This week in Barbados
Barbados is actively addressing domestic issues, with plans to reconstitute its Citizen Security Council following a fatal stabbing and rising crime concerns. The government is also focused on economic reform, aiming to transform the services sector into an export-driven agency, though the National Insurance Scheme is noted as outdated for multi-job workers. Meanwhile, an editorial from Barbados Today highlights the need to win public trust regarding a new IMF agreement.
About Barbados
Barbados, a jewel of the Caribbean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a stable democratic government. Its economy thrives on tourism and financial services, fostering a dynamic environment. The nation's robust democratic traditions ensure a free and active press, providing diverse perspectives on local and international affairs.
Visiting Barbados
Media landscape
Barbados enjoys a free press within one of the Caribbean's most stable democracies, leading to a diverse and active media environment. Both traditional print and modern digital platforms provide comprehensive news coverage.
For comprehensive news, consult major English-language outlets, but be aware that Bajan Creole is prevalent in informal discussions and cultural content.
Rihanna's Tribute: 'Barbados Loves You Eternally,' Singer Tells Cricket Legend Sir Garry Sobers
- Barbados is celebrating the legacy of Sir Garry Sobers, a legendary cricketer. - Singer Rihanna expressed her deep admiration and love for Sir Garry. - The tribute highlights Sir Garry's enduring im…
CXC to Replace Coursework with Invigilated Exams Amid AI Concerns
- The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) will replace School-Based Assessments (SBAs) with invigilated exams for most subjects by 2028. - This change is a response to concerns about the impact of ar…
Deitz praises WI Women’s series sweep
- The West Indies Women's cricket team achieved a series sweep against Pakistan. - Captain Hayley Matthews and coach Robert Haynes lauded the team's performance and the series victory. - The team's st…
Deputy PM urges review of overseas medical funding for families
- Barbados' Deputy Prime Minister has called for a review of overseas medical funding for families. - The call comes amid ongoing discussions about healthcare resource allocation. - Further details on…
Croney eyes CAC Games as crucial test ahead of World Cup qualifiers
- National netball captain Damisha Croney views the upcoming Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games as a critical test for the Barbados squad. - She believes the games in the Dominican Republic wi…
Landmark transplant bill moves forward in Barbados
- Barbados is moving closer to establishing a legal framework for organ donation after death. - The proposed legislation aims to create a system for organ transplantation. - Health Minister Lisa Cummi…
The Jack-of-All-Trades Advantage
- The author argues that being a "jack-of-all-trades" offers a distinct advantage in various aspects of life. - This versatility allows individuals to adapt and thrive in diverse situations. - The pie…
OPINION: The outlook of today’s young workers: self first
- Young workers increasingly prioritize personal needs and goals over traditional employment structures. - This shift is reflected in a declining number of young people joining unions or adhering to c…
Enterprise vendors fear worsening sargassum will threaten livelihoods
- Large amounts of sargassum seaweed are accumulating on Enterprise Beach in Christ Church, Barbados. - The seaweed is reducing the beach's appeal to tourists and threatening the livelihoods of local …
Govt to target derelict properties tied up in family disputes, revive City
- The Barbados government plans to address derelict properties entangled in family disputes. - The initiative aims to revive urban areas by tackling these long-standing property issues. - This measure…
Matthews, Grimmond’s record 258-run opening stand drives nine-wicket victory over Ireland
- Matthews and Grimmond achieved a 258-run opening partnership, driving their team to a nine-wicket victory over Ireland. - The article mentions the use of cookies and a privacy policy, suggesting it …
Codrington Trust Defends $18 Million Reparations Project Amid Community Concerns
- The Codrington Trust is defending a $18 million reparations project in Barbados. - Local residents have raised concerns about the project's implementation. - The project aims to deliver reparative j…
Clean-up drive gathers pace across Barbados
- Government crews are intensifying drain-clearing and roadside clean-up operations across Barbados. - The efforts are part of preparations for the upcoming Grand Kadooment festival and the peak of th…
Uphold ethical labour practices, says BEC amid worker exploitation charges
- The Barbados Employers’ Confederation (BEC) urged employers to follow national labor laws. - This call comes amid allegations of migrant worker exploitation. - The BEC emphasized the importance of e…
PM says free movement uptake modest
- Prime Minister Mia Mottley stated that uptake of the enhanced free movement regime has been modest. - Fewer than 1,000 people have utilized the program since its introduction. - Most individuals who…
