The World Must Continue to Support Cuba’s Call for The U.S. Blockade Against The Cuban Nation to End

The U.S. blockade against Cuba is not just an economic measure - it’s a violation of human rights and international law

The U.S. Blockade on Cuba: A Humanitarian Catastrophe Fueled by Geopolitical Arrogance

By Dr. Kevin J Turnquest-Alcena 

“Deo adjuvante, non timendum”

"With God as my helper, I have nothing to fear."

This Latin phrase beautifully encapsulates the unwavering spirit of the Cuban people in the face of the relentless U.S. blockade.  For over six decades, Cuba has endured an economic siege meant to cripple its progress and suppress its people.  Yet, the Cuban people, bolstered by faith and resilience, remain defiant.  The blockade is more than an economic imposition—it is an affront to human dignity.  But with God’s help, as the phrase assures, no challenge is insurmountable.

Another Latin phrase, "In necessariis unitas, in dubiis libertas, in omnibus caritas", meaning “In necessary things, unity; in doubtful things, liberty; in all things, charity,” reminds us that when faced with global crises, unity and empathy are essential.  The blockade against Cuba stands in stark contrast to this principle, as it continues to isolate the country instead of offering solidarity and support.

A Policy of Economic Strangulation

The blockade has turned Cuba into an isolated battlefield where economic deprivation is used as a tool to crush the human spirit.  From March 2023 to February 2024, Cuba suffered over 5.05 billion USD in losses, while the cumulative losses over six decades exceed USD 164 billion.  Losing 14 million dollars per day.  These figures reflect not just monetary deficits but lost opportunities for economic growth, healthcare, and education. 

As the Latin phrase goes, "Aegroto dum anima est, spes est", or “While there’s life, there’s hope.”  Despite these overwhelming numbers, Cuba’s hope lies in the resilience of its people and their unwavering determination to resist.  However, the blockade stifles their potential, prevents access to vital resources, and plunges the nation into deeper economic and social crises.

The Healthcare Crisis: The Human Cost of Sanctions

Perhaps nowhere is the cruelty of the U.S. blockade more evident than in Cuba’s healthcare system.  Once a global leader in providing high-quality, free healthcare for all its citizens, the Cuban health sector has been crippled, not by internal inefficiencies, but by U.S. sanctions that have blocked essential medical supplies and technologies.

 

“Vincit qui patitur,” meaning “He who endures, conquers,” illustrates the enduring struggle of Cuba’s healthcare workers and patients.  They fight on despite the severe limitations imposed on them.  The COVID-19 pandemic exposed this harsh reality even further.  The U.S. blocked Cuba’s access to ventilators, preventing the island from importing life-saving equipment at the height of the pandemic.

This policy has moved beyond economic sanctions to the point of moral bankruptcy.  By denying Cuba critical medical resources, the U.S. blockade transforms Cuba’s once-proud healthcare system into a casualty of geopolitical arrogance, leaving the most vulnerable citizens—children, the elderly, and the sick—without the care they need.

Food Insecurity and Education: Starving a Nation’s Future

In education and agriculture, Cuba is similarly stifled.  The Cuban government reports that due to the embargo, shortages have impacted over 437,000 school uniforms for the 2023-2024 academic year.  Basic educational tools such as textbooks, computers, and school supplies are increasingly scarce.  Agriculture is no better off.  Deprived of fertilizers, pesticides, and modern machinery, Cuban farmers have seen crop yields drop by 40%, which has led to food insecurity, especially among the nation’s most vulnerable.

Here we find relevance in the Latin phrase, "Veritas vos liberabit", or “The truth will set you free.”  The blockade is not merely an economic restriction—it is a violation of human rights.  The truth is that Cuba’s children, farmers, and educators are unjustly caught in the crosshairs of geopolitical gamesmanship.  It is not only the Cuban government that suffers; it is the Cuban people, whose rights to education, food security, and health are being systematically denied.

A Violation of Human Rights and International Law

The U.S. blockade is not just an economic measure—it’s a violation of human rights and international law.  Numerous international bodies, including the United Nations, have condemned the U.S. for its unilateral coercive measures, which disproportionately affect Cuban civilians.

“Fiat iustitia, ruat caelum”—“Let justice be done, though the heavens fall”—should resonate globally in the face of such egregious actions.  The Cuban people are not alone in their call for justice; the international community has, time and again, voted overwhelmingly in favor of ending the blockade.  However, the United States continues to ignore this global outcry, leaving Cuba isolated and under siege.

Biblical history also reminds us of the cycle of suffering and liberation.  Like the Israelites who were freed from Egyptian oppression, Cuba’s time of liberation will come.  Just as God delivered His people from bondage, we must believe that the Cuban people, too, will see an end to their suffering.

 

Lessons from History: Global Empathy and Responsibility

History teaches us that no policy of oppression goes unpunished.  As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, “The future depends on what we do in the present.”  Just as leaders like Nelson Mandela, Voltaire, and Desmond Tutu fought against systems of oppression and inequality, so too must we stand up against this blockade.

