Carib Scope

标签： Dominica

多米尼克

  • UPP concerned about US visa sanctions, blames government mismanagement of CBI Programme

    UPP concerned about US visa sanctions, blames government mismanagement of CBI Programme

    The United Progressive Party (UPP) has characterized recent US-imposed visa restrictions on Dominican nationals as a catastrophic failure of governance, accusing the administration of jeopardizing national security through inadequate management of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

    In a strongly-worded declaration, the opposition party asserted that President Donald Trump’s suspension of immigrant entry and restrictions on B-1, B-2, F, M, and J visas directly resulted from governmental negligence. The UPP maintains that despite official assurances of rigorous screening protocols, the administration prioritized economic gains over effective due diligence, ultimately compelling American authorities to designate Dominican passports as security liabilities.

    According to the party’s analysis, the repercussions extend far beyond diplomatic spheres, creating tangible hardships for citizens across multiple sectors. Students confront disrupted academic trajectories in American institutions, families experience heightened barriers to reunification, and business professionals face constrained international mobility. The UPP further warned that Dominica’s regional standing within the Caribbean community has been significantly compromised, potentially affecting future cooperation and economic opportunities.

    Characterizing the situation as a generational crisis, the opposition outlined a comprehensive recovery plan demanding full transparency regarding CBI program failures, immediate collaboration with US authorities to address security concerns, and substantial reforms to align vetting procedures with international standards. The party additionally called for establishing a bipartisan commission to investigate the program’s management and ensure accountability for those responsible.

    The UPP concluded that only through fundamentally reformed leadership committed to integrity could Dominica restore its international reputation, emphasizing that the nation’s future depends on urgent governmental accountability.

  • STATEMENT: Ministry of Foreign Affairs on US visa sanctions

    STATEMENT: Ministry of Foreign Affairs on US visa sanctions

    The Commonwealth of Dominica has formally responded to the United States government’s recent imposition of partial travel restrictions targeting Dominican nationals. The White House disclosed this diplomatic decision on December 16, 2025, with implementation scheduled for January 1, 2026.

    In an official statement, Dominican authorities acknowledged potential concerns arising from this development while emphasizing their serious and urgent approach to the matter. The government has initiated high-level communications with the United States Embassy based in Bridgetown, Barbados, seeking comprehensive clarification regarding multiple aspects of the new measures.

    Diplomatic engagements focus on three primary objectives: determining the precise scope of restrictions, understanding the foundational rationale behind the implementation, and identifying specific consequences for Dominican travelers, international students, family members, and legitimate visa holders. The government has committed to protecting citizen interests through continued collaboration with American officials to resolve identified challenges.

    Transparency remains a priority throughout these diplomatic exchanges, with authorities pledging to provide accurate information to the public as developments occur. The government has promised subsequent updates once additional details are formally confirmed through diplomatic channels.

  • Dominica and Antigua added to U.S. entry restrictions under Trump proclamation

    Dominica and Antigua added to U.S. entry restrictions under Trump proclamation

    The United States has significantly expanded its travel restriction policies targeting several Caribbean nations, citing substantial national security vulnerabilities. President Donald Trump’s December 16th proclamation adds Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda to existing entry limitations previously imposed on Haiti and Cuba.

    The executive order specifically identifies weaknesses in foreign identity-management systems as creating unacceptable risks for American security agencies. According to the document, these deficiencies severely hinder the U.S. government’s ability to conduct thorough vetting procedures for travelers seeking entry into the country.

    Haiti continues to face comprehensive entry suspensions covering both immigrant and nonimmigrant travel categories. Cuba maintains its partial restrictions across similar visa classifications. The newly designated nations—Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica—now face specific limitations that bar their nationals from entering the United States as immigrants or on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas.

    A central concern highlighted in the proclamation involves Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) programs operated by both newly added countries. These initiatives permit individuals to obtain citizenship through financial investment without establishing residency, creating potential pathways for citizens from restricted countries to acquire new passports and apply for U.S. visas under different nationalities.

    U.S. law enforcement and State Department assessments have historically identified CBI programs as vulnerable to exploitation, including identity concealment, asset hiding, and circumvention of existing travel and financial restrictions.

    Notably exempt from the restrictions are lawful permanent residents, dual nationals traveling on passports from non-designated countries, specific diplomatic and official visa categories, and individuals attending major international sporting events. Refugees and asylees already within the United States also remain exempt, with the proclamation explicitly preserving rights to seek humanitarian protections under U.S. law.

    The restrictions will become effective at 12:01 a.m. EST on January 1, 2026, with mandatory reviews scheduled every 180 days to assess whether measures should be continued, modified, or terminated. The U.S. government will concurrently engage with affected nations to improve screening, vetting, and information-sharing protocols.

