United Nations in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

The United Nations Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in collaboration with its partners is supporting implementation of the sustainable development goals across the 10 countries covered by our multi-country office (MCO). These 17 Global Goals are a roadmap to address the most pressing challenges facing Caribbean citizens and persons all over the world, to create a sustainable future for all. Kindly note that the data visualizations show an aggregate of the Caribbean. To view the disaggregated data per country, please click on the name of the country or territory you wish to explore.

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25 November 2021

UN Launches initiative to tackle Vaccine Hesitancy and increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake

To address this issue, UN Barbados and Eastern Caribbean mission, in collaboration with regional authorities and development partners, have embarked on an initiative to boost uptake, counter misinformation and save lives. An inter-agency proposal that aims to support the Eastern Caribbean countries and Overseas Territories was formally launched by the UN and is being implemented with the support of development partners, primarily USAID and Canada, who have committed financial resources to the endeavour. Addressing the virtual ceremony, UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Didier Trebucq highlighted the importance of vaccination as the pandemic is heavily impacting economies and societies, increasing debt and deepening existing inequalities. Noting that restrictions of movement through border controls, curfews, school closures and lockdown measures have come at a huge cost to the region with countries’ debt to GDP ratios increasing by 21 percentage points between 2019 and 2020, and currently exceeding 100% of national income in some instances. The UN head urged other partners and donors to join the UN in this important undertaking. “Partners and colleagues, the time for developing innovative strategies is now; if Caribbean SIDS are to restore their economies and have a fighting chance to get back on track the 2030 Agenda." The joint proposal brings together six UN Agencies – PAHO/WHO (acting as technical lead agency), UNICEF, UNDP, UN Women, ITU and ILO – who are partnering with regional Governments to address vaccine hesitancy through policy advisory support; behavioural change strategies to complement ongoing communication and advocacy; addressing vaccine motivation; and strengthening vaccine rollout. PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Yitades Gebre, painted a picture of lagging vaccine rates in recent months that has resulted in more than 62,000 COVID-19 doses being discarded due to expiration dates. He called for a more holistic approach to combatting misinformation perpetuated via social media and online forums. “In August 14,000 vaccines were unused, In September 38,200 doses were also wasted and in October 9,600, which is a rough estimate. There is both vaccine hesitancy and open vial wastage.” Dr. Gebre also revealed plans by the UN to strengthen vaccine delivery to minimize hesitancy, with a global coverage target of 70% by June 2022, with interim targets of 10% and 40% by September and December 2021 respectively. Health Ministers from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda were also present to support the initiative, while giving first-hand reports of the COVID-19 situation in their countries. Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the Hon. St. Clair Prince, told the forum his Government had been navigating the impact of multiple crises - Dengue, COVID-19, and the eruption of La Soufriere volcano. Reporting evidence of vaccine effectiveness in reducing transmission, illness, and death, he strongly signaled his Government’s commitment to working to combat vaccine hesitancy. “Our commitment is to continue to work on these key areas - research and policy, behavioural change strategies, risk communications and advocacy, vaccine rollout, vaccine monitoring and of course continuing to work with the UN and our partners to get vaccine hesitancy down in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.” Minister of Health and Social Security, the Hon. Nikolas Steele, noted that at the start of the pandemic in early 2020 Grenada had a 98.5 percent vaccination rate on all of the other WHO approved and prescribed vaccines. He emphasized that what had changed was the messaging surrounding COVID, the public debates on vaccines and most definitely the rise of conspiracy theories. “But I think the most important aspect that we did underestimate was the power of social media and the fact that we have no control over it." Minister Steele also referenced the fact that unvaccinated persons were demonstrating and encouraging others not to be vaccinated, and persons who traditionally complied were becoming weary of the sacrifices being made to help those who chose not to. He underlined the need for maintaining balance. "As we move forward we need to find that ideal balance between carrot and stick to deal with the vaccination issue. There have been different reactions from the public, and time will tell which combination was the most effective. In Grenada , we choose to use more of education and less of legislation, and use legislation based on the risk levels of certain sectors, but there is no rule book.” Minister Steele also underscored the need to ensure supply frequency and reliability of vaccines , that the vaccine debate to be restricted to only COVID-19 vaccines, and for the region to maintain vaccine certificate integrity. The Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment of Antigua and Barbuda, told the forum that Antigua had always felt it important to maintain the delicate balance between protection of lives and livelihoods, which had not been an easy. He further admitted that enough may not have been done to educate the public on their personal role in public health, and the fact that this responsibility did not solely rest with clinicians. “We have paid a high cost for our failure to really invest sufficiently in preventing the morbidities in our populations and allow the coronavirus to thrive. Recently there were 99 deaths at our hospital and 95 persons were unvaccinated. Yet with this alarming state of affairs with deaths and suffering we still have hesitancy, and this is why I welcome this dialogue and commend the UN and PAHO for facilitating[it]" Minister Joseph emphasized that in Antigua they did not start off with mandates, but these only became necessary when a rapid decline in the economy and an increase in deaths and suffering were witnessed. He reveled that between September 30 when COVID-19 vaccine mandates were announced and November 17, Grenada recorded an uptake in vaccines by 13,000 persons. "We can with the right measures save lives and livelihoods," he concluded. USAID Regional Representative, Mr. Clinton White told the forum that bolstering country readiness, with emphasis on addressing vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, is critical to getting vaccine doses into the people who need them. "As announced at the Global COVID-19 Summit USAID plans to provide an additional $195 million in American Rescue Plan Funds for vaccine readiness and delivery around the world, which builds on the almost $700 million USAID is programming in vaccine readiness and delivery to help countries around the world to strengthen their programmes and enhance equity.” Head of Cooperation, Global Affairs Canada, Ms. Jennifer Heys also reiterated Canada’s commitment to a robust global effort to stop COVID-19 and address its devastating health, socio-economic and security impacts on people around the world. She stressed that the COVID-19 pandemic is a global threat that will only be overcome through coordinated global action. “To date, Canada has mobilized more than $2.5 billion in international assistance in response to the COVID‑19 pandemic globally. Over $1.3 billion in new funds has been committed to date to help ensure access to COVID-19 vaccines, tests and treatments for people around the world.” UN Heads of Agencies from UNICEF, ITU and ILO also provided insight on current approaches to counter vaccine hesitancy. These included more concerted efforts to utilise social media to directly target and educate youth, other target groups and the public, with trusted, sourced, reliable information to counter misinformation and fake news. Minister of Health St. Kitts and Nevis, the Hon. Akilah Byron- Nesbitt, in delivering closing remarks, while providing a country update, noted that unfortunately before the first COVID-19 vaccine could have been granted emergency use authorization, conspiracy theorists had already begun a huge anti-vax campaign with social media providing the platform for these theories to be spread at a pace that made it difficult to counter effectively. She noted that by the time they as health officials were armed with the requisite scientific data they were faced with the daunting task of convincing persons that vaccines in general were safe and effective, before they could even begin the conversation about the COVID-19 vaccines. Yet, they were able to make significant strides. “In St. Kitts and Nevis we have managed to convince 79.4 % of adults in our population (which is 57.1 % of total population) to be vaccinated with at least one dose and 72.9 % of our adult population (which works out to 52% of entire population) with at least a second dose by November 17.This was achieved through a robust community campaign that commenced in February, and without the use of mandates. The vaccine hesitancy proposal is costed at USD$3.1M ($3,182,000), with a funding gap of USD$2.3M ($2,346,388). Read more here:

