As geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela intensify, Caribbean nations, led by Saint Lucia, are rallying for dialogue and reaffirming the region’s status as a ‘Zone of Peace.’ During his address at the United Nations General Assembly, Saint Lucia’s External Affairs Minister, Alva Baptiste, emphasized the importance of diplomacy and peaceful resolution of conflicts, particularly referencing the 2014 declaration by Latin American and Caribbean leaders that established the region as a peace zone under the principles of the UN Charter. Baptiste expressed concern over the escalating tensions between Venezuela and the US, urging both nations to avoid violence. He also highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution to the Venezuela-Guyana border dispute and called for an end to the US embargo on Cuba. Additionally, Baptiste underscored the role of small nations in advocating for non-violent diplomacy and addressing regional crises, such as the ongoing turmoil in Haiti. CARICOM leaders, including Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley and St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, echoed these sentiments, warning against unilateral militarization and stressing the importance of regional stability. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar offered conditional support for US military operations in the Caribbean, citing a reduction in crime as a positive outcome. Back in Saint Lucia, Police Commissioner Verne Garde emphasized the importance of strengthening border security to combat illegal trafficking, while maintaining regional collaboration with neighboring nations. The collective call for peace comes amid recent confrontations between the US and Venezuela, including accusations of illegal incursions and military strikes in the Caribbean Sea.
标签： Saint Lucia
圣卢西亚
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Israel confirms signing phase one of Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas
The Israeli government has officially confirmed the signing of the first phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, marking a significant step toward ending the prolonged conflict in Gaza. The war, which has claimed the lives of over 67,000 Palestinians over two years, has seen intense negotiations culminating in this pivotal deal. The agreement was finalized in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, on the morning of October 9, following three days of rigorous discussions, as reported by Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian. This initial phase aligns with U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to resolve the conflict. Key provisions include the release of the remaining Israeli captives in Gaza—20 of whom are believed to be alive—within 72 hours, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, Israel is required to withdraw its troops to a mutually agreed-upon line. The ceasefire is set to take effect 24 hours after Israel’s Cabinet ratifies the agreement, expected later this evening. Once the 24-hour period concludes, the 72-hour window for the captives’ release will commence. However, the Israeli spokesperson clarified that Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti will not be part of the prisoner exchange, a decision likely to provoke discontent among Palestinians. Furthermore, Israel will retain control over more than half of Gaza despite the troop withdrawal stipulated in the deal.
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Are our waste habits tarnishing the country’s beauty?
Beneath the lush landscapes and pristine beaches that make Saint Lucia a Caribbean paradise lies a growing environmental crisis—widespread littering and improper waste disposal. Dr. James Fletcher, Saint Lucia’s former Minister for Sustainable Development and current CARICOM Climate Envoy, has highlighted the island’s struggle with roadside garbage, polluted rivers, and beaches strewn with plastic. Despite its reputation as ‘The Helen of the West Indies,’ the island’s waste problem is among the worst in the region, threatening both its natural beauty and public health. Fletcher emphasizes that the issue extends beyond aesthetics, with blocked drains causing flooding, plastic waste harming marine life, and food waste attracting pests. He calls for a fundamental shift in public behavior, supported by stronger policies and affordable alternatives to single-use plastics. While initiatives like the Styrofoam and Plastics (Prohibition) Act and private sector efforts, such as Massy Stores’ plastic bag charge, have shown progress, Fletcher stresses the need for comprehensive solutions, including education, awareness campaigns, and innovative packaging made from local materials like banana stems or bamboo. The challenge, he notes, lies in changing entrenched habits, particularly among adults, to ensure long-term sustainability.
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Gregory Sinaise, proudly continuing the Kwéyòl heritage legacy
The vibrant community of Belle Vue in north Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, is widely recognized as the cultural capital of the island. Known for nurturing cultural legends such as the late Rameau Poleon and Patrick Gilo Benjamin, as well as the 2024 Groovy Monarch Sly, Belle Vue is a hub of traditional music, dance, and celebrations. Recently, the community honored one of its most cherished cultural figures, Gregory Sinaise, as part of its Kwéyòl Heritage Month festivities. Sinaise, a celebrated singer, musician, and lyricist, is a pillar of Kwéyòl heritage and a respected figure in Saint Lucia and the French diaspora. His contributions to the annual Kwéyòl Song Competition, including victories in 2014 and 2015, have cemented his legacy. Sinaise’s hit song ‘Lakouyante,’ a fusion of Zouk and Cadasse rhythms, remains a national favorite. In an interview with St. Lucia Times, Sinaise expressed his pride in his roots and his commitment to preserving Kwéyòl culture. He emphasized the importance of teaching Kwéyòl in schools and making resources like dictionaries more accessible. Sinaise, who is currently working on a new album, plans to continue spreading Kwéyòl culture through his music, even as he considers stepping back from the Kwéyòl Song Competition after this year.