  • Dominica among Caribbean nations reportedly barred by Norway despite visa-free status

    Dominica among Caribbean nations reportedly barred by Norway despite visa-free status

    Despite official assurances from Norwegian authorities, passport holders from five Caribbean nations participating in Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are facing systematic entry refusals and deportations at Norwegian airports, according to investigations by Immigration Migration Insider (IMI).

    Since August 2024, travelers carrying CBI passports from Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and Saint Lucia have encountered heightened scrutiny and denial of entry at both Bergen and Oslo international airports. Border control officers have been specifically interrogating these individuals about their method of obtaining citizenship, despite these countries historically enjoying visa-free travel privileges to Norway under the Schengen arrangement.

    The situation presents a stark contradiction between official policy and on-the-ground implementation. Norway’s Directorate of Immigration (UDI) explicitly stated in August that visa-free access for these Caribbean nations remained unchanged. However, IMI has documented multiple instances where Norwegian police have invoked Section 17 of the Immigration Act to declare CBI passports invalid, citing Norway’s requirement for personal attendance during passport issuance as grounds for refusal.

    Notable incidents include an Indian national using a Saint Kitts and Nevis passport who was promptly removed from Bergen Airport in August after authorities deemed his travel document “not valid in Norway.” In a separate November occurrence, two Dominican citizens were detained overnight in Oslo, subjected to intensive questioning regarding their passports, and subsequently deported the following day.

    Several immigration consultancies—including Latitude, Cross Border Freedom, and Apex Capital Partners—have confirmed multiple cases affecting their clients. Industry experts challenge Norway’s justification, pointing out that numerous countries, including the United Kingdom and United States, permit remote passport renewal procedures without compromising international recognition of these documents.

    The Norwegian government has not issued any public directive regarding this apparent policy shift, maintaining that current border enforcement actions merely reflect “general policy” implementation. This development creates a paradoxical situation where Caribbean CBI nations technically retain visa-free status on paper while their citizens face effective exclusion in practice.

  • China awards scholarships to Dominica State College students

    China awards scholarships to Dominica State College students

    In a significant demonstration of international educational cooperation, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China has conferred scholarships worth US$1,000 each to 22 deserving students from Dominica State College (DSC). This ceremony, now in its third consecutive year, also honored three exceptional students who demonstrated remarkable proficiency in Chinese language studies through the DSC Confucius Classroom with special achievement awards.

    The Chinese Ambassador Scholarship Programme represents a strategic effort to inspire academic distinction among Dominican scholars while fostering deeper understanding of Chinese linguistic and cultural traditions. This initiative simultaneously strengthens the educational partnership framework between Dominica and China, creating pathways for mutual exchange and collaboration.

    Education Minister Hon. Octavia Alfred, during her address at the awards ceremony, extended profound appreciation to China for its sustained contribution to Dominica’s national development. She emphasized how Chinese-supported educational programs, training opportunities, and technical assistance have fundamentally enhanced the country’s professional capabilities and workforce competitiveness.

    ‘China has consistently proven to be a dependable development ally to Dominica,’ Minister Alfred stated. ‘Through comprehensive support spanning scholarships, career advancement initiatives, infrastructure development, and sector-wide assistance, China has made substantial investments in our human resource development and national progress. This collaboration extends beyond education into healthcare, agriculture, and numerous other sectors.’

    The Minister further detailed current Sino-Dominican educational projects, including the construction of five new primary institutions and one secondary school. Among these, two facilities will operate as Centers of Excellence dedicated to Special Education and Technical/Vocational Training.

    Chinese Ambassador H.E. Chu Maoming congratulated the scholarship beneficiaries while encouraging them to pursue excellence and actively engage with cultural learning opportunities. ‘Youth embody our collective future and represent both the custodians and catalysts of the cordial relations and cooperative ventures between China and Dominica,’ Ambassador Chu remarked. ‘I encourage you to connect your personal aspirations and accomplishments with the enduring friendship and collaboration between our nations, serving as ambassadors of bilateral goodwill while achieving your individual potential.’

    Ambassador Chu confirmed the continuation of both Chinese Government and Ambassador Scholarship programs into the upcoming year, alongside expanded cultural and educational exchanges designed to deepen bilateral relations.

  • Chief Magistrate Carrette-George reports on night court progress

    Chief Magistrate Carrette-George reports on night court progress

    Dominica’s judicial system is demonstrating measurable progress in addressing case backlogs through its reintroduced night court program, according to Chief Magistrate Candia Carrette-George. The initiative, which resumed operations in September 2025 at the magistrates’ court in Roseau, represents a significant reform effort aimed at enhancing access to justice and improving judicial efficiency.