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27 October 2021

UN House Lit in Blue to Commemorate UN Day

A sunset Lighting ceremony held on Monday October 25, with participation from UN team members as well as officials of the Barbados Ministry of Foreign Affairs, celebrated the UN's 76th anniversary milestone, as well as Barbados’ upcoming 55th anniversary of UN Membership. In addressing the small ceremony, which upheld COVID-19 protocols, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq said the ceremony to officially light up UN House was intended to signal the UN's continued commitment to the region and to the founding principles of the UN Charter. “ Barbados continues to be a strong leader and a forceful advocate for global cooperation and multilateralism, ably lead by Prime Minister Mia Mottley. We welcome this Government’s leadership in CARICOM and are honoured today to also recognize its longstanding and effective partnership with the United Nations," the UN head stated. Unity and solidarity the only way forward In a world characterised by rising inequalities, poverty, a climate emergency of overwhelming proportions, and COVID-19, which continues to adversely impact the socio-economic reality of Caribbean SIDS, the Resident Coordinator made it clear that a different approach was necessary. “It cannot be business as usual. We are all compelled, now more than ever, to be nimbler, more adaptive, and certainly more inclusive in our responses. The need for greater solidarity and reinvigorated efforts towards multilateralism to address these global challenges, are critical," he stated. To this end, Mr. Trebucq affirmed the UN’s commitment to working jointly to deliver greater impact in alignment with national priorities. “Under the UN Reform, we pledge a new approach to delivering as ONE, providing innovative and tailored support to each country. Resilience-building is at the core of our cooperation agenda to ensure that Barbados and all Eastern Caribbean countries, can build back better, greener, and stronger, truly leaving no one behind," he explained. UN hailed for its role in maintaining peace and security In addressing the ceremony, Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Sandra Husbands , recognized the critical role played by the UN in maintaining peace and security around the world in over 70 years. Noting that the UN has become an important forum for its Small and Developing Member States , she added: “It is a forum where we can inform the developed world and partners about the challenges that threaten our development and the prosperity of our people.” Minister Husbands said SIDS were at a moment when challenges were overwhelming for them all including facing the devastating COVID-19 pandemic and a climate crisis that threatened the very existence of many countries. She added that Barbados believed that the UN must respond at such a moment on behalf of its most vulnerable members. “We are at a point the development gains achieved since independence are also at risk and a lack of access to concessional development financing , coupled with inequitable access to vaccines, will make it the more difficult for us to work towards a sustainable, resilient, green recovery post-COVID," she explained. "We welcome Secretary Guterres’ efforts on the behalf of the UN’s smallest, most threatened members, especially SIDS. In his recent visit to Barbados to attend the opening of UNCTAD15 he displayed a deep understanding of the turmoil enveloping the developing world. His initiative ‘Our Common Agenda’ which aims to bridge the many existing divides in our world that limit the advancement of all people, with a particular focus on the youth, is very well received. As the Prime Minister, the Hon. Mia Mottley affirmed at the recent UN General Debate, Barbados will work with him to advance this critical and positive undertaking.” Call for Redoubling of Efforts While providing assurance that the UN would continue to advocate at the highest level for the Sub-region, to accelerate progress towards attaining the SDGs, the Resident Coordinator concluded: “Finally, on this UN day celebration, let us redouble our efforts to not only increase universal access to COVID19 vaccines, but also to reduce vaccine hesitancy. I urge you also to join us, as we step up for climate action, and ensure that the rights and freedoms that underpin the UN Charter, are realised for women and girls, men and boys, and marginalized individuals and groups everywhere. It is our joint responsibility to leave this planet in a better shape for future generations. There is no better time to do it!” Following the formalities guests exited to building to flick the switch to officially “blue” UN House and returned inside for a toast. UN House will remain lit for one week until month-end.

