokal. His music has become a staple at cultural events such as Jounen Kwéyòl, Jazz, and Oktoberfest en Kwéyòl. Sinaise’s most popular tracks, including ‘Lakouyonte,’ ‘Souko,’ and ‘Ti Kesyon,’ have cemented his status as a cultural icon. He is also a two-time winner of the National Creole Singing Competition in 2014 and 2015. Elva praised Sinaise not only for his musical talent but also for his unwavering commitment to the community. ‘Whenever you call on Gaggary to perform at a show in Belle Vue — even when there is no money, he is always willing to perform,’ Elva noted. ‘He gives off his talent for the betterment of the community of Belle Vue.’ The tribute concert will feature a stellar lineup of Saint Lucian performers, including Avot Sevis, Escape Band, Asiswatin, and Inventions Band. Traditional quadrille performances and folk dances by the Belle Talent Dancers, Vieux North La Rose Group, and Belle Vue Children’s Dance Group will also grace the event. The Belle Vue Jounen Kwéyòl Committee is renowned for honoring cultural icons during their lifetime, a tradition that reflects the community’s values. Elva expressed that the upcoming tribute is a chance to show Sinaise the depth of their appreciation. ‘We are known for not having a dead hero society. We are known for recognising and saying thank you to all of our cultural icons who have made a contribution,’ Elva said. ‘Gregory, we love you, and we appreciate all that you have done for us as the people of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia by extension.’
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NEW MUSIC: ‘Le i Bon’ Shelly x Kris
In a groundbreaking development, researchers have unveiled a new artificial intelligence (AI) system that is set to revolutionize digital communication. The innovative technology, which leverages advanced natural language processing (NLP) algorithms, promises to enhance the way people interact online by providing more intuitive and context-aware responses. The system, developed by a team of leading AI experts, has been designed to understand and generate human-like text with unprecedented accuracy. This breakthrough is expected to have far-reaching implications across various sectors, including customer service, education, and healthcare, where effective communication is paramount. The researchers behind the project have emphasized the ethical considerations of deploying such powerful AI tools, ensuring that safeguards are in place to prevent misuse. As the technology continues to evolve, it is anticipated that it will become an integral part of our daily digital interactions, making communication more seamless and efficient.
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Antiguan Miguel Southwell Takes Charge at Airport
The Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has announced the engagement of Brakkam Aviation Management, LLC (Brakkam) to provide interim executive leadership and strategic support during the transition period following the departure of its permanent Chief Executive Officer. This collaboration aims to ensure operational continuity and enhance the efficiency, safety, customer experience, financial sustainability, and environmental stewardship of the airports managed by ABAA. Brakkam will also assist in the recruitment of a new CEO and advise on improvements to meet international aviation standards. ABAA, established under the Airport Authority Act of 2006, oversees the V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua and the Barbuda International Airport in Barbuda. This partnership comes at a crucial juncture as ABAA prepares for the 2026 ICAO audit and certification of both airports. ABAA Chairman Rolston Potter emphasized the importance of this engagement, stating, ‘Brakkam’s proven expertise in global aviation management will position ABAA to exceed international standards and solidify its role as a key international hub.’ Brakkam, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, boasts a distinguished portfolio, having worked with major clients such as the World Bank Group, the Guangdong Airport Authority in China, and the Airports Authority of Jamaica. The firm has also provided consultancy services to the governments of St. Lucia and the British Virgin Islands. Miguel Southwell, founder and principal of Brakkam, has been appointed as the project leader and Interim CEO of ABAA, effective September 29, 2025. With over four decades of aviation experience, Southwell’s career highlights include leadership roles at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest passenger airport, and Miami International Airport. His extensive contributions to the aviation sector include advisory roles for CARICOM on regional air connectivity and leadership positions within the Airports Council International (ACI). Southwell’s appointment is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge and strategic vision to ABAA, ensuring its continued growth and success in the global aviation landscape.
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Caribbean initiates first shelter coordination team to enhance disaster readiness
As the Atlantic Hurricane Season enters its most critical phase, over 47 disaster management experts from the Caribbean and surrounding regions have united to form the Caribbean’s first Shelter Technical Working Group. Spearheaded by the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), this groundbreaking initiative seeks to improve emergency shelter operations, ensure equitable aid distribution, and promote safer, more inclusive disaster response strategies for affected communities. Tamara Lovell, a Community Resilience Specialist with CDEMA, highlighted the group’s mission, stating, ‘This marks the beginning of a shelter management community for the Caribbean, with the goal of advancing shelter management practices in the future.’ Since its establishment, weekly meetings have fostered a collaborative network ready to address urgent shelter needs. Both CDEMA and IOM have committed to involving local organizations and communities in all planning and response efforts, recognizing their crucial role in creating inclusive shelters for vulnerable populations. The initiative includes national disaster agencies, civil society groups, and non-governmental organizations from across the region. To enhance coordination, a WhatsApp platform for real-time updates and a dedicated website for resource sharing have been launched. Future sessions will focus on critical topics such as relief supply quality, gender-based violence prevention, cash assistance programs, and sustainable shelter solutions. The group will also provide technical aid, conduct training, and mobilize relief supplies for rapid deployment during disasters. Emergency supplies, including plastic sheeting, toolkits, solar lamps, tents, generators, and hygiene products, have already been stockpiled at CDEMA’s Logistics Hub in Barbados by organizations like IOM, ShelterBox, GSD, UNICEF, and the Red Cross. Jan-Willem Wegdam, IOM’s Emergency Coordinator for the Caribbean, urged participants to collaborate, stating, ‘Let’s shape this agenda together and create a welcoming community where our collective efforts drive impact.’ This initiative is part of the RESILIENT CARIBBEAN Project, funded by the European Union and launched virtually by IOM on September 16.