CARICOM seeks CCJ guidance on secretary general reappointment
- CARICOM is seeking guidance from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) regarding the reappointment of its secretary general. - The request indicates a need for legal clarity on the process or eligibi…
Scientists probe Saharan dust–sargassum link in Barbados
- Scientists are investigating a potential link between Saharan dust and the growth of sargassum seaweed impacting Barbados. - Researchers at the Barbados Atmospheric Chemistry Observatory are analyzi…
Barbados Property Market Faces High Demand, Limited Supply Amidst Unlicensed Agent Concerns
- Foreign and domestic investment in Barbados's real estate sector is increasing, according to industry leaders. - However, a lack of legislative oversight allows unlicensed agents to operate, posing …
Greaves leads Windies fightback with career-best 180
- Justin Greaves scored a career-best 180 runs, defying Sri Lanka's bowlers for over eight hours. - His resilient innings has likely steered the second Test towards a draw. - The match is heading into…
Baby green monkey sale sparks animal welfare alarm in Barbados
- A listing offering a week-old green monkey for $500 has raised animal welfare concerns in Barbados. - Animal rights campaigners and visitors have sharply criticized the sale of infant primates. - Th…
Caribbean urged to join forces on organ transplants
- Caribbean nations are urged to collaborate on establishing a regional organ transplant program. - Such a program could address the scarcity of organs and improve patient outcomes across the islands.…
Opinion: Modern-Day Slavery in Migrant Labour Markets
- The article discusses the issue of modern-day slavery within migrant labor markets. - It implies that the website uses cookies and asks for user consent regarding privacy policy. - No specific detai…
Archer eyes bigger role for creative sector beyond Crop Over
- Barbados Minister of State Senator Shane Archer advocates for the creative sector to become a year-round economic driver. - Archer aims to expand the sector's influence beyond the annual Crop Over f…
EDITORIAL: Modern-Day Slavery in Migrant Labour Markets
- The editorial discusses the issue of modern-day slavery within migrant labor markets. - It highlights the global significance of discussions surrounding migrant labor. - The piece argues that migran…
Govt moves to modernise apprenticeship training model
- The Barbados government is taking steps to modernize the country's apprenticeship training model. - The initiative aims to update the system to meet current industry needs. - Further details on the …
Employers, Sporting Bodies Back Immigration Reforms Amid Workforce, Competitiveness Concerns
- Barbados Employers' Confederation and the sporting community support proposed immigration reforms. - They view the changes as a significant opportunity to address workforce and competitiveness issue…
Advancing Caribbean Teachers’ maths programme completed by 29 Bajans
- Twenty-nine Barbadian teachers have completed a six-month regional mathematics training program. - The program aimed to address weaknesses in mathematics education and improve teaching practices acr…
Barbados, Guyana Launch Historic Digital ID Card Travel Initiative
- Barbados and Guyana have launched a new travel initiative allowing citizens to use digital national ID cards. - This marks a historic step in regional travel facilitation. - The initiative aims to s…
Barbados NHC Cites $20 Million in Arrears as Barrier to Housing Maintenance
- The National Housing Corporation (NHC) in Barbados faces challenges in maintaining estates due to significant arrears in rent and other charges. - Over $20 million in unpaid amounts are hindering th…
Coach Sammy Urges Mental Reset Ahead of Second Test
- Barbados cricket coach Sammy is calling for a mental reset among his players before the second Test match. - The team needs to refocus and address their performance after the first Test. - Specific …
Alleyne School unveils ambitious plans for greener, safer future
- Alleyne School has announced ambitious plans to become a leader in environmental sustainability and safety. - The school aims to be one of Barbados' greenest and safest secondary institutions. - The…
Democratic League of Women hails first female top cop
- The Democratic League of Women praised the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Sonia Boyce as the new Commissioner of Police. - They described her historic promotion as a significant step for women i…
Summer camps seek volunteers as minister warns of decline in community service
- Summer camps in Barbados are seeking volunteers to support their programs. - The Minister of Youth and Culture expressed concern over a decline in community service participation among young people.…
$272m pipeline targets infrastructure, technology, growth
- Barbados is launching a $272 million initiative to boost its agricultural sector. - The plan focuses on infrastructure, technology, and overall growth within agriculture. - The reforms aim to reposi…
Barbados forms alliance with AU in reparations fight
