标签： Dominica

The community of Portsmouth is reeling from yet another tragic loss as 24-year-old Juwan Neon Warner became the latest victim of gun violence. Warner, a resident of Georgetown, Glanvillia, was fatally shot on the porch of his home at approximately 9:15 pm last night. This incident marks the second shooting death in the Portsmouth area this month, following the killing of 33-year-old Dwight Maximea on September 14, 2025. The recent surge in gun-related fatalities has raised alarm among local authorities and residents alike. Police are actively investigating both cases, but no arrests have been made yet. The escalating violence underscores the urgent need for community intervention and stricter law enforcement measures to curb the growing trend of gun crimes on the island.

The vibrant streets of Roseau are set to come alive this afternoon as the much-anticipated Independence Opening Parade kicks off at 3 pm on September 27, 2025. Following yesterday’s official Independence opening ceremony, the parade promises to be a grand celebration of national pride and cultural heritage. Chief Cultural Officer Earlson Matthew has unveiled several exciting changes and enhancements to this year’s event, ensuring it stands out from previous editions. One of the most notable additions is the re-introduction of the Cadet Corps, bringing back the iconic marching band element that once defined the parade. This year’s festivities will also place a stronger emphasis on local dance traditions, featuring bèlè and European round dances, alongside double the number of live amplified bands compared to last year. Matthew has urged attendees to don traditional madras attire to fully immerse themselves in the celebrations. The parade will showcase a diverse array of cultural groups and performers, including the Flambouyant Dancers, Kalinago Traditional Mas, Veteran 7, Paix Bouche Drummers, and the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company, among others. For those unable to attend in person, live coverage of the parade will be available on DNO’s main page and Facebook starting at 3 pm. This year’s Independence Parade not only honors the nation’s history but also highlights the richness and diversity of its cultural tapestry.

Despite significant strides in education, poverty reduction, and productivity over the past three decades, entrenched inequalities, eroding trust in institutions, and sluggish advancements in key areas continue to impede global social justice, according to a recent report by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Titled ‘The State of Social Justice: A Work in Progress,’ the report reveals that 71 percent of an individual’s income is still heavily determined by factors such as their country of birth and gender. Published ahead of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha and marking the 30th anniversary of the 1995 Copenhagen Summit on Social Development, the study acknowledges that while global wealth, health, and education levels have improved since 1995, these benefits have not been equitably distributed, and progress in reducing inequality has stagnated. The report highlights a steady decline in public trust in institutions since 1982, fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with perceived unfair rewards for effort. The ILO warns that without urgent efforts to strengthen the social contract, this erosion of trust could undermine democratic governance and international cooperation. On a positive note, the report points to notable achievements, including a 50 percent reduction in child labor among children aged 5 to 14, a drop in extreme poverty from 39 to 10 percent, a ten percentage point increase in primary education completion rates, and social protection coverage for over half of the global population. However, persistent challenges remain: 58 percent of workers are still in informal employment, the gender participation gap in the workforce has only slightly decreased since 2005, and closing the global gender wage gap could take a century at current rates. These issues are exacerbated by rapid environmental, digital, and demographic changes reshaping labor markets at an unprecedented pace. The ILO emphasizes that without targeted policies, disparities will deepen, but strategic interventions—such as investing in skills development, social safety nets, equitable wage policies, and active labor market programs—can foster inclusion and resilience. ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo stressed, ‘Social justice is not only a moral imperative—it is essential for economic security, social cohesion, and peace.’ The report calls for immediate action to address unequal access to opportunities, promote fairer economic benefits distribution, and manage global shifts in a way that leaves no one behind. It also advocates for embedding social justice at the core of all policy frameworks and enhancing collaboration among governments, international agencies, and social partners. The findings are expected to shape discussions at the upcoming World Social Summit in November and support the initiatives of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, led by the ILO, which unites stakeholders committed to building fairer and more inclusive societies.

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.

In the final episode of ‘The Change Maker,’ we spotlight Wynante Adrien-Roberts, a distinguished legal professional whose life and career are deeply rooted in her faith and love for family. Known for her humility and unwavering commitment, Adrien-Roberts has navigated numerous challenges with grace, consistently serving her community with integrity and excellence. Her expertise and wisdom have made her an indispensable figure in the legal landscape of our region. This profile not only celebrates her professional achievements but also highlights her personal values that inspire those around her.