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What we lose when we forget Creole
Rhyesa Joseph, an educator, political scientist, and cultural advocate, emphasizes that Saint Lucian Creole culture extends far beyond the annual Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl celebrations. Her lifelong dedication to cultural preservation stems from her upbringing in Vieux Fort and Mon Repos, where she was immersed in authentic Saint Lucian traditions through storytelling, music, food, and community life. Through her research, Joseph has observed the gradual erosion of these cultural practices, driven by rising individualism, generational disconnects, and economic pressures that keep families apart. In an interview with St. Lucia Times, Joseph reflects on the state of the Creole language, its intrinsic values, and the urgent need for its preservation. Joseph highlights the dual nature of Creole’s current usage. While there have been some advancements, such as limited bilingualism in professional settings, the language’s overall usage has declined. She criticizes the superficial treatment of Creole, often relegated to aesthetic purposes or confined to October celebrations, rather than being integrated into year-round education and awareness. Beyond language, Joseph underscores the importance of traditional values and systems, such as Koudmen, a cooperative assistance model that once defined Saint Lucian communities. These systems fostered collective responsibility and a shared ethic, which are now threatened by societal fragmentation and external influences. Addressing the argument that Creole lacks global marketability, Joseph dismisses it as generational propaganda rooted in colonial prejudices. She explains how colonization sought to strip people of their identity, marginalizing Creole as the language of the “uneducated.” This historical stigma persists, perpetuated by an education system designed for English speakers. To combat this, Joseph advocates for daily practice, learning resources, and institutional support, such as mandating Creole in public programming. She emphasizes that Creole’s value lies not in its utility but in its intrinsic cultural significance. In her closing remarks, Joseph calls for a deeper appreciation of Creole as a carrier of history and identity, urging society to recognize its worth beyond superficial uses.
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Lessons from yesteryear: What the older generation want youth to know
The older generation of Saint Lucia carries with them a wealth of experiences, shaped by both wisdom and regret. In a heartfelt conversation in Castries, three individuals—Kerwyn Gustave, 50; Francillia Clery, 70; and Patrick Duplesis, 84—shared their life lessons and the advice they would give to their younger selves, offering a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of youthful choices. Their stories, marked by time and truth, resonate deeply with the younger generation, urging them to reflect on their own paths. Kerwyn Gustave, now 50, spoke of her early marriage and motherhood, expressing regret for not prioritizing her personal growth and career before settling down. She emphasized the importance of self-discovery and travel, urging young people to build themselves before committing to family life. Patrick Duplesis, at 84, reflected on his shortcomings as a father, acknowledging the pain caused by his harsh disciplinary methods and the lasting estrangement from his children. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the long-term consequences of parenting choices. Francillia Clery, in her seventies, advised young women to slow down and avoid rushing into relationships and experiences that could tarnish their reputations and affect their families. Her candid admission of past mistakes highlights the importance of thoughtful decision-making. These narratives, though tinged with regret, offer invaluable insights for the younger generation, reminding them that time is fleeting and the choices made today can shape their futures in profound ways.
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Anse La Raye/Canaries: A constituency at the crossroads
As Saint Lucia approaches another election cycle, the Anse La Raye/Canaries constituency is set to witness a high-stakes political battle between two prominent figures: Wayne Girard of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and Dominic Fedee of the United Workers Party (UWP). This scenic coastal district, known for its rich cultural heritage and economic challenges, has historically been a swing constituency, making the upcoming contest particularly significant.
Wayne Girard, the incumbent MP and Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and the Youth Economy, is campaigning on a platform of continuity and community investment. During his tenure, Girard has spearheaded key infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of sporting facilities, road redevelopment, and the construction of the West Coast Fire Station. He has also emphasized the importance of tourism development, particularly through initiatives like the Anse La Raye Fish Fry, which has become a hallmark community event. Despite criticisms regarding his limited visibility in the constituency, Girard has defended his record, citing his national responsibilities during a challenging post-pandemic economic period.
On the opposing side, Dominic Fedee, a former tourism minister and UWP representative, is seeking to reclaim his seat by focusing on economic revitalization and tourism-driven growth. Fedee’s campaign highlights his achievements during his tenure as Minister for Tourism, Information, and Broadcasting, including overseeing Saint Lucia’s record-breaking tourism year in 2019. He has long championed community tourism, advocating for greater local involvement in the tourism economy and the decentralization of opportunities. Fedee’s vision includes empowering local entrepreneurs and leveraging tourism to address the constituency’s economic challenges.
Both candidates share similar goals, such as infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and community-based tourism, leaving voters to decide based on trust, past performance, and their ability to deliver tangible results. The outcome of this election will not only shape the future of Anse La Raye/Canaries but also influence the broader political landscape of Saint Lucia.