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27 October 2021

UN Resident Coordinator calls for redoubling of efforts to increase universal access to COVID19 vaccines in his UN Day Message

Speaking as the United Nations celebrated the adoption of the UN Charter by its founding members in 1945, the Resident Coordinator urged people everywhere, including youth, to step for climate action and to make their voices heard on matters that will impact their future. Meanwhile, he pledged the UN's continued commitment to the region, and to helping Caribbean countries to build back better, greener, and stronger, truly leaving no one behind. In delivering his message across Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Mr. Trebucq stated: "As we approach COP 26, now only one week away, the UN is demanding a strong commitment from world leaders to increase funding for climate adaptation and to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century. This is a matter of survival for Caribbean SIDS. The UN will continue to advocate at the highest level for the region to access the resources needed to effectively minimize vulnerabilities, reduce debt dependency, and accelerate progress towards attaining the Sustainable Development Goals." He concluded: "Together, we must ensure that we support efforts to not only increase universal access to COVID19 vaccines, but also to reduce vaccine hesitancy. Together, we must step up for climate action, and must ensure that the rights and freedoms that underpin the UN Charter, are realised for women and girls, men and boys, and marginalized individuals and groups everywhere. Together we must commit to leaving this planet in a better shape for future generations. On this UN Day let us agree that we and will do it together!"

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29 October 2021

Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates UN Day

Under the theme: "Partnering for People, Planet", as a show of solidarity, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda today illuminated the southern portion of the building housing the Office of the Prime Minister and the Headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in blue, in observance of the UN's 76th anniversary. The Official building will remain lit for the weekend of Friday October 22 to Sunday October 24. Tree Planting Ceremony to Indicate Government's Commitment to Climate Action To highlight action on climate and as a precursor to COP26, a Tree Planting ceremony was also held on the grounds of the Office of Prime Minister Gaston Browne. Joining the celebration virtually, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq , expressed congratulations to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda ahead of its 40th anniversary of UN membership to be celebrated next month. He also expressed satisfaction that Antigua was in the process of implementing its first Country Implementation Plan, that is intended to provide the country with more integrated support from the UN System. "These last few decades have seen a strong relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and the UN, and through my office we are seeking to deepen our engagement and partnership to better support your needs and priorities in alignment with the 2030 agenda and the SDGs. Today’s Tree Planting Ceremony is timely, with COP 26 being only nine days away. It is important for Governments and citizens alike to step up climate action and address this climate emergency that is just now facing us," Mr. Trebucq stated. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade, the Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, represented the Government and planted the tree with support of the UN's recently appointed Country Coordination Officer, Andrea Andrew. He also briefly addressed the small gathering that included senior Government officers. "The celebration of UN day 2021, provides a platform for the UN membership to strengthen international cooperation for a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. The planting of this tree today, though symbolic, represents Antigua and Barbuda's commitment to taking the necessary action to ensure a safer future for all of our citizens," he explained. Antigua and Barbuda will celebrate its 40th anniversary of UN membership on November 25, under the theme: "Resilience, Reflection and Recovery".

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29 October 2021

Government of Saint Lucia Celebrates UN Day.

On Wednesday, October 27, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia the Hon. Philip J. Pierre and UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq, participated in a Flag Raising Ceremony to observe UN Day, which is celebrated globally on 24 October. The ceremony followed meetings been UN representatives and key Government officials, and marked the first meeting between the UN Team and Prime Minister Pierre, since his assumption of office on 28 July, 2021, following his party's victory in Saint Lucia's General Election. In addressing the ceremony, Mr. Trebucq said the UN had enjoyed a fruitful collaboration with the Government of Saint Lucia, and had recognized the Government's strong focus on putting people first which resonated strongly with the UN’s 2030 Agenda and its efforts to truly leave no one behind. "Adaptive social protection being piloted in Saint Lucia is an example of the UN support that has proven to be a powerful tool to combating inequality and accelerating progress towards the SDGs by reducing people’s vulnerabilities. You have my assurances that we will continue to advocate at the highest level for this region to access needed resources to effectively minimize vulnerabilities; to reduce debt dependency; and to accelerate progress towards the SDGs." Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pierre told the small gathering that St. Lucia became a signatory to the UN Charter on August 28 1979, and on September 1979 became to 152nd UN Member State, when the Saint Lucian flag was hoisted at the entrance of the UN Headquarters in New York. He further noted that as the UN observes 76 years of service to humanity, Saint Lucia celebrates 42 years of membership to the august body, that serves as a leading promoter of world peace, supports dispute settlements, responds to disasters, both natural and man made, and provides development assistance to developing nations. "Saint Lucia has benefitted from the work of many UN Developmental Agencies such as UNICEF, FAO, UNDP and WHO among others. Over the past four decades these agencies have provided millions of dollars of development assistance to Saint Lucia both through direct interventions and multilateral programmes. The most recent significant assistance came through the WHO COVAX facility to secure vaccines for developing countries to combat the COVID -19 pandemic." The Prime Minister asserted that despite its small size, Saint Lucia had contributed significantly in shaping UN decisions on many important international issues. For instance, he revealed that Saint Lucia played an integral part of the CARCOM-led charge on behalf of Small Island Developing States, to secure a deal at the Paris Climate Agreement to cap Global Warming at 1.5 % of pre-industrial levels by the end of the century. Prime Minister Pierre pledged the continued support of the Government and people of Saint Lucia to the United Nations. In observance of UN Day, UN staff resident in Saint Lucia participated in a Panel Discussion entitled "Issues and Answers" to discuss the UN's Role in Response to COVID-19 in Saint Lucia. The panel included UN Country Coordinator, Dr. Lorraine Nicholas, PAHO Country Programme Specialist, Reynold Hewitt, and Lilia Ramjeawan, Coordinator, SDG Fund Joint Programme for Social Protection.

