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aiming to transform the services sector into an export-driven agency, though the National Insurance Scheme is noted as outdated for multi-job workers.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.
New DLP president ‘must reconcile factions, rebuild party’
The Democratic Labour Party’s new president faces pressure to reconcile its factions and rebuild the party, according to the headline and description. The leadership has drawn sharply contrasting asse…
Estwick vows to rebuild DLP as a government-in-waiting
Former cabinet minister Dr David Estwick, the newly elected president of Barbados’ Democratic Labour Party, has pledged to rebuild the party as a “government-in-waiting.” Estwick also promised to shif…
DLP rebuild begins as Walters turns focus to Senate
The Democratic Labour Party has begun rebuilding under new leadership after suffering a 30-0 defeat in Barbados’ February general elections. Senator Ryan Walters, who held an integral leadership role …
Barbados eyes pickleball partnership to take road tennis worldwide
Barbados is looking to partner with the Ultimate Pickleball League in a move aimed at making the island a Caribbean hub for pickleball. The proposed partnership would also seek to expand the internati…
Police destroy $1.4m in cannabis plants in St John
Police destroyed nearly 6,000 cannabis plants valued at more than $1.4 million during an operation in several St John communities on Saturday. The operation was described in a police report. No furthe…
Estwick elected DLP president
Former Cabinet Minister Dr. David Estwick has been elected president of Barbados’ Democratic Labour Party. Estwick is described as a member of the party’s “old guard”, having previously held ministeri…
Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. Trains 130 Stakeholders for Critical Incidents
The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has conducted training for approximately 130 tourism stakeholders, equipping them with essential skills to respond to critical incidents involving visitors. …
Barbadian retailers face rising import costs ahead of school year
Retailers in Bridgetown, Barbados, are grappling with mounting import costs, forcing them to pass on increased expenses to consumers. Escalating charges for freight, customs clearance, and general ope…
Barbados Postal Service to Revitalize Historic Jackie Opel Amphitheatre
The historic Jackie Opel Amphitheatre in Barbados is poised for a significant revival, thanks to an initiative by the Postal Service. Located at the General Post Office complex in Cheapside, the venue…
Estwick: DLP must prepare new generation of leaders after three 30-0 defeats
The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) in Barbados is at a critical juncture as it prepares for a leadership vote this weekend. Delegates will decide the future direction of the party by choosing between f…
University Vice-Chancellor links late academic's treatment to anti-Black racism
Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, has drawn a direct line between the treatment of the late Professor Jason Arday and systemic anti-Black racism. Beck…
Parish Land clinches BFA Division One title in dramatic season finale
Parish Land dramatically seized the Barbados Football Association Division One title on the final night of the season, overturning a points deficit with a stunning performance. The team thrashed Poten…
Barbadian racer Maloney joins Nissan for 2026/27 Formula E season
Barbadian racing talent Zane Maloney is set to compete in the 2026/27 FIA Formula E World Championship with the Nissan team. This significant career move offers Maloney a prime opportunity to challeng…
PEG Farm Cultivates Community, Education, and Agriculture in St. Joseph
PEG Farm, located in Easy Hall, St. Joseph, is cultivating a unique blend of agriculture, education, and community engagement. The initiative is growing into more than just a place for farming; it's b…
Finance Minister unveils $1.2 bil debt swap to tackle NCDs, childhood obesity
Barbados is set to implement a $1.2 billion debt-for-social swap in December, a novel financial maneuver designed to address the nation's escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Finance…
Culture Camp Strengthens Youth Identity in St. George, Says Commissioner
A culture camp in St. George is proving instrumental in helping young people develop a stronger sense of identity and cultural appreciation, according to Youth Commissioner for St. George South, Sarah…
Mottley calls for mental emancipation, spiritual grounding
Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley has called for a profound societal shift, urging citizens towards "mental emancipation" and "spiritual grounding." This call to action suggests a need to break fre…
UWI Scientists Eye Non-Chemical Alternatives to Curb Vector-Borne Diseases
Researchers at the University of the West Indies (UWI) are actively investigating innovative, non-chemical strategies to control vector-borne diseases. This scientific pursuit focuses on developing su…
Barbados Vocational Training Board turns away trainees as demand outstrips capacity
The Barbados Vocational Training Board is grappling with a significant capacity challenge as demand for its skills training programs continues to surge. The institution is currently turning away poten…
Education advocates urge transparency, deeper scrutiny following CXC results