The Bible reminds us in Galatians 6:7, “For whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”  The United States must recognize that sowing seeds of deprivation and suffering will only lead to more hostility, division, and unrest.  If we wish to sow peace, prosperity, and goodwill, we must begin with lifting this unjust embargo.

A Way Forward: A Call for Unity

The solution lies in the principle that the world is one family—"Una familia sumus"—“We are one family.”  The Bible teaches that we are all part of one body, and when one part suffers, we all suffer.  Cuba’s struggle is not just theirs alone, but a shared burden for humanity to address.  To lift the blockade is not merely a political decision; it is a moral imperative.

In 1 Corinthians 12:26, we are reminded that “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.”  The world must act in unity, recognizing that the pain of the Cuban people is a call for collective empathy and action.  With over USD 14 million lost in health investments due to the blockade, thousands of Cubans are deprived of life-saving care.  Ending the embargo will not just restore Cuba’s dignity but will reaffirm the global commitment to human rights, justice, and equality.

1. Immediate Removal of Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism List

This designation is arbitrary, politically motivated, and has no basis in reality.  As Secretary of State Antony Blinken himself acknowledged in 2024, Cuba does not sponsor terrorism.  Removing Cuba from this list would not only correct a grave injustice but also facilitate financial transactions and investments necessary for the country's recovery.

2. Lifting the Blockade

The blockade’s repeal is the most direct and necessary step toward justice.  The blockade violates international law, as recognized by numerous U.N. resolutions, and constitutes a form of collective punishment against the Cuban people.  The Biden administration has the executive authority to make substantial changes, as seen in previous administrations, but Congress must ultimately act to end this outdated policy.

3. Humanitarian Cooperation

The pandemic has shown the interconnectedness of global health.  By lifting the blockade, the U.S. could engage with Cuba’s robust biotechnology and medical sectors to foster collaboration that benefits both nations.  Cuba’s COVID-19 vaccines and medical personnel have received international acclaim, and cooperation in this area would bolster global health efforts and restore goodwill between the nations.

4. Re-establishing Trade Relations

Once the blockade is lifted, Cuba could re-enter the global market on fair terms, allowing it to import vital goods at competitive prices and export its world-class medical and agricultural products.  This would stimulate both Cuban and U.S. economies, particularly in sectors like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and tourism.

5. Encouraging Tourism and Cultural Exchange

The normalization of travel and tourism is a significant step toward reconciliation.  Cuba has much to offer, from cultural richness to natural beauty, and a restored flow of U.S. visitors would provide much-needed economic relief.  Furthermore, the lifting of travel restrictions would enable Americans and Cubans to engage in the people-to-people diplomacy that fosters mutual understanding and goodwill.

A Moral Imperative: The Role of Global Civil Society

The global community, particularly civil society organizations, religious groups, and human rights advocates, has a crucial role to play in ending the blockade. The voices calling for justice must grow louder and more unified, especially in nations allied with the U.S. These organizations must continue to pressure governments, share stories of the blockade’s human cost, and push for diplomatic resolutions that reflect humanitarian values.

As citizens of the world, we cannot remain silent in the face of such widespread suffering.  The Cuban people deserve the opportunity to build their future without external hindrance.  To echo the words of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”  Global citizens must remain engaged, advocating tirelessly for the end of this unjust blockade.

Faith and Resilience: A Testament to Endurance

As the Latin phrase "Per aspera ad astra"—*"Through hardships to the stars"—*suggests, the Cuban people have faced incredible adversity, yet continue to reach for the stars.  Despite the blockade’s severe economic, social, and humanitarian impacts, Cuba has developed world-class education, healthcare, and cultural systems.  This resilience, deeply rooted in faith and a strong sense of community, has allowed the Cuban people to endure challenges that would have crushed less determined nations.

In the words of the late South African leader Nelson Mandela, "It is said that no one truly knows a nation until one has been inside its jails."  While the Cuban people are not in physical jails, the blockade has created an economic prison, limiting their access to the world and its opportunities.  Yet, like Mandela, the Cuban people remain hopeful, faithful, and resolute.

 A Future Without Fear

"Deo adjuvante, non timendum"—"With God as my helper, I have nothing to fear."  This powerful statement embodies the spirit of the Cuban people, who despite the hardships imposed upon them, continue to stand firm in their faith and hope for a better tomorrow.

The end of the U.S. blockade would not just be a political victory; it would be a triumph of human dignity, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit.  The Cuban people have shown that, even under the harshest of circumstances, they can innovate, persevere, and thrive.  But they should no longer have to struggle under the weight of such an unjust policy.

The world must continue to support Cuba’s call for the blockade’s end, not only as a matter of economic necessity but as a moral imperative.  Justice demands that the United States acknowledge its mistake and move toward a future of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.