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09 November 2021

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines observes UN Day with two events

The first, a Flag-Raising Ceremony to symbolize solidarity between the Government and the United Nations was held at Government's Administrative Centre. In addressing the event, Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves lauded the work of the United Nations over its 76 years of existence, as well as Saint Vincent's leadership in the global body, serving as the smallest nation to lead the UN Security Council. Speaking more recently of the UN's humanitarian and recovery support in the wake of the eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano, he praised the UN for its role in raising over USD$11 million through its Global Funding appeal, and for its ongoing efforts to deliver AS ONE to meet specific needs of the most vulnerable citizens. When 4,000 families get money every month through Western Union that is the work of the WFP. When 500 vulnerable families are taken care of through psychosocial support that is the work of UNICEF. Also addressing the ceremony moments before the two flags were hoisted by members of the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq lauded the Government's efforts within the global arena, and particularly the role played as a member of the United Nations. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines continues to be an outstanding advocate for global cooperation and multilateralism. We welcome your leadership and look forward to our continued partnership in this regard. Following the Flag Raising Ceremony, the UN RC travelled to the Rabacca Valley in the Red Zone, where he was joined by Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar for a tree planting initiated to reforest areas affected by ashfall. He also toured a site where temporary pre-fab homes were being built to relocate over 60 impacted families. The RC observed that the greenery and clear ocean symbolized hope and was a far cry from the devastation he had witnessed six months ago.

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28 October 2021

Government of St. Kitts and Nevis celebrates UN Day

The event took place on Friday October 22, at the St. Kitts and Nevis National Heroes Park. UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq, who participated remotely, congratulated the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis for its 38 years of UN membership, giving assurance of the UN's continued support. "We are really seeking to deepen our relationship to attain national priorities. This Tree Planting ceremony is very timely with COP26 just days away. It is very importance for Government and citizens alike, to step up for climate action," Mr. Trebucq stated " In delivering the Feature Address, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Aviation, the Honourable Mark Brantley alluded to the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic on Small Island Developing States. Singling out PAHO/WHO for support for vaccine access, made possible through the UN-supported COVAX facility, the Minister observed a moment of silence for the lives lost "to the invisible enemy of COVID." He also praised the UN for its ongoing support. "The United Nations has certainly demonstrated its fortitude in delivering on the main tenets of its Charter...the UN has proven itself to be a champion for the various challenges faced by Small Island Developing States like our own St. Kitts and Nevis , the 17 SDGS with 169 targets signifies the importance the UN attribute sto people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership. These kinds of initiatives aim to leave no one behind." Head of the Multilateral Affairs Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Bjorn Hazel , called the proceedings to order and delivered Opening Remarks .The ceremony also featured an invocation by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kaye Bass, a steel pan rendition of the Natonal Anthem by Mr. Dejohn Francis, and Vote of Thanks by UN Country Coordination Officer, Cosbert Woods. The St. Kitts and Nevis Defense Force presided over the hoisting of the UN Flag.

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05 October 2021

UNCTAD15: World leaders call for COVID-19 vaccine equity, greater action against debt and climate crises

UNCTAD's quadrennial conference, UNCTAD15, opened on 4 October in Bridgetown, Barbados, with calls for vaccine equity and greater solidarity to tackle trade protectionism, debt distress, the climate crisis and other pressing global challenges. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the conference as the “Olympics of trade, development, investment, policy and technology discussions” and reiterated his call to world leaders to tackle “the cascade of crises” facing humanity. He said the COVID-19 pandemic had wreaked havoc across the global economy, disrupting the three powerful economic engines of trade, manufacturing and transportation. Mr. Guterres decried the uneven economic recovery unfolding across the world. “In all, more than eight out of every ten dollars in recovery investment is being spent in developed countries — not in the countries in greatest need,” he said. He warned that the uneven recovery was leaving much of humanity behind. “And until we get serious about vaccine equity, recovery will be stuck at the starting gate,” he said. Four glaring challenges Secretary-General Guterres pointed out four glaring challenges, which if not addressed would make any notion of prosperity for all a distant dream. “Debt distress. Systems starved for investment. Unfair trade. And a climate emergency that leaves small island developing states like Barbados perilously vulnerable,” he said. To tackle the debt crisis, he called for an urgent four-point debt crisis action plan. “We know national budgets are being stretched thin by COVID-19, so we must push for an immediate expansion of liquidity for the countries in greatest need,” he said. Among other measures, Mr. Guterres renewed his call for a comprehensive strategy around reforming the international debt architecture — including debt restructuring or reduction, especially for middle-income countries — to help them avoid deadly cycles of debt waves. For a sustainable and equitable recovery for all, bold investments in education, universal social protection, health care and decent work are needed, Mr. Guterres said. To re-ignite the engines of trade and investment and ensure they benefit the poorest countries, he called for open and fair trade rules, so all countries can compete on a level playing field no matter their position on the development ladder. Mr. Guterres underscored the need to build a global green economy, saying small island developing states (SIDS) like Barbados are looking to the future with worry in the face of the climate crisis. “They hear the words, but do not see the actions behind them,” he said. “We often act as if we have another planet waiting for us.” He urged countries to make bold commitments at the upcoming UN climate summit (COP26) and donors and multilateral development banks to allocate at least 50% of their climate support towards adaptation and resilience. Critical point in history of multilateralism UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan said the world stands at a critical point in the history of multilateralism amid the many challenges facing it. She warned that many developing regions are facing the prospect of another “lost decade”, and the reversal of their hard-won progress in the combat against poverty, inequality, food insecurity and gender inequality due to the pandemic. Ms. Grynspan also raised an alarm over the deeply divergent recovery, with advanced countries growing and vaccinating at rates many times greater than those in the developing world. “The inequalities we are witnessing in the access to vaccines and financial resources are today at the very heart of this divergence,” she said. “Lives and livelihoods that could be saved, are not being saved in wide regions of our world – and that is, indeed, an outrage!” She said advanced countries are already discussing third doses, while least developed countries (LDCs) have only vaccinated 2% of their population. Disparities in access to financial resources Access to financial resources tells a similar story of inequality, Ms. Grynspan said. “Advanced countries have just produced the largest and most heterodox expansion ever seen in fiscal and monetary policies,” she said. Developing countries, on the other hand, dealing with large and differentiated debt burdens, as well as very limited fiscal margins, had spent only a fraction of what is needed to respond adequately to the multiple demands of this health, socioeconomic and climate crisis. Ms. Grynspan welcomed the recent issuance of $650 billion in special drawing rights (SDRs) by the International Monetary Fund, the debt service suspension initiative, as well as the support from key countries to intellectual property rights waivers. However, she pointed that the $650 billion was a tiny fraction of the almost $10 trillion that G7 countries (which got 40% of the SDR allocation) had spent on their own recoveries, while LDCs, with 100 million more people living in them, received only 2.3% of the total. When will we pay attention? Ms. Grynspan referred to a speech by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados at this year’s UN General Assembly, in which she wondered how much more sea levels must rise in small island developing states before they receive more climate financing and before we finally understand that unequal and unsustainable development is not development at all. When will the world realize “that the pre-pandemic ‘old normal’ was only a mirage of progress, the enjoyment of the present at the expense of the future,” she asked. “Our countries, our societies, demand from us concrete measures, for a more prosperous and less fragile world; to achieve that, we need to work on a more inclusive multilateral system,” Ms. Grynspan said. Voice needed more than ever Prime Minister Mottley underlined UNCTAD’s critical role in championing the interests of the most vulnerable countries as they chart a new path to recovery from COVID-19. “This organization [UNCTAD] was formed to give voice and protection to developing nations. If ever there was a time for that voice to be heard on issues of trade and development, it is now,” she said. She criticized the international community for not doing much in dealing with the climate crisis, which poses an existential threat to island nations, and debt, which undermines the ability of SIDS to sustain their economies. “It's immoral and unjust in the extreme for someone to cause our societies to face an existential crisis and expect us to pay on our own,” Ms. Mottley said. She said international support to SIDS such as Barbados should consider their inherent vulnerability and avoid using irrelevant criteria in the face of their current vulnerabilities and challenges. Prime Minister Mottley expressed hope that the “Bridgetown Covenant” from UNCTAD15 would provide a framework for moving from actions to concrete results in tackling these challenges. “We do not wish our names to be associated with failure,” Prime Minister Mottley said. “To that extent, our government, our Caribbean community will work assiduously to ensure that the policy initiatives and legislative frameworks that we need at the national level are put in place.” Need for a functional multilateral system Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta urged the global community to come together to work towards a functional multilateral system. “No single government or multilateral agency can address global threats alone,” he said. “We must work together in solidarity if we are to succeed.” President Kenyatta said the implementation of the UNCTAD15 agenda would take place in the context of major global challenges, but the organization’s member states already had the frameworks for tackling them. The conference taking place under the theme “From inequality and vulnerability to prosperity for all” runs until 7 October. It’s the UN’s first major conference on trade and development during the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the Opening Ceremony of UNCTAD 15 https://bit.ly/2ZZxWFK