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Saint Lucia receives automated passport control kiosks from OECS Commission
The soaring costs of regional travel within the Caribbean continue to burden commuters, with high taxes on airline tickets being a primary culprit. These taxes, often exceeding the base airfare, have made intra-Caribbean flights significantly more expensive compared to regions like Europe and Southeast Asia, where lower aviation taxes and government support have fostered the growth of budget airlines. This disparity has created a challenging environment for Caribbean travelers and the tourism industry alike. Locals are increasingly priced out of flying between islands, while tourists face unexpectedly high costs, dampening demand for regional travel. The financial strain is also felt by local airlines, which struggle to compete with subsidized foreign carriers. Among these is LIAT Air, a new entrant in 2024, which faces the dual challenge of distancing itself from its failed predecessor, LIAT 1974, and navigating the heavy tax burden. LIAT Air CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam highlighted these issues during her address at the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2025, emphasizing the need for efficiency and government collaboration to reduce costs. Abdulsalam also revealed LIAT’s ambitious plans to expand connectivity to South America and Africa, underscoring the potential benefits of increased travel volume for local airlines, airports, and tourism-dependent businesses. However, achieving this vision requires a concerted effort from regional governments to address the tax issue and foster a more supportive environment for aviation. Whether the discussions at SOTIC 2025 will lead to actionable steps remains uncertain, but the stakes are high for the Caribbean’s most vital industry.
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Saint Lucian filmmaker Elijah Anatole premieres new short film
Elijah Anatole, a rising filmmaker from Saint Lucia, is poised to unveil his latest short film, *Omyra*, on October 27, marking a significant achievement in his burgeoning career. This 25-minute suspense thriller delves into themes of love, betrayal, and revenge, serving as a precursor to his next major feature film, scheduled for production in 2025. Anatole conceived *Omyra* during a period of creative restlessness while awaiting investor commitments for his upcoming project. ‘I just wanted to keep busy because I hate being idle,’ he shared with *St. Lucia Times*. The film, completed in just a few days on a modest budget, features a dedicated local crew, including young creatives eager to hone their craft. Anatole juggled multiple roles, from cinematography to directing, ensuring the project’s success. The film draws inspiration from biblical parables, designed to keep audiences engaged with its unpredictable twists. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism and local businesses like PorshLyfe, FASHIONBLOC, Rambally’s Funeral Parlour, and Cayman Villas, *Omyra* benefited from donated wardrobe, props, and filming locations. Many cast and crew members volunteered their time, driven by their passion for filmmaking. The premiere at Caribbean Cinemas will be a one-time event, adhering to international film festival regulations. Following the screening, *Omyra* will embark on a global festival circuit, with submissions planned for the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Africa. If not selected for feature expansion, the film will eventually be released on YouTube. Anatole envisions a stronger local film industry through his initiative to connect emerging Saint Lucian creatives with seasoned Hollywood professionals. ‘These experts have worked on major blockbusters, including films by Denzel Washington and Spike Lee,’ he explained. He emphasized the importance of hands-on experience for local talent, aiming to elevate Saint Lucia’s film industry to compete globally. Despite challenges like tight schedules and limited budgets, Anatole praised the dedication of his team. His next project, a six-episode limited series inspired by local folklore, is already in development, with hopes of pitching it to Netflix. ‘We have what it takes to produce top-quality films that can compete with Hollywood,’ he asserted. Tickets for *Omyra*’s premiere are priced at $20, with proceeds supporting film festival entry fees. Anatole hopes the film will inspire a new generation of Saint Lucian filmmakers, declaring, ‘It’s just your mindset that limits you, not your location.’
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Saint Lucian musician Michael Robinson finds his place at New York Fashion Week
Michael Robinson, a celebrated Saint Lucian musician, continues to redefine his artistic journey by venturing into uncharted territories. In September, he achieved a significant milestone by performing at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), one of the most prestigious fashion events globally. This marked his first appearance on such a grand stage, showcasing his versatility beyond music. Dressed in a meticulously crafted ensemble by Japanese designer Shun, Robinson embodied the collection’s minimalist elegance, blending seamlessly into the high-fashion atmosphere. He performed three of his original tracks—’Body Language,’ ‘Honestly,’ and his latest single ‘Muse’—infusing the runway with Caribbean rhythms. The opportunity arose through a collaboration with Saint Lucian photographer Jelani Paul, highlighting the power of authentic connections in advancing his career. Robinson’s NYFW debut was part of a landmark month, as he also attended the Caribbean Music Awards, earning his second nomination for ‘Caribbean Fusion Artist of the Year.’ Reflecting on his achievements, Robinson expressed gratitude for being recognized alongside industry giants like Kalash and Stefflon Don. Looking ahead, he is working on a new project, possibly an EP or album, with international collaborations in the pipeline. Robinson views NYFW as a pivotal moment in his evolving career, emphasizing his desire to explore new creative spaces and connect with diverse industries. He believes music and fashion are intrinsically linked and is eager to participate in more global creative endeavors. For Robinson, NYFW symbolizes growth, versatility, and the expansion of his brand, MR, onto the world stage.