Following the release of the 2026 Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) preliminary results, education advocates in Barbados are pushing for increased transparency and a deeper examination of the proce…
Economist Flags Potential Policyholder Impact After ICBL Investment Diluted
An economist has flagged potential repercussions for policyholders stemming from a dilution of investment in the International Commercial Bank of Lomé (ICBL). The specific nature of this investment di…
Suarez Bros circus relocation linked to water protection - minister
The planned relocation of the Suarez Bros circus has been connected to water protection initiatives, according to a government minister. While the specifics remain limited, the statement suggests that…
CAPE results rise as CSEC Maths improves - CXC
Results for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) have shown a positive trend, with notable improvements registered in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Mathematics …
CXC records more than 35 000 no-shows across CAPE, CSEC exams
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is grappling with a substantial number of student no-shows, with more than 35,000 candidates failing to appear for this year's Caribbean Advanced Proficiency E…
Hollywood Icon Delivers Powerful Message During Barbados Visit
A prominent figure from Hollywood recently visited Barbados, using the occasion to deliver a powerful and impactful message. The visit, which garnered attention, was centered around the delivery of th…
Update: High-Wind Advisory as Tropical Wave nears Barbados
Barbados is experiencing a High-Wind Advisory as a tropical wave brings strong winds to the island. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) have issued the advisory, warning that wind speeds are ex…
Mobile App Development Debuts at WorldSkills Juniors Camp
Mobile app development has officially debuted at the WorldSkills Juniors camp, marking a significant expansion of the program's offerings. This new component is designed to immerse young participants …
Caribbean Could Be Investment Hub, Official Suggests
A government official has put forth the idea that the Caribbean region possesses the potential to develop into a prominent hub for investment. This perspective suggests a strategic focus on leveraging…
Massy explores using its supermarket network to boost Caribbean exports to international markets.
Massy Group, one of the Caribbean's largest supermarket chains, is developing plans to utilize its vast supply and logistics network to enhance export opportunities for regional producers. The initiat…
CTUSAB Demands Equal Treatment for State, Private Employers in Wage Protection Law
The Congress of Trade Unions and Public Employees (CTUSAB) is demanding that the Wage Protection Act be applied equally to both state and private sector employers. The union contends that the current …
‘No one will save us’: Caribbean must be self-reliant for economic survival - professor
The Caribbean must embrace economic self-reliance as global trade fractures, according to Professor Justin Robinson. He cautioned that in the current geopolitical climate, foreign powers may not offer…
Squash stars ready to raise their game
Squash athletes are reportedly gearing up to elevate their performance levels as they approach upcoming tournaments and competitions. The sentiment suggests a period of focused training and strategic …
Experts urge border reform to counter trade fragmentation
Caribbean governments are urged to modernize their border systems and significantly reduce port and travel costs. Experts stress that these actions are vital to shield regional trade and economies fro…
Barbados Tridents give young players chance to ‘Live Like a Pro’
The Barbados Tridents cricket team is launching a new initiative to nurture young talent by offering them a chance to 'Live Like a Pro.' This program is designed to immerse aspiring cricketers in a pr…
NHC Taps Youth to Tackle Construction Skills Gap in Barbados
Barbados faces a critical shortage of skilled construction workers, prompting the National Housing Corporation (NHC) to prioritize youth recruitment and training. General Manager of the NHC, Marcene S…
Merchants fret as ‘the bridge in Bridgetown’ closed to pedestrians
Merchants in Bridgetown are expressing fret and concern over the ongoing closure of a significant local bridge to pedestrians. The bridge, a key thoroughfare in the capital city of Barbados, has been …
Grand Kadooment earns high praise, though some say culture took back seat
This year's Grand Kadooment has been lauded as one of the most seamless and enjoyable editions of the Crop Over festival's signature event in recent memory. Organizers and attendees alike have praised…
Gun offender fined $30K after ‘Botanical Gardens’ claim rejected
A court has ordered a man to pay a $30,000 fine following the rejection of his defense related to the Botanical Gardens. The specifics of the offense that led to the fine remain unclear from the provi…
Top Cop Hails 'Safest Kadooment Day' on Record
Barbados' annual Kadooment Day celebrations concluded with an unprecedented level of safety, according to top police officials. The Royal Barbados Police Force hailed the event as the "safest Kadoomen…
Prescod links low Emancipation Day turnout to lack of historical consciousness
