标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda has officially commenced the 16 Days of Activism campaign, a global initiative aimed at eradicating gender-based violence. The campaign, which began on November 25th—the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—will run until December 10th, Human Rights Day. This year’s theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” underscores the growing concern over online harassment and abuse targeting women and girls. The Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, through its Directorate of Gender Affairs, is spearheading the campaign’s coordination. Honorable Rawdon Turner, Minister for Social and Urban Transformation, emphasized the campaign’s significance, stating, “The 16 Days of Activism provides a crucial platform for government, civil society, the private sector, and citizens to advocate, learn, share experiences, and take meaningful action to raise awareness and ultimately eradicate gender-based violence.” A series of events have been planned to mark the occasion, including Orange Day, where citizens are encouraged to wear orange in solidarity with survivors, a media day to amplify awareness, and a high-level press conference addressing the national state of gender-based violence. Other activities include a Support and Referral Centre Open House, a youth parliament debate, a church service, a poster competition, and a panel discussion on digital gender-based violence. Minister Turner issued a rallying call to the nation, urging citizens to be fearless advocates for survivors and to contribute to making Antigua and Barbuda a regional leader in gender-based violence response. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing gender equality and eliminating gender-based violence through policies, programs, and legislation.

On Wednesday, 19 November 2025, the University of London bestowed the prestigious title of Honorary Doctor of Social Sciences upon Professor Sir Hilary Beckles. The ceremony, held on the university’s Foundation Day, commemorated its 189th anniversary and took place at Senate House, the institution’s administrative hub, under the patronage of Chancellor Her Royal Highness Princess Anne. During the event, orator Professor Kingsley Abbott lauded Sir Hilary for his decades of exceptional scholarship, leadership in higher education, and groundbreaking advocacy for social justice globally. Born into the ‘Windrush’ generation, Sir Hilary’s academic journey began in the UK, where he earned a PhD in Economic History from Hull University at just 24 years old. His career soared as he became the youngest professor at the University of the West Indies at 35, later serving as its Vice-Chancellor. Today, he holds dual roles as Chancellor of the United Nations University and Distinguished Chancellor’s Visiting Professor at Cornell University. In his acceptance speech, Sir Hilary dedicated the honor to the University of the West Indies, which he described as his academic ancestral home, tracing its roots back to the University of London in 1948. He also reflected on his time as a Senior Research Fellow at the university 39 years ago, where he published his first major academic work. The University of the West Indies, established in 1948 with 33 medical students, has since grown into a globally respected institution with nearly 50,000 students across five campuses and international centers. It offers over 1,000 programs in diverse fields and is recognized in the Times Higher Education rankings for its contributions to research and sustainable development. Its International School for Development Justice (ISD) further cements its commitment to fostering future leaders in sustainable development.

A prominent luxury resort has come under scrutiny after dismissing at least six employees who reported stomach pain during their shift, sparking widespread concern about worker treatment and disciplinary practices in the hospitality sector. The terminations followed a month-long suspension and internal investigation into an incident on October 19, 2025, when several staff members left work early due to illness. Management deemed their departure a disruption to guest services and a violation of Section C58 of the Labour Code, labeling it as misconduct justifying immediate dismissal. Termination letters reviewed by this newsroom suggested that the employees’ complaints of stomach pain were interpreted as a coordinated effort to stage a work stoppage, which the resort claimed ‘eroded trust and confidence’ essential for employment. Notably, the employer has not provided medical evidence to refute the employees’ claims of illness, raising questions about the fairness of the dismissals. Labour experts emphasize that sudden illnesses at work are typically treated as health issues rather than misconduct unless clear evidence of industrial action exists. The decision has left six families without their primary income, prompting urgent discussions about how employers should handle multiple workers falling ill simultaneously and whether current policies adequately protect employees from severe disciplinary actions. This remains a developing story.

The much-anticipated road resurfacing project in Fitches Creek has officially commenced, with construction crews initiating the critical first phase of preparing the road base. This foundational step is essential for ensuring the durability and quality of the upcoming asphalt overlay. The project, aimed at enhancing road safety and improving transportation infrastructure, has been welcomed by local residents and commuters who have long faced challenges with the current road conditions. Authorities have emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader effort to upgrade and maintain key roadways across the region. While the timeline for completion remains undisclosed, the start of base preparation signals significant progress toward the project’s final goal of delivering a smoother and more reliable road surface.