Barbadian women continue to shoulder the majority of caregiving, work, and social responsibilities, despite decades of advancements in gender equality, Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey stated on Tuesday. Speaking at the 30th anniversary commemoration of the Beijing Declaration at United Nations House in Christ Church, Humphrey highlighted the enduring gender disparities in Barbados. Between July 1 and September 15, the Welfare Department issued 2,478 back-to-school cheques totaling $1.62 million to assist children, with over 95% of applications submitted by women. These figures underscore not only financial needs but also the persistent imbalance in responsibilities between men and women. “Women bear a disproportionate share of daily burdens, especially during crises,” Humphrey emphasized. He stressed the necessity of data-driven solutions to address these inequities, referencing the ongoing country assessment of living conditions, which will inform a new poverty line by early 2026, and the planned establishment of the Social Empowerment Agency to enhance social service delivery. Humphrey also linked gender inequality to climate challenges, noting that women are disproportionately affected by climate disasters. “Eighty percent of those displaced by climate disasters are women and girls,” he said, warning that the climate crisis exacerbates existing inequities. Isiuwa Iyahen, head of UN Women’s Multi-Country Office for the Caribbean, echoed the call for action, recalling Caribbean women’s historical struggles against systemic barriers. Despite significant progress, disparities persist. Barbadian women earn 86-87% of men’s wages, and up to half of women with partners experience intimate-partner violence. Women also perform two to three times more unpaid care work than men, limiting their economic opportunities. “Laws alone are insufficient—financing, implementation, and cultural change are urgently needed,” Iyahen concluded.
标签： Barbados
巴巴多斯
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Farmers hoping for fresh investment in sugar industry after deal collapse
The Barbados Sugar Industries Limited (BSIL) is actively seeking a new investor following the breakdown of the government’s divestment agreement with the Barbados Sustainable Energy Co-operative Society Limited (Co-op Energy). BSIL Chairman Mark Sealy expressed concerns over the financial challenges faced by farmers, who have already invested heavily in equipment, land, and sugarcane cultivation. Sealy emphasized that the farmers lack the substantial capital required to upgrade the sole remaining sugar factory and manage government-run agricultural land. He dismissed rumors of farmers having significant financial resources, stating that their cash flow is severely depleted. The government recently terminated a March 2023 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Co-op Energy, which aimed to transfer the Barbados Agricultural Management Company’s (BAMC) sugar portfolio into two co-operative-run entities. Despite the setback, Sealy highlighted the critical role of the sugar industry in Barbados’ economy, tourism, and food security, particularly in producing molasses for high-end rums and maintaining the island’s aesthetics. He assured that the industry has continued to operate smoothly without Co-op Energy’s involvement and stressed that Barbados cannot afford to abandon the sugar industry, as it would lead to significant environmental and economic consequences.
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New scholarships to boost youth careers in construction, auto repair
Barbadian youth aspiring to build careers in construction and automotive repair have received a significant boost with the introduction of over $4,000 in new scholarships. This initiative stems from two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and local industry leaders Nirvana Construction Inc. and Automotive Art. The agreements, formalized on Tuesday at SJPI’s Wildey campus, aim to provide targeted financial support to students enrolled in masonry and motor vehicle engineering programmes. Nirvana Construction has pledged a $500 scholarship for students from Parkinson Memorial Secondary School entering the Certificate in Masonry programme. Eligible applicants must be Barbadian citizens aged 16 to 18 and submit a recommendation from a school official or coach. Steven Hinds, Managing Director of Nirvana Construction and an SJPI alumnus, emphasized the company’s dedication to youth development and the skilled trades. “We are big on young people. Being in the construction industry, we decided that we need to advance our skilled artisans,” he stated. Meanwhile, Automotive Art will award ten $400 scholarships to continuing students in the Motor Vehicle Engineering Technology and Vehicle Body Repair programmes. Jamon White, General Manager of Automotive Art, described the initiative as a small yet impactful investment in the nation’s future workforce. SJPI Principal Ian Drakes expressed enthusiasm for the partnerships, highlighting their role in making technical and vocational education more accessible. “These are exciting times, and they continue with corporate Barbados entrusting us to keep our technical vocational education going in a very positive and dynamic way,” Drakes remarked. These scholarships align with broader national efforts to attract and qualify more young Barbadians in skilled trades, particularly in construction and auto care. For further details, interested individuals can visit www.sjpi.edu.bb or contact SJPI Guidance Officer Shawna Carter at 246-836-7687. Applications close on September 30.