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04 October 2021

At UN trade meeting in Barbados, Guterres urges ‘quantum leap in support’ for vulnerable nations

addressing the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD15) Conference that opened on Monday in Barbados, the UN Chief unveiled "an urgent four-point debt crisis action plan." Warning that uneven recovery is leaving much of the world behind, Mr. Guterres urged greater support for vulnerable nations as they tackle the challenges of debt distress, lack of investment, unfair trade and the climate emergency. While highlighting the urgent need for vaccine equity now, it is but “the first step in a much longer race”, he said, as the pandemic is putting decades of development progress at risk. Level the playing field “We need to turn this around with a bold, sustainable and inclusive global recovery,” Mr. Guterres told the latest ministerial conference of the UN trade and development agency, UNCTAD. “One that benefits the many, rather than the few. One that delivers hope to people — and healing to our planet. And one that levels the playing field for all countries as they support their people during this extraordinary moment in history.” Countries cannot build back from the pandemic if they are held down by debt, which the UN chief described as “a dagger through the heart of global recovery.” While welcoming the recent issuance of $650 billion in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), a type of foreign reserve asset created by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), he appealed for “a quantum leap in support.” Action against debt His four-point debt action plan calls for re-allocating unused SDRs to vulnerable countries, including middle-income nations, and for the G20 wealthy economies to extend their debt suspension initiative, established in May 2020, through next year. The Secretary-General also reiterated his call to reform “the international debt architecture”, particularly for middle-income countries, to examine innovative measures such as debt swaps, buybacks and exchanges. “Fourth and finally, we need private finance to help fill the gap,” he said. “It is deeply unfair that rich countries can borrow cheaply and spend their way to recovery, while low and middle-income countries struggle to keep their economies afloat.” ‘People above profits’ With the pandemic putting development at risk, the Secretary-General emphasized that countries must be supported in making “bold investments” in education, social protection, health care and decent work. “We need to put people above profits, including through fair tax burdens, and ending tax evasion, money laundering, and illicit financial flows,” he said, speaking in French. In this regard, the G20, the UN and international financial institutions should work with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to push forward in implementing a global framework for corporate taxation so that “taxes benefit people in places where economic activity actually happens. In communities - not distant boardrooms.” Support fair trade The world’s poorest countries should also benefit from trade and investment, both of which have been derailed by the pandemic. “We need open and fair trade rules, so all countries can compete on a level playing field no matter their position on the development ladder,” said Mr. Guterres. “And we also need to help developing countries modernize their infrastructure and trade flows - reducing costs and increasing efficiencies.” These measures are vital to support countries as they transition to “green” economies, grounded in renewable energy, which also entails modernizing the transport sector, particularly the vital global shipping industry, responsible for some 80 per cent of trade. Climate finance promise Building a global green economy is the fourth challenge the international community faces, as countries strive to minimize global temperature rise, in line with the Paris Agreement on climate change. The UN chief again pressed for commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century through measures such as phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels, Richer countries were also reminded of their decade-old promise to provide $100 billion annually in climate finance to support the developing world. “For countries like Barbados on the frontlines of the climate crisis, adapting and building resilience is not a luxury — it is an urgent priority,” the Secretary-General said, underlining the need to fund adaptation. “So, today, I repeat my call to donors and multilateral development banks to allocate at least 50 per cent of their climate support towards adaptation and resilience.” The ‘Olympics’ of trade The UNCTAD ministerial conference, which takes place every four years, is a platform for dialogue on key and emerging issues affecting the global economy. The UN chief described it is “the Olympics of trade, development, investment, policy and technology discussions”, and the discussions there can help the world to both learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating them. “We can make progress to ending the inequalities that hinder sustainable growth and prosperity for all,” he said. “And we can recover better together at this extraordinary moment in history.”

