标签： Dominica

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has announced a significant restructuring of its operational framework in Haiti, marking a pivotal shift in its regional strategy. Effective January 1, 2026, the oversight of Haiti’s institutional engagement will transition from the ILO Office for Central America in San Jose, Costa Rica, to the ILO Office for the Caribbean in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. This strategic decision, endorsed by ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, stems from a thorough review of the organization’s regional structures as it nears the 56th anniversary of its Caribbean presence. The move aims to enhance technical assistance, responsiveness, and support mechanisms tailored specifically for Haiti, while fostering stronger collaboration with tripartite stakeholders—government authorities, workers’ representatives, and employers. Ana Virginia Moreira Gomes, ILO Assistant Director-General and Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasized that the relocation underscores the ILO’s commitment to optimizing its support in the Caribbean and ensuring uninterrupted progress toward productive employment, decent work, and social justice. The transition process, though in its early stages, is being meticulously managed to ensure a seamless shift, with existing commitments and initiatives in Haiti expected to continue without disruption. This realignment also opens new avenues for regional cooperation under the Caribbean Office’s guidance. Since its inception in 1969, the ILO Office for the Caribbean has worked closely with governments, worker organizations, and employer groups to advance the Decent Work Agenda and promote inclusive economic growth across the region. The inclusion of Haiti into this framework further solidifies the ILO’s regional commitment and expands its influence. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of increased engagement with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), of which Haiti is a member. He reiterated the ILO’s dedication to collaborating with Haitian partners to strengthen labor institutions, improve employment outcomes, and support the country’s journey toward social justice and sustainable development.

The family of Chad Joseph, a 26-year-old from Trinidad and Tobago, has accused the U.S. military of killing him in a recent strike on vessels near Venezuela. Joseph, who had been living in Venezuela for several months, informed his family of his plan to return home by boat but never arrived. Reports suggest he was among six individuals on a vessel allegedly involved in drug trafficking, which the U.S. targeted and destroyed. This incident is part of a series of strikes initiated by the Trump administration, resulting in 27 deaths so far. However, the identities of the deceased remain undisclosed, leaving families in distress. Joseph’s mother, Lenore Burnley, expressed her disbelief and anguish, stating, ‘I don’t want to believe that this is my child. Is this really true?’ The family vehemently denies any involvement of Joseph in illegal activities. Another Trinidadian, Rishi Samaroo, from the same fishing village, is also missing and believed to be on the vessel. Trinidad and Tobago’s Defense Minister Wayne Sturge confirmed that the government has not received official confirmation of the victims’ identities and lacks jurisdiction to investigate, as the incident occurred in international waters. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has supported Trump’s anti-drug efforts, despite criticism from some who view it as undermining CARICOM’s stance on maintaining the Caribbean as a ‘Zone of Peace.’ Legal experts and international observers have questioned the legality of the U.S. military’s actions, arguing that targeting civilians without due process violates international law. Families of the missing have received no communication from the government, adding to their grief and frustration.