The low turnout for Emancipation Day celebrations in Barbados has been attributed to a concerning lack of historical consciousness among the populace, according to commentator David "Prescod" Elcock. …
Court Allows Key Tenure, Defamation Claims Against AG, Ex-CJ to Proceed
A significant legal development has occurred as a court permits crucial tenure and defamation claims to proceed against the Attorney General and a former Chief Justice. This ruling allows these specif…
Economist warns against complacency as growth slows
An economist has issued a warning against complacency, noting a slowdown in Barbados's economic growth. The statement suggests that while the current economic climate may seem stable, there is a need …
Sir Garry received ‘fitting farewell’, say some, as others believe more could have been done
Opinions are divided regarding the farewell ceremony for Sir Garry, with some asserting that it was appropriate and fitting, while others contend that more should have been done to honor him. This div…
BEC renews push for single Labour Code
The Barbados Employers' Confederation (BEC) is intensifying its efforts to advocate for the establishment of a single Labour Code. This initiative seeks to consolidate the fragmented landscape of exis…
Barbados to establish beneficial ownership register to meet global transparency standards
Barbados is set to implement a beneficial ownership register, a move designed to bring the nation's financial practices in line with international transparency standards. This initiative is a critical…
Atkins: Tennis needs corporate boost
This article snippet is a standard website notice regarding the use of cookies. It indicates that the website, likely Barbados Today, employs cookies to enhance user experience and ensure optimal site…
Blind chess programme aims for world stage
A groundbreaking chess program specifically tailored for visually impaired individuals is currently in development, with ambitions to compete on the world stage. This initiative seeks to break down ba…
Biz community seeks bigger cushion from oil price shocks, inflation ease
Barbados' business community is urging the government to implement more robust measures against the economic fallout from global oil price surges and persistent inflation. Despite recent government ac…
Worrell warns against hoarding foreign currency
Former Central Bank governor Dr. Delisle Worrell has issued a stark warning to Caribbean governments, cautioning that hoarding foreign currency would inflict significant damage on their economies. He …
Barbados Offers Rebates to Poultry Farmers Facing Heat Stress
Barbados is introducing a rebate initiative designed to provide crucial support to poultry farmers grappling with the escalating challenges of heat stress. This measure comes as rising temperatures in…
Salary Deduction Suspension Leaves Barbados Public Officers Struggling for Credit
Public officers in Barbados are facing significant difficulties in obtaining credit, jeopardizing their ability to manage back-to-school expenses. The government's recent temporary suspension of salar…
Teachers, Parents Scrutinize Caribbean Examinations Council Overhaul
Teachers and parents' representatives are closely examining proposed reforms to the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) assessment system. This scrutiny is part of an effort to ensure the integrity a…
England clinch third-place finish at World Cup
England has clinched third place in the World Cup, marking a successful conclusion to their tournament campaign. The website's operational details regarding cookie usage and privacy policies are outli…
Sir Garfield Sobers Hailed as National Hero and World's Greatest Cricketer
Sir Garfield Sobers, a towering figure in cricket, has been honored with a tribute by the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), which lauded him as the "world's greatest cricketer." The party's president, St…
Police mark first UWI-accredited crime scene training course
The Royal Barbados Police Force has achieved a significant milestone with its new crime scene training course receiving accreditation from the University of the West Indies (UWI). This development mar…
Rihanna's Tribute: 'Barbados Loves You Eternally,' Singer Tells Cricket Legend Sir Garry Sobers
Barbadian superstar Rihanna has penned a heartfelt tribute to cricket legend Sir Garry Sobers, expressing eternal love and admiration for the icon. The singer, who hails from the island nation, shared…
CXC to Replace Coursework with Invigilated Exams Amid AI Concerns
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is set to implement a significant overhaul of its examination system, phasing out traditional School-Based Assessments (SBAs) for most subjects by 2028. In the…
Deitz praises WI Women’s series sweep
The West Indies Women's cricket team has secured a commanding series sweep against Pakistan, marking a significant achievement for the squad. Captain Hayley Matthews expressed immense pride in her tea…
Deputy PM urges review of overseas medical funding for families
Barbados' Deputy Prime Minister has initiated a call for a comprehensive review of how overseas medical funding is allocated to families. This directive signals a potential shift in the government's a…
Croney eyes CAC Games as crucial test ahead of World Cup qualifiers
National netball captain Damisha Croney anticipates the upcoming Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games will serve as a pivotal benchmark for the Barbados squad. She emphasized the significance of…