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Bostic’s presidential nomination signals rare political consensus – Wickham
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne have jointly nominated Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic as the island’s second president. Political analyst Peter Wickham interprets this consensus as a strong endorsement of Bostic’s credibility and impartiality, transcending political divides. Wickham emphasized that Thorne’s agreement to the nomination reflects confidence in Bostic’s ability to serve without conflict, avoiding a parliamentary vote that would have been a mere formality given the government’s majority. Bostic, a former Member of Parliament and Minister of Health and Wellness, gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wickham dismissed concerns about Bostic’s political background, noting that he has fulfilled the required cooling-off period from politics and is widely respected. However, retired lecturer Dr. George Belle downplayed the significance of the nomination, stating that it adheres to constitutional norms and reflects the reality of selecting politically affiliated individuals for such roles. Belle emphasized that the process, supported by both the prime minister and opposition leader, follows established protocols and will proceed to parliamentary affirmation. While some view the nomination as a positive step toward unity, others see it as a routine constitutional procedure.
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Bostic speaks on nomination
Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic, the nominated President of Barbados, is set to bring his pandemic-era mantra of “no retreat, no surrender” into a ceremonial role devoid of executive power. While Bostic refrained from elaborating on his nomination until parliamentary ratification, he emphasized that the mantra, which became synonymous with his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, remains a core part of his identity. “That is within me, that comes from within me, that is something that will remain with me,” Bostic told Barbados TODAY on Wednesday. He expressed elation at the nomination, stating, “I am indeed elated at the nomination to become the second president of Barbados,” but stressed the importance of respecting the parliamentary process. Bostic, who received the Order of Freedom of Barbados in 2022, highlighted his eagerness to serve the nation once more, pending ratification. The retired military officer, who became the public face of Barbados’ pandemic response, is set to succeed Dame Sandra Mason as Head of State on Independence Day. His leadership during the crisis, marked by a military-style focus, earned him national honours and widespread respect. Bostic, a former Cabinet Minister, is expected to receive full approval during a joint parliamentary session on October 7. His nomination was announced in Parliament by Deputy Speaker Neil Rowe, following correspondence from Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne. Bostic’s career spans military service, including as director of operations at the Regional Security System, and political representation of The City of Bridgetown.
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Port investigates viral social media video
The Barbados Port Inc. has initiated a formal investigation following the circulation of a controversial video on social media. The footage, which has garnered significant public attention, allegedly depicts several port employees mishandling a white Ferrari in a manner that has raised widespread concerns. The video, laden with expletives, shows individuals believed to be port workers displaying the imported luxury sports car and driving it recklessly within the port compound. The faces of the individuals involved are clearly visible in the footage. In a statement released on Saturday, the Barbados Port Inc. expressed sincere regret over the incident and acknowledged the concerns voiced by customers, the public, and other stakeholders. The statement emphasized that the Port does not condone such behavior, which contradicts its commitment and obligation as the custodian of cargo received at the Port of Bridgetown. The Port assured that it is taking the matter seriously and is addressing it through formal processes. Additionally, it is in contact with all relevant stakeholders and appreciates the patience and understanding of those impacted by the incident.