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03 October 2021

UN Secretary General Arrives in Barbados Ahead of Official Launch of UNCTAD-15 Conference

Barbados’ Foreign Minister, Sen. the Hon. Dr. Jerome Walcott , the island’s Ambassador to the UN in Geneva, His Excellency Chad Blackman, and UN Resident Coordinator Didier Trebucq were among officials welcoming the Secretary General and members of his delegation at the Grantley Adams International Airport, ahead of the October 4 official opening of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD15). Also arriving for the UNCTAD-15 meeting were Ms. Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of UNCTAD, Mr. Selwin Hart, Assistant Secretary-General, and Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Climate Action & Ambition for a Green Transition; Ms. Michelle Gyles-McDonnough, Director, Sustainable Development Unit, and other officials from the Executive Office of the Secretary General. Newly appointed CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnette also arrived in the island, and was met by the official welcoming party. The conference, hosted by the Government of Barbados, will be held in a hybrid format with events in Barbados, Geneva and across the world until 7 October under the theme “From inequality and vulnerability to prosperity for all”. On Sunday, the Secretary-General and his delegation are expected to have a full day of engagements, including a youth engagement hosted by the Prime Minister, and an escorted Island Tour with stops at climate impacted areas affected by erosion and land slippage, as well as a visit to a community with houses impacted by the passage of Hurricane Elsa. The UN Team is also expected to visit UN House later in the afternoon , where they will meet colleagues from the UN Sub-regional Team. The UNCTAD-15 Conference officially gets underway on Monday October 4 at 9:00 a.m. with Opening Remarks by H.E. Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya, who will be participating virtually. He will be followed by host the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados who will deliver remarks. The Secretary-General will be next to address the Conference, and he will be followed by Secretary-General Grynspan. Prime Minister Mottley, in her capacity as UNCTAD-15 President, will continue with procedural issues before concluding the official opening. The Secretary General and Ms. Grynspan are also expected to participate in a World Leaders Summit as well as a Press Conference to be hosted by the Prime Minister.

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Press Release

28 September 2021

UN Secretary-General calls for accelerated action on jobs and social protection to avoid an uneven global recovery and prevent future crises

At least US$982 billion in fiscal stimulus measures is needed to respond to the immediate labour market shocks of the crisis and to support a just transition, as well as US$ 1.2 trillion annually for social protection floors in low- and middle-income countries. No advanced economy has achieved economic and social progress without investing in social protection systems and quality public services that provide people with the necessary support to navigate the vicissitudes of their lives. While the wealth of billionaires increased by over US$ 3.9 trillion between March and December 2020, the impact of the pandemic on the world of work, among other factors, increased the number of extremely poor by between 119 and 224 million people—the first increase in poverty in over 21 years. An estimated 8.8 percent of total working hours - equivalent to the hours worked in one year by 255 million full-time workers - were lost in 2020. This corresponds to a loss of US$3.3 trillion in labour income before government support. Because of the pandemic, there are an estimated 75 million fewer jobs in 2021 than there were before the crisis, and 23 million fewer projected in 2022. The Secretary-General’s brief calls for urgent investments in a job-rich, sustainable and socially inclusive recovery. The public and private sectors should leverage finance to significantly ramp up such investments to get the world back on track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and to address ever increasing risks from climate change and environmental degradation that could jeopardize 1.2 billion jobs—equivalent to 40 percent of the global labour force. A human-centred recovery from the pandemic needs employment and social protection policies to work in tandem, not only to improve people’s living standards, but also to help them navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world of work and the transition towards the goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Accelerating job creation To achieve a job-rich recovery and a just transition to a sustainable and inclusive economy, the Secretary-General is calling for a Global Accelerator for Jobs and Social Protection that would create at least 400 million jobs and extend social protection to 4 billion women, men and children currently without coverage. To achieve this Goal, the Policy Brief entitled “Investing in Jobs and Social Protection for Poverty Eradication and a Sustainable Recovery” recommends several actions: Develop integrated national and inclusive recovery strategies for decent job creation, especially in the care and green sectors, universal social protection, and a just transition, and ensure they are aligned with macro-economic and fiscal policies and underpinned by sound data. Expand investment in Social Protection Floors as a percentage of GDP in national budgets. Design policy measures to extend social protection to workers in the informal economy, and to foster the progressive formalization of enterprises and employment, including in the care economy. Create active labour market policies to help workers upskill and re-skill to keep or change their job, adapt to the green and digital transitions. Develop a sound financial architecture to mobilize investments for decent jobs, social protection, and a just transition, including by channelling SDRs to support national recovery strategies to countries in need. Strengthen collaboration with the private sector to scale-up investments in strategic sectors to promote entrepreneurship, effectively reaching women and women-owned enterprises in particular, to close the skills gap Align strategies with the Paris Climate Accords, so that they support enterprises and workers, while also ensuring that vulnerable populations are not left behind in the transition to net-zero carbon emissions economies. High-level Event on Jobs and Social Protection for Poverty Eradication The UN Secretary-General will present the brief at a virtual high-level meeting at the UN on 28 September 2021, 09.00 -12.00 ET (15.00-18.00 CEST). The meeting is convened jointly with the ILO. Leaders from countries, along with the heads of major international organizations, multilateral banks and finance institutions, civil society, private sector and academia will discuss pathways The High-Level Meeting on Jobs and Social Protection for Poverty Eradication will feature the UN Secretary-General delivering opening remarks, followed by Jamaican Prime Minister Mr. Andrew Holness as co-convener of the Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond Initiative (FfDI), and Mr. Guy Ryder, Director-General, International Labour Organization. After, a moderated discussion will take place with Heads of the International Financial Institutions, Heads of States and Government and international organizations. The Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed will provide closing remarks. The meeting is being organized under the aegis of the Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond Initiative (FfDI) with the support of ILO. For further information, please contact: United Nations: Dan Shepard, email: shepard@un.org, tel: +1 646 675 3286 International Labour Organization: Amber Barth, email: barth@ilo.org, tel: +1 212 697 0150