Enterprise vendors fear worsening sargassum will threaten livelihoods
Enterprise Beach, known locally as "Miami Beach," is facing a growing threat from sargassum seaweed. The accumulating seaweed is diminishing the beach's attractiveness to visitors, directly impacting …
Govt to target derelict properties tied up in family disputes, revive City
The Barbados government is set to implement a new strategy targeting derelict properties that are caught in complex family disputes. This initiative aims to untangle ownership issues and revitalize ur…
Matthews, Grimmond’s record 258-run opening stand drives nine-wicket victory over Ireland
Matthews and Grimmond delivered a dominant performance, forging a remarkable 258-run opening stand that propelled their team to a commanding nine-wicket victory against Ireland. The exceptional partne…
Codrington Trust Defends $18 Million Reparations Project Amid Community Concerns
The Codrington Trust is actively defending its $18 million reparations project against mounting concerns from residents in College Land, St. John, Barbados. The initiative, designed to provide reparat…
Clean-up drive gathers pace across Barbados
Barbados is stepping up its preparations for the upcoming Grand Kadooment festival and the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, with government crews actively engaged in drain-clearing and roadside …
Uphold ethical labour practices, says BEC amid worker exploitation charges
The Barbados Employers’ Confederation (BEC) has issued a strong call for employers across the island to adhere to national labor laws, particularly in light of recent allegations concerning the exploi…
CARICOM seeks CCJ guidance on secretary general reappointment
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is seeking legal counsel from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) concerning the reappointment of its secretary general. This move suggests a potential ambiguity or …
Barbados Property Market Faces High Demand, Limited Supply Amidst Unlicensed Agent Concerns
Barbados's real estate market is experiencing a surge in both foreign and domestic investment, industry leaders reported on Monday. This growing interest is reshaping the property landscape, driven by…
Caribbean urged to join forces on organ transplants
Caribbean nations are being encouraged to unite in the creation of a collaborative organ transplant program. This regional initiative aims to tackle the persistent shortage of available organs and enh…
Opinion: Modern-Day Slavery in Migrant Labour Markets
This article, titled 'Modern-day slavery in migrant labour markets,' raises a critical issue concerning the exploitation of migrant workers. The title itself suggests a focus on contemporary forms of …
Archer eyes bigger role for creative sector beyond Crop Over
Senator Shane Archer, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Youth and Culture in Barbados, is championing a significant transformation for the nation's creative sect…
Govt moves to modernise apprenticeship training model
The Barbados government is initiating a significant overhaul of its apprenticeship training model, signaling a commitment to modernizing vocational education and skills development across the island n…
Employers, Sporting Bodies Back Immigration Reforms Amid Workforce, Competitiveness Concerns
Key stakeholders in Barbados, including the Employers' Confederation (BEC) and the sporting community, have strongly endorsed proposed reforms to the nation's immigration framework. They describe the …
Advancing Caribbean Teachers’ maths programme completed by 29 Bajans
A significant cohort of 29 Barbadian secondary school teachers has successfully concluded a six-month regional mathematics training program. This intensive initiative was designed to tackle persistent…
Barbados, Guyana Launch Historic Digital ID Card Travel Initiative
Citizens of Barbados and Guyana can now travel between the two nations using their digital national identity cards, marking a significant advancement in regional travel. This historic initiative offic…
Coach Sammy Urges Mental Reset Ahead of Second Test
Barbados cricket coach Sammy is emphasizing the need for a mental reset as the team prepares for the second Test match. Following the conclusion of the first Test, Sammy believes his players must shif…
Summer camps seek volunteers as minister warns of decline in community service
Barbados is facing a potential shortfall in support for its National Summer Camps program, prompting an urgent appeal for volunteers. Youth and Culture Minister Senator Shane Archer has voiced signifi…
$272m pipeline targets infrastructure, technology, growth
Barbados is embarking on an ambitious $272 million project designed to revitalize its agricultural sector and establish it as a cornerstone of national resilience. Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Shantal…
Barbados forms alliance with AU in reparations fight
Barbados has joined forces with the African Union (AU) in its pursuit of reparations for historical injustices. This strategic alliance underscores the island nation's commitment to seeking compensati…
Hilda Skeene graduates urged to dream boldly and persevere
The graduating class of 2026 at Hilda Skeene Primary School has been inspired to pursue their ambitions with courage and determination. During the school's recent graduation ceremony, attendees were u…