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Visitor ordered to compensate officer she assaulted
Michelle McElwee, a 44-year-old real estate agent from Los Angeles, California, found herself in legal trouble instead of enjoying the Grand Kadooment festival in Barbados. McElwee’s disruptive conduct aboard an Air Canada flight on July 30 led to her arrest and subsequent court appearance. She pleaded guilty to five charges, including refusing to comply with a flight crew member’s lawful instructions, assaulting both a crew member and a Barbados police officer, and possessing three grams of cannabis. The incident unfolded when McElwee became aggressive, swore at the crew, and resisted directions. The captain requested her removal for the safety of passengers and crew, prompting police intervention. Upon searching her luggage at the airport, officers discovered a package suspected to contain liquefied cannabis. McElwee claimed it was for relaxation. Further resistance occurred when she concealed an object under her breast and refused to surrender it, pushing the officer attempting to retrieve it. Her defense attorney, Mohia Ma’at, highlighted her nine-day detention at Dodds Prison and her health issues, including a mild heart attack during her stay. McElwee, a mental health therapist, apologized for her behavior, expressing remorse to the crew, police, and passengers. Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes emphasized the need for accountability, ordering her to compensate the police officer $2,000 within seven days or face 30 days in jail. She was convicted and reprimanded for the other offenses and is set to return to court on Monday.
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Barbados set for Caribbean’s largest green hydrogen plant
Barbados is set to revolutionize its energy landscape with the construction of a $350 million hybrid renewable energy power plant, the largest and most advanced of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean. Slated to commence by March 2024, the project will be developed at Harrow Plantation in St Philip by Renewstable (Barbados) Inc. (RSB), a special purpose vehicle co-owned by Hydrogène de France (HDF Energy) and Rubis Caribbean Holdings Inc. The facility, expected to be operational within two years, will combine cutting-edge technologies, including hydrogen power, solar PV, and battery storage, to deliver a stable, non-intermittent electricity supply to the national grid. With a capacity of 50MW solar PV, it will dwarf the existing 10MW BLPC plant at Trent’s, St Lucy, becoming the country’s largest solar installation. The project is projected to create 150 jobs during construction and 20 permanent roles post-completion. RSB has applied to the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) for approval of the rate it will charge the Barbados Light and Power Company (BLPC) under a 25-year power purchase agreement. The FTC is currently evaluating the rate methodology through a public consultation process, with submissions due by September 1. Strategic adviser Aidan Rogers emphasized that the project’s innovative use of hydrogen technology, including water electrolysis and fuel cells, ensures large-volume storage capacity for clean energy. The initiative has already secured Town and Country Planning approval, a license from the Ministry of Energy, and passed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Development specialist Meshia Clarke highlighted additional benefits, including job opportunities in transport, logistics, and a planned sheep farm hosting 800 blackbelly sheep. The project underscores Barbados’ commitment to sustainable energy and economic growth.
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US visa bond plan sparks uncertainty in Barbados
Barbadian officials are grappling with uncertainty as the United States gears up to implement a contentious visa bond policy later this month. The policy, disclosed by the US State Department, mandates visa applicants from select countries to post bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to secure a US visa. Initially, the pilot program will target citizens of Malawi and Zambia, with the possibility of expanding to other nations identified as having high visa overstay rates, inadequate vetting procedures, or citizenship-by-investment programs. Barbados’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kerrie Symmonds, expressed ambiguity about the policy’s potential impact on Barbadian travelers, stating, ‘I’m not entirely certain at this point, if, and how this will actually relate to us.’ The visas issued under this scheme will be valid for a single entry, with a maximum stay of 30 days within a three-month period. Applicants who comply with all visa conditions, including timely departure or proper filing for extensions, will receive a full refund of their bond. The pilot program is set to run until August 5, 2024, with its outcomes informing future decisions on visa bond implementation to address national security and foreign policy concerns.
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Police probe unnatural death of guest at Hilton Barbados
Authorities in Barbados have launched an investigation into the unnatural death of a foreign guest at the Hilton Barbados Resort. Annmarie Thompson, the Director of Sales and Marketing at the hotel, confirmed the incident during a visit by Barbados TODAY, expressing profound sorrow over the guest’s unexpected demise. While the family of the deceased has been informed, the hotel has refrained from disclosing the individual’s identity, citing strict privacy protocols. Thompson assured the public that the resort continues to operate normally, with no disruptions to its services. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.