For centuries, the Caribbean was known for its sugarcane fields, banana plantations, and rich agricultural exports. But today, beaches, hotels, and luxury resorts dominate the landscape and the economy. This dramatic shift from agriculture to tourism in Caricom countries wasn’t just an economic change. It reshaped Caribbean societies, fueling a cultural stigma against farming that still lingers today. And now, …

The European Union’s new trade agreement with Mercosur—a bloc including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay—is being heralded as a “historic milestone.” But is it truly a win-win scenario? Here’s a deep dive into what this deal means and the roadblocks it faces. What’s in the Deal? Tariff Reductions: The agreement cuts tariffs on goods like European cars and South American …

Barbados provides a clear framework for establishing and managing non-profit companies, ensuring transparency and accountability while accommodating their unique operational needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key regulations governing non-profit organizations under the Companies Act and Companies Regulations. What is a Non-Profit Company? A non-profit company in Barbados operates without pecuniary gain to its members. Any profits or assets …

Research indicates that setting a retirement age should account for not only life expectancy but also the type of work and the well-being of individuals. Striking a balance between financial sustainability and the humane treatment of workers is paramount. A retirement age of around 65 or 66 aligns better with average life expectancy and provides a buffer for individuals to …

The Bridgetown Initiative, spearheaded by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, presents a groundbreaking proposal to revolutionize climate finance and empower climate-vulnerable countries, particularly small island developing states (SIDS). This article explores the key aspects of the Bridgetown Initiative and its potential to transform the global financial system, offering a comprehensive overview of its objectives and implications. Understanding the Challenges Faced …

Food security is a pressing concern for nations across the globe, especially in the Caribbean region, where many countries heavily rely on food imports. For decades, the concept of “eat what you grow” has been at the forefront of agricultural strategies, promoting self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on imported food. However, Member of Parliament Lisa Hanna’s recent remarks have sparked a …

An aging population can have significant implications for a country’s workforce, healthcare, and social welfare systems. With declining birth rates and increasing life expectancy, many countries are facing this demographic shift. For example, Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world, with more than 28% of its citizens aged 65 or older. This has resulted in a shortage …

Raising the minimum wage is a contentious issue that often divides stakeholders. On the one hand, advocates argue that raising the minimum wage can reduce poverty, increase consumer spending, boost productivity, and promote social justice. On the other hand, opponents claim that raising the minimum wage can increase unemployment, reduce profits, raise prices, and harm small businesses. In addition, another …

A progressive tax rate is a system where the percentage of tax paid increases as the income or wealth of the taxpayer increases, while a regressive tax system is one where the percentage of tax paid decreases as the income or wealth of the taxpayer increases. A progressive tax system is often designed to achieve greater income equality and reduce …

The Barbados government has released a draft population policy that aims to address the country’s declining population growth rate and its consequences, such as a decrease in the workforce and government revenues due to an aging population. The policy outlines three goals: to promote a sufficient population size, to provide opportunities for personal development, and to promote integrated settlement development. …