New model aims to build fuller student profiles for secondary schools
Barbados is set to implement a new educational model designed to provide a more holistic view of students as they transition from primary to secondary school. This initiative aims to move beyond tradi…
Barbados backs new push for affordable climate finance
Barbados is spearheading a new initiative to enhance access to affordable climate finance, collaborating with the OPEC Fund for International Development. This partnership aims to bolster climate resi…
Government to table deposit insurance legislation for credit unions
The government is set to introduce legislation that will establish a deposit insurance system for credit unions. This initiative is designed to bolster the financial security of members who entrust th…
Central Bank acts to ensure salary payments, safeguard next payrolls
Barbados's Central Bank has intervened to ensure that salary payments can be made, signaling a proactive approach to maintaining financial stability. The bank's actions are specifically designed to sa…
Teachers raise funding concerns over proposed assessment changes
Teachers in Barbados are raising alarms over proposed changes to the national assessment system, fearing a detrimental impact on student learning and their own professional lives. The Ministry of Educ…
PM renews CARICOM reparations call at Accra conference
Prime Minister Mia Mottley has once again championed the Caribbean Community's (CARICOM) demand for reparations for slavery. Speaking at an Accra conference in Ghana, Mottley implored global leaders t…
Walters blasts govt’s lack of financial disclosure, demands answers
Barbados' opposition is demanding transparency from the government, accusing it of deliberately withholding key financial information. Senior opposition figure Senator [Name Redacted] stated that unan…
Rider safety warning over unlicensed ‘pirate’ transport
Officials have issued a stern warning regarding the safety risks associated with unlicensed "pirate" public transport, emphasizing that passengers forfeit their insurance coverage when utilizing such …
Illegal dumping persists despite awareness campaigns, environmentalists say
Illegal dumping remains a persistent environmental issue in Barbados, with advocates expressing frustration that years of awareness campaigns and legislative efforts have failed to curb the practice. …
Record arrivals and ‘Tourism 3.0’ shared at BHTA awards
Barbados celebrated its tourism sector's successes at the recent BHTA awards, recognizing key players and achievements. The event underscored a robust recovery and a forward-looking vision for the isl…
‘Pearly’ app aims to improve access to public services, buses
A new application named 'Pearly' has been developed with the primary goal of improving public access to essential services and bus transportation information. This initiative seeks to simplify the way…
Interbank transfers to pause ahead of Barbados' BIMPay launch
Interbank transfers in Barbados are set to experience a temporary halt as the nation prepares for the launch of its new digital payment platform, BIMPay. This planned interruption is a necessary step …
Plans to upgrade Government Industrial School to juvenile detention centre
A multi-million-dollar plan is in motion to transform the Government Industrial School (GIS) into a state-of-the-art juvenile detention center. This significant investment signals a major overhaul for…
Gun laws to be enforced swiftly under new courts - PM
Prime Minister Mia Mottley has announced that Barbados will move forward with the swift enforcement of new gun laws. This declaration signals a firm commitment by the government to address issues rela…
Sentencing reform debate highlights shift to public health approach to crime
A debate surrounding sentencing reform is currently underway in Barbados, signaling a potential shift in how the nation addresses crime. This evolving discussion appears to be moving towards adopting …
Scientist Warns of Possible Climate Link to Hantavirus Outbreaks | Barbados Today (BB)
A leading biosecurity expert is sounding the alarm over a potential connection between climate change and the spread of hantavirus, a deadly rodent-borne disease. Scientists are actively examining whe…
Barbados youth trail regional peers in green economy awareness
Young people in Barbados are lagging behind their regional counterparts when it comes to understanding the green economy, according to a recent survey. The findings highlight a gap in awareness concer…
Caribbean Nations Urged to Challenge 'Discriminatory' Global Financial System
Caribbean nations are being called upon to confront what they perceive as a discriminatory global financial system. This system, they argue, actively impedes their ability to foster development and ac…
‘Sovereign debt’ blasted as imposed burden on small states
The notion of "sovereign debt" has been forcefully rejected by Barbados Agriculture Minister Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight, who described it as an imposed burden on small states. She contends that the moun…
Top climate scientist urges vigilance despite fewer storms forecast
Despite predictions of a less active storm season, the Caribbean's top climate scientist is issuing a stark warning: the region must remain vigilant against a dangerous convergence of climate threats.…