- Barbados has formed an alliance with the African Union to advance its fight for reparations. - The alliance aims to secure compensation for the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism. - Th…
Hilda Skeene graduates urged to dream boldly and persevere
- Graduates of Hilda Skeene Primary School were urged to embrace bold dreams and resilience. - The encouragement came during the school's graduation ceremony for the 2026 class. - Speakers advised the…
New model aims to build fuller student profiles for secondary schools
- Barbados is introducing a new model to create more comprehensive student profiles for secondary school transitions. - This model involves classroom projects and four standardized tests spread throug…
Barbados backs new push for affordable climate finance
- Barbados has partnered with the OPEC Fund for International Development to launch a new initiative for climate finance. - The initiative aims to improve access to affordable financing for climate re…
Joy, Tears, and Hope Fill St. Paul's as Students Embrace Next Chapter
- Students at St. Paul's Primary School in Barbados experienced a mix of joy, tears, and hope on results day. - The school celebrated students' placements as they moved on to their next academic chapt…
Government to table deposit insurance legislation for credit unions
- The government is preparing to introduce legislation for deposit insurance for credit unions. - This move aims to enhance the financial stability and security of credit union members. - The legislat…
Central Bank acts to ensure salary payments, safeguard next payrolls
- The Central Bank is taking action to ensure that salaries can be paid and to safeguard future payrolls. - This intervention aims to maintain financial stability and confidence in the payment system.…
Play with purpose at Maria Holder Nursery School
- Educators at Maria Holder Nursery School in Barbados emphasized that learning activities extended beyond simple fun. - The school organized a purposeful play event on Friday, aiming to foster holist…
Teachers raise funding concerns over proposed assessment changes
- Teachers in Barbados are concerned about proposed changes to the national assessment system. - They fear the changes could negatively impact student learning and teacher workload. - The Ministry of …
PM renews CARICOM reparations call at Accra conference
- Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley reiterated CARICOM's call for reparations for slavery at a conference in Ghana. - Mottley urged global leaders to address the lasting harm caused by slavery, movi…
Walters blasts govt’s lack of financial disclosure, demands answers
- A senior opposition figure in Barbados has accused the government of withholding crucial financial information. - Senator [Name Redacted] demands answers regarding major public projects and spending…
Govt lab named regional superbug watchdog
- Barbados' Best dos Santos Public Health Laboratory is now a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for surveillance of antimicrobial resistance. - This designation enhances the island's capacity to detect an…
Rider safety warning over unlicensed ‘pirate’ transport
- Passengers using unlicensed "pirate" public transport risk losing their insurance coverage, officials warned. - Authorities are urging both commuters and operators to adhere to licensing and insuran…
Illegal dumping persists despite awareness campaigns, environmentalists say
- Environmental advocates report that illegal dumping continues to be a significant problem despite awareness campaigns and stricter laws. - They attribute the persistence of illegal dumping to weak e…
Record arrivals and ‘Tourism 3.0’ shared at BHTA awards
- Barbados hosted the BHTA awards, celebrating achievements in the tourism sector. - The event highlighted "Tourism 3.0" and record arrivals, signaling a strong recovery and future outlook for the ind…
Worker Empowerment
- Politicians and activists frequently use the term 'people's empowerment.' - Trade unionists tend to focus on 'worker empowerment,' emphasizing collective bargaining and workplace rights. - The conce…
BARP urges action against Barbados' 'silent crisis' of elder abuse
- Barbados is facing a growing and largely hidden crisis of elder abuse, with seniors being targeted for financial gain. - The Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) has issued an urgent natio…
How steep World Cup ticket prices affect Caribbean football
- Steep ticket prices for the FIFA World Cup raise concerns about how Caribbean nations can financially benefit from the event. - The high cost of tickets is a significant topic of discussion regardin…
‘Pearly’ app aims to improve access to public services, buses
- The 'Pearly' app is designed to enhance user access to public services and bus information. - The app aims to streamline interactions with government services and public transportation. - Continued …
Interbank transfers to pause ahead of Barbados' BIMPay launch
- Interbank transfers in Barbados will temporarily pause. - The pause is scheduled ahead of the upcoming launch of BIMPay. - The duration and specific timing of the pause were not detailed.