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Press Release

13 August 2021

UN Women and UNESCO partner on a black women, men and youth social justice and development programme

The announcement of this initiative came as part of activities to launch UN Women’s new Global Black Women Programme where Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi moderated a panel discussion of black women creatives, entitled ‘“Ain’t I a Woman”: Black Women, Creativity and Development”. It was sponsored by UN Women MCO-Caribbean, in collaboration with NYU Africa House, UNESCO, and the EU-funded UNESCO-Transcultura Programme. Representative UN Women MCO Caribbean Tonni Brodber explained the goal of the new project: “We will contribute to enhancing the economic empowerment and resilience of women-and youth owned cultural and creative MSMEs through strengthened networks and opportunities for employability and entrepreneurship in Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa; through strengthened digital transformation, financial management and basic and advanced digital technologies skills for women in the cultural and creative industries (including art, design, music, film, beauty) with particular focus on marginalized and economically disempowered groups.” “At UN Women and UNESCO, we felt the need to be even more intentional and imaginative about our work to recognise and promote justice and development. We developed a project with the goal being, that Afro-descendent and ethnic minority women, men and youth are empowered through greater voice and agency, and resilient livelihoods to live free from violence and discrimination,” Ms. Brodber added. Director and Representative of the UNESCO Cluster Office for the Caribbean, Ms. Saadia Sanchez-Vegas said: “This partnership programme harnesses the potential of culture and creativity to empower youth, women and men to transcend borders and build communities across the Caribbean, the African Continent and the entire African diaspora.” Panellist, South African Carol Bouwer, Founder of Mbokodo Awards for Women in the Arts stressed that the world has not yet begun to understand that black women are a larger part of society whose creativity should be seen as creativity within the broader conversation of art, heritage and culture. “Historically, we do not look at the intersection between art and the environment, the economy, society and the cultural diversity that carries communities together… Black people in particular, not just black women, we constantly have to apologise each time we come into spaces where we choose to talk about building each other. I am hoping that this healing space, this space of beauty and vibrant art will remind us that we have to be seen, we have to be able to celebrate ourselves and we have to be able to say to the world acknowledge me”. Sierre Leone and Canadian filmmaker, Ngardy Conteh said there is a huge gap in opportunities for black women to thrive: “We don’t want to just to survive, we want to thrive. We have the creativity, and our creativity can only blossom when we have the space and the resources to do so. There needs to be an increase in opportunities. UN Women also hosted a global art exhibition and online auction in New York City, featuring 25 women artists of African descent. Fifty percent of the proceeds will go to the artists, while the other fifty percent will support implementation of the UN Women’s Afro-descendant Women’s Programme. About UN Women UN Women is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. A global champion for women and girls, UN Women was established to accelerate progress on meeting their needs worldwide. About UNESCO UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It seeks to build peace through international cooperation and inter-cultural dialogue through programmes in Education, the Sciences and Culture.

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Press Release

24 August 2021

PAHO Director appeals to Caribbean people to get vaccinated, observe protective measures

Speaking at her weekly media briefing, Dr. Etienne, who is from Dominica, said, "I am truly very concerned about what is happening in the Caribbean” with people reluctant to get vaccines and relaxing their adherence to public health measures. “So please, please, please take your vaccines and please wear your masks properly, social distance. I know the Caribbean people like to be close, and we like fetes, and we like to congregate, but please avoid congregation. Observe respiratory etiquette and wash your hands frequently.” She noted that small islands in the Caribbean have limited bed capacity in intensive care units, along with limited numbers of specialized doctors. “Our health systems will become overwhelmed very quickly,” she said. In the English-speaking Caribbean, more than 1,315,197 COVID-19 cases and more than 16,136 deaths have been reported since the beginning of the pandemic. Cases are rising in Jamaica, Martinique, the Bahamas, and Dominica. “Over the past month, infections increased 30-fold in Martinique and there has been a significant spike in hospitalizations,” Dr. Etienne said in her briefing. To date, over 1.1 million people in the Caribbean, comprising about 15% of the population have been fully vaccinated, according to PAHO figures. This does not include Haiti, which recently began its vaccination effort. “What we are seeing now is persons totally relaxing on the public health measures and a high level of vaccine hesitancy," Dr. Etienne said. "Even when vaccines are available, persons are not coming forward. We are seeing vaccine hesitancy in healthcare workers.” "I don’t know the sources of the information that is triggering this level of vaccine hesitancy. I can tell you that they are not scientifically proven, and I want to appeal to you to listen to the sources where you have truthful, scientifically based information and evidence," she added. She reassured Caribbean citizens that the vaccines work, particularly those that received emergency use listing (EUL) from WHO. The proof, she said, "is that of the people that are now hospitalized, in severe illness and death, more than 95% of those have not been vaccinated.” "To be protected, you need to receive the full regimen," she continued. "If it is two doses, you need to receive the full doses. One dose does not protect you. And please, the best vaccine for anyone is the one available to you. So, please make use of available vaccines." She said not getting a COVID-19 vaccine is “foolhardy” because the vaccines are safe and protect against severe illness and death.