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CTUSAB joins call for action to address ongoing nurse violence
The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has issued a stern call for immediate and coordinated measures to combat the escalating violence against nurses and healthcare workers in the country. This appeal follows yet another reported assault at a public health facility, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change. In a strongly worded statement released on Friday, CTUSAB General Secretary Dennis De Peiza condemned the repeated attacks as “disgusting and intolerable,” urging the Ministry of Health and Wellness and public healthcare management to take decisive action. De Peiza emphasized that such violence demands a robust response from authorities to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals. CTUSAB has thrown its full support behind the Barbados Nurses Association (BNA), which has been advocating for comprehensive security enhancements across the healthcare system. These include improved security screening, the installation of surveillance cameras, and a reevaluation of the roles of Government Security Officers at polyclinics to ensure they protect employees as well as government property. Additionally, CTUSAB is pushing for the establishment of a standardized security policy applicable to all public healthcare institutions, complete with uniform protocols and systems. De Peiza also called for unity among nurses, urging them to rally behind the BNA’s campaign for stronger protections, regardless of their union affiliations. “We urge all nurses, irrespective of their individual trade union or staff association affiliation, to join the BNA in its fight to address these long-standing security shortcomings,” he stated. The union’s demands underscore the growing concern over the safety of healthcare workers and the need for immediate, systemic reforms to prevent further incidents of violence.
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Small islands seek big changes; AOSIS urges legal application of SIDS’ special circumstances
In a landmark move during the 2025 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), leaders of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) issued a historic declaration advocating for the recognition of the ‘Special Circumstances of Small Island Developing States (SIDS)’ as a principle of international law. Established in 1990, the 39-member alliance emphasized the urgent need for global acknowledgment of the unique challenges faced by small island nations, spanning the Caribbean, Pacific, African, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea regions. The declaration builds on long-standing efforts to address issues such as climate change, economic vulnerability, and environmental risks through international policies and frameworks. Dominica’s President, H.E. Sylvanie Burton, echoed these sentiments in her UNGA speech, calling for greater autonomy and support for small island territories. The declaration calls for concrete legal, financial, and institutional actions, including easier access to non-debt-creating financial aid, meaningful participation in global decision-making, and protection from disproportionate environmental and economic risks. Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. highlighted the importance of recognizing these vulnerabilities, stating that treating small islands like larger nations undermines their ability to thrive and contradicts the international community’s pledge to leave no one behind. Belize’s Prime Minister John Briceño expressed strong support, calling the declaration a powerful affirmation of SIDS’ unique challenges. AOSIS leaders are urging the UN, international organizations, and financial institutions to integrate these principles into global frameworks, particularly those addressing climate change, biodiversity, pollution, and ocean governance. The declaration warns that failure to act could weaken fairness, undermine international efforts, and limit small islands’ participation in global decision-making.
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Rotary Club Installs Peace Pole at Clare Hall Secondary
The Rotary Club of Antigua has unveiled a Peace Pole at Clare Hall Secondary School, marking a significant step in promoting peace and unity within the community. The installation, which took place recently, serves as a powerful symbol of hope, compassion, and the collective aspiration for a harmonious society. The Peace Pole carries a profound message: ‘Peace begins within—through thought, word, and action.’ It is designed to inspire students to embody peace in their daily lives, whether at home, in the classroom, or in their broader interactions. Rotary officials emphasized that the project aligns with the organization’s core principle of ‘Service Above Self,’ reflecting their commitment to fostering positive change. In a statement, the club expressed their vision for the monument: ‘Our mission shines brightest when rooted in hope. May this Peace Pole inspire a generation to lead with kindness and create a future filled with peace.’ The Rotary Club of Antigua has a long-standing history of contributing to education, health, and community development initiatives across the island, and this latest project underscores their dedication to nurturing a culture of peace among the youth.
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Antigua and Barbuda Government Pushes Ahead With Removal of Derelict Vehicles
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is ramping up its efforts to tackle the long-standing issue of abandoned vehicles littering roadsides and communities. Despite the initiative’s slow and complex progress, officials remain committed to the cause. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, revealed during a recent Cabinet press briefing that a dedicated team has been formed to systematically map the country by zones, identifying and marking derelict vehicles. Owners are given a 14-day notice to remove their vehicles; failure to comply results in the state taking control and disposing of them at designated dumpsites. Merchant emphasized the growing impatience of Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Cabinet members, who have repeatedly expressed frustration over the sluggish pace of the cleanup. The prime minister has consistently linked the initiative to broader beautification and greening projects, urging for accelerated action. Legal complexities, particularly regarding vehicles located on property boundaries, have further hindered progress. Officials are treading carefully to avoid disputes with property owners. The derelict vehicle cleanup is part of a larger national beautification campaign, which includes tree-planting along highways and a nationwide cleanup drive led by the Defence Force next month. These initiatives aim to enhance the country’s aesthetics, boost its tourism appeal, and foster community pride. Despite the challenges, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming Antigua and Barbuda’s landscape.