    The night court was originally designed to operate from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., though practical adjustments have been implemented to address criminal matters between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., with new cases commencing thereafter. Initial implementation challenges included delays in document service by police and bailiffs, alongside concerns regarding transportation accessibility for litigants during extended hours. The court administration responded by strategically scheduling cases for individuals from areas with reliable evening bus services, resulting in improved attendance patterns.

    Initially focusing on civil matters, the night court has successfully resolved numerous cases through ex parte hearings and in-person trials. While criminal trials for detained individuals remain constrained by prison intake schedules, the program anticipates expanding to include bail cases and private criminal matters in the near future.

    Performance data reveals consistent progress: 20 cases were completed in September 2025, followed by 28 matters between October 1-13, and 38 cases resolved from November 1 through December 9. This upward trend demonstrates the program’s growing effectiveness in reducing the longstanding backlog.

    Complementing these efforts, Dominica’s judiciary has strengthened its capacity with three new magistrate appointments. Marie-Louise Pierre-Louis assumed her role in September 2025, another magistrate was sworn in late November, and a third appointment is imminent. These additions will enable full utilization of all six courtrooms in Roseau.

    Beginning January 2026, the judiciary will implement case management hearings to evaluate trial readiness and assess suitability for night court proceedings. Additionally, technological enhancements include the upcoming installation of two Liberty recording systems featuring AI-powered transcription capabilities. These systems will provide verbatim recording, individual speaker channel separation, and clerk-inserted bookmarks for efficient reference.

    The Coroner’s Court is also undergoing reforms, with plans to establish a dedicated courtroom to facilitate daily sittings instead of the current three weekly sessions, potentially accelerating inquest completions.

    Chief Magistrate Carrette-George emphasized that as public and legal professionals increasingly embrace the night court concept, coupled with expanded judicial resources, the initiative is poised to become an integrated component of Dominica’s justice delivery system, effectively addressing historical delays in case disposition.

  • Atkinson Sewenal Festival returns after seven-year hiatus

    Atkinson Sewenal Festival returns after seven-year hiatus

    The culturally significant Atkinson Sewenal Festival is poised for a triumphant return on December 21st after a seven-year absence, marking a revitalization of Dominican Christmas traditions in the village of Atkinson. Hosted by the Honourable Cozier Frederick and the Atkinson Village Council with principal sponsorship from the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, the event commences at 5 p.m., signaling a major cultural renaissance.

    This festival represents more than mere entertainment—it serves as a profound cultural homecoming that celebrates community resilience, heritage preservation, and intergenerational connection through musical expression. The government’s headline sponsorship demonstrates a strategic commitment to supporting community-based cultural initiatives that strengthen national identity.

    Attendees will experience an immersive celebration blending traditional carolling, indigenous Kalinago heritage presentations, authentic Jing Ping rhythms, and contemporary performances within an authentic village atmosphere. This carefully curated fusion honors historical Christmas customs while creating space for modern artistic expression.

    The extensive performance lineup showcases Dominica’s cultural richness, featuring Warner Jing Ping, Ban Akayo of Atkinson, the Kalinago Culture Group, Ti Bwa of Woodford Hill, and renowned artists including Francina Laurent and Willis Joseph. Musical diversity continues with the Colihaut Caroling Group, Atkinson Catholic Choir, Sawil Challenger, Swinging Stars, Signal Band, and DJs Athie, Remz, and Flip ensuring continuous entertainment.

    Organizers emphasize that the festival transcends conventional concert experiences by creating a multidimensional celebration of togetherness that bridges generations through shared musical heritage. The event welcomes families, visitors, and music enthusiasts nationwide to participate in this reestablished tradition that reinforces cultural pride and community spirit during the holiday season.

  • Blackmoore announces decentralization of driver’s license issuance to Portsmouth and Marigot

    Blackmoore announces decentralization of driver’s license issuance to Portsmouth and Marigot

    In a significant move toward governmental decentralization, National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore has unveiled plans to relocate driver’s license issuance services from the capital to regional centers starting January 2026. The initiative marks a transformative shift in public service delivery for the island nation.

    During a press briefing, Minister Blackmoore detailed the comprehensive preparations undertaken through multi-ministry collaborations spanning several years. “We have moved beyond theoretical discussions to concrete action,” Blackmoore stated. “My mandate from the Prime Minister requires every department head to facilitate this decentralization without exception.”

    The government has already acquired specialized equipment valued at $112,000 within the current fiscal allocation. However, the discovery of a missing laminator has prompted an official investigation led by the Police Commissioner. “Driver’s license production cannot proceed without this critical component,” Blackmoore emphasized. “We have initiated a thorough inquiry while simultaneously ordering two replacement laminators.”