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Press Release

24 August 2021

PAHO will begin procuring COVID-19 vaccines to expand access in Latin America and the Caribbean

Taking action to expand access to the COVID-19 vaccines, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will use its Revolving Fund to help countries in Latin America and the Caribbean procure enough vaccines to control transmission, PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne said. “The region is still short of the doses needed to turn the tide of the pandemic,” she told reporters at a media briefing. “We need a significant influx of vaccines and a more equitable process for distributing them. With this in mind, PAHO is offering our Member States a new opportunity to access COVID-19 vaccines.” PAHO’s Revolving Fund will go “beyond the 20 percent COVAX offers,” Dr. Etienne explained, referring to COVAX’s commitment to procure vaccines for 20% of the region’s population—the most at-risk groups. The Revolving Fund, which has procured other vaccines for the region at low prices for 42 years, is already receiving requests from countries for COVID-19 vaccines for the last three months of 2021 and for 2022, Dr. Etienne said. “So far, more than 20 countries have formally expressed interest and the number is growing by the day.” Up until now, the Revolving Fund has served as one of the COVAX purchasing mechanisms and worked directly with countries requesting support to deliver donations through bilateral agreements. It has deployed over 20 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Latin American and Caribbean countries procured through COVAX. "Our region needs to pursue all possible avenues to expedite access and ensure countries reach their vaccination goals. We still need more donations; and we still need COVAX to deliver on its original commitment. We also need to create new opportunities that meet the diverse needs of our Member States, and that increase the supply of vaccines to the people and communities at greatest risk." - Dr. Carissa F. Etienne The Revolving Fund initiative “will benefit every country in the region, but especially those that lack the resources and negotiating power to secure the doses necessary to protect their people,” she added. Dr. Etienne drew attention to the Revolving Fund’s pivotal role in the history of strong immunization in Latin America and the Caribbean, where countries have enjoyed high rates of vaccine coverage, “regardless of their income or infrastructure.” The Revolving Fund consolidates regional demand so that vaccines can be procured in bulk. It also procures syringes, cold-chain equipment, and other supplies. “For decades, the Revolving Fund has been a catalyst of equity and solidarity and has been responsible for protecting generations of children across Latin America and the Caribbean from vaccine-preventable diseases,” Dr. Etienne said. She addressed the pandemic’s continuing toll on the Americas, where more than 1.3 million COVID-19 cases and more than 19,000 deaths were reported over the past week. Cases and deaths continue to rise in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. In Central America, cases are decreasing in Panama and Costa Rica but increasing in Honduras, Belize, and El Salvador. In the Caribbean, cases are rising in Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Martinique, the Bahamas, and Dominica. “Over the past month, infections increased 30-fold in Martinique and there has been a significant spike in hospitalizations,” Dr. Etienne said. In South America, the news is better, she said. Cases and deaths are declining in the Andean region and Brazil, and across the Southern Cone. This includes substantial decreases in cases in Colombia, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

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Press Release

24 August 2021

FAO spearheads gender mainstreaming to boost the region’s response to climate change in agri-food systems

The seminar attracted nearly 500 participants comprising of government representatives and practitioners from CARICOM member states who are involved in programme and project development and implementation, as well as individuals from the private sector and civil society.

Across the globe we have witnessed the impacts caused by climate change through irregular rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, greater number and intensity of hurricanes and the rise in sea level. The Caribbean, due to its geographical location and the unique issues facing its many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), has experienced significant loss and damage from climate-related disasters. Existing gender gaps, such as unequal access to resources, training and information, contribute to men and women experiencing climate change effects differently. In addition, gender-blind approaches of policies and programmes to address climate change can further exacerbate negative impacts and added burdens, particularly for the most vulnerable women and men. It is therefore critical that personnel involved in designing and implementing programmes and projects understand and identify existing gender gaps, as well as the associated risks and differentiated impacts of climate change on women and men to set in motion more equitable solutions. It is with this background that Global Affairs Canada, CARICOM and FAO recently planned and hosted a gender mainstreaming webinar in the context of the project Cooperation for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Caribbean, which aims to promote climate change adaptation in agri-food systems (crops, livestock, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture) and to build the resilience of rural populations and their livelihoods in the sub-region. This webinar aimed to spur action by sharing projects with strategies that seek equality between men and women through climate-resilient interventions in agri-food systems in the Caribbean. The lessons learnt, tools and best practices in gender mainstreaming approaches from these examples may be adapted and replicated by other countries in the region to expand their individual gender mainstreaming efforts in climate change interventions. Renata Clarke, Sub-Regional Coordinator at FAO, explained that in the Caribbean rural economy, where agriculture is a key contributor to livelihoods, important gender gaps are still prevalent. For example, in Grenada only 22 percent of registered farmers are women, while the share in Jamaica is 30 percent. The gender gap widens in agricultural jobs with the female share ranging from only 6 percent in Belize, to 24.5 percent in Trinidad and Tobago. “Women also face several gender-based inequalities to transition from subsistence farming to commercial agricultural production, such as insufficient access to land, financial capital, technology and market information. FAO is committed to working in the Caribbean region to innovate in agriculture and transform practices to meet climate change challenges in a gender equitable manner”, Clarke stated. Meanwhile, Shaun Baugh, Programme Manager for CARICOM, stressed that climate change and gender mainstreaming are two cross-cutting issues that are prominent in every single initiative undertaken by CARICOM. “It is important that the policies put forward assist in bridging or reducing the gaps that exist between women and men so that the livelihoods of our women are protected and enhanced and not affected by climate change”, said Baugh. Christian DaSilva, Senior Acting Director at the Canada Caribbean Regional Development Program, stated that gender equality and empowerment of women and girls is the best way to eradicate poverty. “Canada is committed to helping build a more prosperous and climate resilient Caribbean community”, DaSilva indicated. The Cooperation for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Caribbean project supports nine countries in the region (Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenadines, and Suriname) in strengthening their institutional capacity around climate resilience and disaster risk management through training and technical assistance and enhanced access to climate finance. Climate-smart digital technologies and gender mainstreaming in the project cycle are a particular project focus. This has resulted in 141 representatives learning how to integrate gender dimensions in the adoption and use of digital technologies, as well as being able to identify climate-smart agriculture digital technologies and tools that can be adopted at country and institutional levels, such as the FAO Gender Toolkit.

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