Plans to upgrade Government Industrial School to juvenile detention centre
- Plans are underway to convert the Government Industrial School (GIS) into a modern juvenile detention center. - The conversion is part of a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at upgrading the ins…
Gun laws to be enforced swiftly under new courts - PM
- Barbados is set to swiftly enforce new gun laws, according to the Prime Minister. - The announcement indicates a proactive approach to gun control in the country. - Further details on the implementa…
Queen Elizabeth Hospital launches nationwide newborn screening
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital has launched a nationwide newborn screening program. - The initiative aims to detect serious health conditions in infants shortly after birth. - Early detection is expec…
Sentencing reform debate highlights shift to public health approach to crime
- The article is about a debate on sentencing reform in Barbados. - The reform discussion highlights a shift towards a public health approach to crime. - Further details are not available in the provi…
OPINION: The rights of a displaced worker
- Private sector employers and governments globally are increasingly downsizing operations. - This trend raises concerns about the rights and support systems for displaced workers. - The article argue…
Scientist Warns of Possible Climate Link to Hantavirus Outbreaks | Barbados Today (BB)
- Scientists are investigating a potential link between climate change and hantavirus outbreaks. - A biosecurity expert urges increased vigilance against the deadly rodent-borne disease. - The concern…
West Indies must improve approach against Sri Lanka spin
- West Indies coach Daren Sammy stated the team must improve its batting against Sri Lanka's spin bowlers. - The crucial One-Day International match is scheduled for Saturday in Jamaica. - Sammy emp…
Barbados youth trail regional peers in green economy awareness
- Youth in Barbados trail regional peers in awareness of green economy principles. - The finding comes from a recent survey conducted across several Caribbean nations. - Increased education and engage…
Data-Sharing Gaps Hinder Caribbean Climate Science, CIMH Reports
- A lack of data-sharing across the Caribbean is hindering climate research and weakening decision-making. - The Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) highlights the urgent need for…
Caribbean Nations Urged to Challenge 'Discriminatory' Global Financial System
- Caribbean nations are urged to challenge the existing global financial system, which they argue is discriminatory. - The current system is seen as hindering the development and progress of these isl…
‘Sovereign debt’ blasted as imposed burden on small states
- Agriculture Minister Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight criticized the concept of "sovereign debt" as an imposed burden on small states. - She argued that the region's financial liabilities stem from global e…
Hope eyeing strong performance against Sri Lanka in ODI Series
- The president of the Costa Rican Bar Association, Miguel Maduro, has addressed criticism regarding the low pass rate on the April bar exam. - Maduro defended the exam's difficulty, stating he cannot…
Top climate scientist urges vigilance despite fewer storms forecast
- A leading climate scientist urges continued vigilance in the Caribbean despite forecasts of fewer storms. - The region faces a dangerous combination of drought, delayed rains, extreme heat, and sudd…
QEH Rx: Reforms ‘to cut waits, ease staffing shortages’
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Barbados is implementing reforms aimed at reducing patient waiting times and addressing staffing shortages. - The reforms are part of a broader strategy to improve …
Trump administration to require overseas green card applications
- The Trump administration plans to require foreigners in the U.S. to apply for green cards from abroad. - This policy change aims to alter the immigration process for those seeking permanent residenc…
Barbados to Reconstitute Citizen Security Council Amid Rising Crime
- Barbados is set to reconstitute its Citizen Security Council due to a rise in crime. - The council's reformation aims to address the escalating security concerns across the island. - Further details…
AOPT Snubbed in Emergency Planning Talks, Cries 'No Seats'
- The Barbados Association of Part-time Teachers (AOPT) was reportedly excluded from emergency planning talks. - AOPT President, Adaline Babb, expressed frustration over the lack of representation. - …
Barbados Today Notifies Users of Cookie Policy
- The article is a placeholder indicating that Barbados Today uses cookies and assumes user consent if the site continues to be used. - It also mentions an 'Accept Privacy Policy' button.
Pilot Integrates Honeybee Pollination into Farming
- A pilot has developed an innovative method to integrate honeybee pollination into farming practices. - This integration aims to enhance crop yields and promote sustainable agriculture. - The initiat…
St. Bernard's Records Third Consecutive Win in Primary School Football
- St. Bernard's school secured their third consecutive victory in the NSC/BICO Primary School Football competition. - The team demonstrated strong performance to achieve this winning streak. - The art…
Barbados Plans to Transform Services into Export-Driven Agency
- Barbados is planning to transform its services sector into an export-driven agency. - The goal is to enhance the competitiveness of the services sector on the international market. - Further details…
Belle's stunning goal derails Paradise’s title hopes
- Belle scored a remarkable goal that significantly impacted Paradise's championship aspirations. - The goal effectively ended Paradise's hopes of winning the title this season. - The match outcome ha…
Minister: NIS outdated for multi-job workers
- The Minister of Labour stated that the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) is outdated for individuals holding multiple jobs. - The current system does not adequately cater to the complexities of modern…
Haynesville stabbing leaves one man dead after dispute
- A man has died following a stabbing incident in Haynesville, Barbados. - The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute. - Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.