    Portsmouth will launch license issuance operations during the first week of January 2026, mirroring Roseau’s existing services. Concurrently, background checks are underway for personnel designated to handle photographic and printing responsibilities. Marigot is scheduled to commence operations by the second quarter of 2026 following equipment installation.

    Expanding beyond transportation services, Blackmoore announced parallel plans to decentralize vital document certification. “Why should citizens travel from Tranto to Roseau merely to obtain birth certificates?” he questioned. The decentralization program will extend to marriage and death certificates across multiple regions including Castle Bruce, La Plaine, and Grand Bay.

    The ministry has completed logistical assessments and consulted with the Registrar General to ensure seamless implementation. “Preliminary inspections already occur in Portsmouth,” Blackmoore noted, “but we are advancing toward full-service capability. This represents the culmination of prolonged governmental efforts—the era of deliberation has ended, and the phase of execution has begun.”

  • COMMENTARY: Celebrating 1,000 posts from Dominica to thousands of art students and artists worldwide

    COMMENTARY: Celebrating 1,000 posts from Dominica to thousands of art students and artists worldwide

    What began as a commission to create a memorial statue for the late Dominican Prime Minister Rosie Douglas has evolved into one of the art world’s most extensive digital archives. British sculptor Jonathan R. Ford, initially invited by Prime Minister Pierre Charles to establish his studio in Dominica, has transformed a canceled bronze monument project into an unprecedented global educational resource.

    Despite the abandonment of the life-size bronze sculpture that would have depicted Douglas alongside two local schoolchildren, Ford remained in Dominica. From his Antrim studio, he has cultivated an online presence that now serves over half a million art students, artists, and enthusiasts worldwide—far exceeding the original intent of skill-sharing with Dominicans.

    Ford’s digital diary, which predates the modern blog era, represents thirty years of meticulous documentation. Beginning as a means for UK schoolchildren to follow his sculptural commissions, the project has grown into a comprehensive chronicle of artistic creation. The platform now stands as a pioneering force in art education, having transitioned from laborious nightly website updates to becoming one of the web’s most respected art resources.

    The multidisciplinary artist—who operates as painter, sculptor, printmaker, publisher, illustrator, stamp designer, writer, filmmaker, engineer, inventor, architect, fashion designer, and craftsman—records every facet of the creative process. His diary offers unprecedented insight into the triumphs and challenges faced by working artists, serving as both inspiration for aspiring creators and valuable teaching aid for educational institutions.

    This week marks a significant milestone: the one-thousandth post from Dominica. Over fifteen years, the diary has attracted viewership from art professionals and students across 90 countries. Ford has expanded the project’s reach through twelve published books and twenty-six instructional videos, all accessible through his comprehensive online portal at studiopublications.org/blog.

    The archive stands as testament to how traditional artistic practice can successfully transition into the digital age, creating unexpected global connections while maintaining the authenticity of hands-on creative work.

  • Fontaine urges party unity after narrow UWP leadership win

    Fontaine urges party unity after narrow UWP leadership win

    Following a tightly contested leadership election, Dr. Thomson Fontaine has secured another term as political leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) while issuing a compelling plea for internal unity. The decisive vote occurred during the party’s 35th annual delegates conference at Goodwill Parish Hall, where Fontaine narrowly defeated challenger Pastor Randy Rodney by a margin of 83 votes to 75.

    In his victory address, Fontaine directly addressed the factionalism within party ranks, emphasizing that internal divisions must cease for the UWP to achieve electoral success. ‘Together, let us combine our efforts. Stop seeing fault in your leader and let us stand together,’ Fontaine urged delegates. He delivered a stark warning against passive opposition within the party: ‘It is not acceptable that you sit on the sidelines hoping that I fail as a leader. If one of us fails, all of us fail.’

    Framing the party’s mission as critically important for national development, Fontaine asserted, ‘This is not child play. There is too heavy a price to pay. If we fail, we are talking about the future of this country.’ He acknowledged implementing unconventional strategies distinct from traditional approaches, requesting patience from party members: ‘I am doing some things differently in 2025. We are not in 1988. Some of what I am doing may be different because we are not used to it.’

    Fontaine expressed measured optimism regarding the party’s growing appeal, noting that an increasing number of Dominican citizens are responding positively to the UWP’s message of shared prosperity. ‘Persons who previously dismissed our party are willing to give us a second chance,’ he observed, highlighting attraction to his vision of national transformation under a united party government. The re-elected leader concluded by reaffirming his commitment to guide the UWP into the next general election with renewed determination and collective purpose.