New Framework Aims to Widen Contributions, Close Coverage Gaps at Barbados Today
- Barbados Today is implementing a new framework aimed at improving its website experience. - The framework seeks to broaden contributions and address coverage gaps. - The publication uses cookies to …
Xi Jinping, Donald Trump Visit Beijing's Temple of Heaven
- Chinese President Xi Jinping and then-US President Donald Trump visited the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. - The visit occurred during a period of significant diplomatic engagement between the two lea…
FAO Official Lauds Barbados' Fishing Industry
- An official from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) praised Barbados' fishing industry. - The official noted the industry's positive state and potential for growth. - The statement was made…
The Human Risk in QEH’s Digital Revolution
- The article is about the digital transformation at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). - It raises concerns about the potential human risks involved in this technological shift. - The website uses c…
Dementia patients find purpose and activity at 'Forget Me Not' cafe
- Kafe Forget Me Not in Petaling Jaya employs individuals with dementia as staff, offering them a chance to be active and engaged. - The initiative by Alzheimer's Disease Foundation Malaysia and Monas…
Bodybuilding legend Albert Beckles passes away at 95
- Barbadian bodybuilding legend Albert Beckles has passed away at the age of 95. - The President of the Barbados Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation paid tribute to his legacy. - Beckles was a promine…
EDITORIAL: Public trust must be won on IMF agreement
- Barbados Today's editorial expresses caution regarding a new IMF agreement, citing past negative experiences. - The publication notes that citizens remember previous IMF arrangements involving layof…
Christ Church Man Admits to Illegal Firearm, Ammunition Possession
- A man from Christ Church has admitted to possessing an illegal firearm and ammunition. - The details of the court case and the specific charges were not provided in the source material. - Further in…
Memorial held for missing fishermen at Oistins
- A memorial service was held for fishermen who went missing. - The service took place at Oistins. - The article does not provide further details on the circumstances of the disappearance or the outco…
AG, ex-CJ seek to strike out judge’s lawsuit
- The Attorney General and former Chief Justice are seeking to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a judge. - The article does not provide details on the nature of the lawsuit or the grounds for dismissal. - F…
Police Probe Pinelands Shooting Incident
- Police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred in Pinelands. - The article does not provide further details about the incident, suspects, or victims. - The website uses cookies and assum…
Universities Must Teach Graduates to Create Jobs - Historian
- A historian suggests that universities should focus on equipping graduates with the skills to create jobs, not just seek employment. - The article implies a need for a shift in educational prioritie…
Nurses Praised for Resilience Amid Mounting Pressures
- Nurses are being recognized for their resilience in the face of increasing work pressures. - The article acknowledges the challenges healthcare professionals are currently navigating. - Continued us…
Three Convicted Killers to Be Resentenced After CCJ Ruling in Barbados
- Three convicted killers in Barbados are to be resentenced following a ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). - The CCJ's decision impacts the legal framework for sentencing in the region. -…
Murder trial adjourned after accused falls ill
- The Barbados Today website uses cookies and assumes user consent if they continue to use the site. - The article mentions a privacy policy is available. - No specific news content is provided beyond…
UN urges deeper regional partnerships to build resilience
- The United Nations is advocating for stronger regional partnerships to enhance resilience. - The article mentions the use of cookies and acceptance of a privacy policy, suggesting it is from a news …
CARPHA Addresses Cruise Ship Hantavirus Concerns
- CARPHA is addressing public concerns regarding a potential hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship. - The organization aims to alleviate fears and provide reassurance to the public. - Further details o…
BEC at 70 inks ‘Barbados Declaration’
- The Barbados Employers' Confederation (BEC) is celebrating its 70th anniversary. - As part of the commemoration, the BEC has signed the 'Barbados Declaration'. - The article implies a focus on the B…
When Good Intentions Do Harm: Why We Must Donate Responsibly
- The article discusses the concept of responsible donation and how good intentions can sometimes lead to negative outcomes. - It emphasizes the importance of considering the impact and effectiveness …
Forum held to address establishment of joint investigation teams
- A forum was held to discuss the establishment of joint investigation teams. - The article does not provide further details on the forum's outcomes or the specific context of the investigation teams.
CARPHA Launches Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week
- The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has launched Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week. - The initiative aims to educate the public about mosquito-borne diseases and prevention methods. - The ca…
Barbados Expands Maritime Powers with New Law
- Barbados is implementing a new law to expand its maritime powers. - The specifics of the law and its implications are not detailed in the provided text. - The website uses cookies and assumes user c…