The words of the Cuban poet José Martí ring especially true: "La libertad no es negociable"—"Freedom is not negotiable."  The Cuban people deserve the freedom to live without fear, without restrictions, and without the yoke of an economic blockade that has caused so much unnecessary suffering.  May we all join in the call for justice, remembering that with faith, perseverance, and the support of the global community, no challenge is insurmountable.

The International Call for Solidarity

The international community's overwhelming support for ending the blockade reflects a shared belief in justice and human rights.  Year after year, the United Nations General Assembly has passed near-unanimous resolutions calling for the lifting of the blockade, with only a few nations standing in opposition.  These resolutions represent a collective voice, affirming that the blockade is not only an American-Cuban issue but a global one that affects international law, trade, and humanitarianism.

Organizations like the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77, and many civil society groups across the globe have continued to express their solidarity with Cuba.  Countries in Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Asia have called for the blockade’s end, recognizing the harm it has caused not only to Cuba but also to their own citizens and companies that have faced penalties for engaging with Cuban entities.

Even within the United States, growing numbers of politicians, activists, religious leaders, and businesspeople are advocating for a change in policy.  Recent polls indicate that a significant portion of the American public, including Cuban-Americans, favor normalizing relations with Cuba and lifting the restrictions that have long outlived their Cold War rationale.  The time is ripe for the U.S. government to listen to its people, as well as the global community, and move toward constructive dialogue and cooperation with Cuba.

Economic Justice: A Key to Sustainable Development

Lifting the blockade would open doors to economic opportunities that have been denied to Cuba for decades.  The country’s potential for growth, innovation, and integration into the global economy is vast.  Cuba’s biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, already recognized for their achievements despite the blockade, could expand further with access to international markets and partnerships.  The island’s strategic location in the Caribbean also positions it as a potential hub for tourism, shipping, and trade.

With the blockade lifted, Cuba could attract foreign investment, which would contribute to rebuilding its infrastructure, modernizing its industries, and creating jobs for its people.  It would enable the country to import essential goods at competitive prices and export its products, from medicines to agricultural goods, to the world.  The Cuban economy would flourish, benefiting not only its people but also regional and global markets.

Moreover, U.S. businesses, particularly in sectors like agriculture, technology, and tourism, stand to gain from open trade with Cuba.  American farmers could sell their goods to the Cuban market without the restrictions that have cost them millions in potential revenue.  U.S. companies could invest in Cuban industries, fostering mutual economic growth and innovation.

A Path Forward: Diplomacy Over Division

The path forward lies in diplomacy, not division.  While political differences between the U.S. and Cuba remain, they should not prevent constructive engagement.  Countries with far greater ideological differences have found ways to coexist and collaborate on issues of mutual interest, and Cuba and the U.S. are no exception.

Diplomacy requires respect for sovereignty and an understanding that imposing punitive measures harms both nations.  The U.S. can work with Cuba to address shared challenges, from climate change to public health, while respecting Cuba’s right to chart its own course.  Cuba, for its part, has repeatedly expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation on equal footing, and this openness should be met with reciprocal goodwill from the U.S. government.

The road to lifting the blockade will not be easy, but it is a necessary step toward a more just, peaceful, and prosperous future for both nations.  As global citizens, we must continue to advocate for policies that promote dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual benefit, rather than division and hostility.

Conclusion: Building Bridges, Not Barriers

In closing, the U.S. blockade against Cuba is not just a relic of a bygone era; it is an ongoing injustice that must be rectified.  The economic, social, and humanitarian toll it has taken on the Cuban people is immense, and the moral case for ending the blockade is irrefutable.  Cuba deserves the opportunity to thrive, to engage freely with the world, and to shape its own future without external interference.

"Per aspera ad astra"—through hardships to the stars—remains an apt description of Cuba’s journey.  Despite the blockade’s many challenges, the Cuban people have shown remarkable resilience, creativity, and solidarity.  They have persevered, not out of fear, but out of hope for a better future.

It is time for the United States to honor that hope by ending the blockade, allowing Cuba to flourish as a free and sovereign nation.  It is time for the international community to continue raising its voice in solidarity with Cuba, demanding an end to this unjust policy.  And it is time for all of us, as global citizens, to remember that with faith, perseverance, and a commitment to justice, we can overcome any obstacle.

The world will be watching, and history will judge the actions taken in this critical moment.  Let us all work toward a future where walls of division are torn down, and bridges of cooperation are built, ensuring that the Cuban people, like all people, can live in peace, dignity, and prosperity.

References:

• Cuba’s Report Under United Nations General Assembly Resolution 78/7 Entitled “Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial and Financial Blockade Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba,” July 2024.

• United Nations Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur, "The Negative Impact of Unilateral Coercive Measures on the Enjoyment of Human Rights in Cuba," A/HRC/54/23.

• "United States: Unilateral Designation of States as Sponsors of Terrorism Negatively Impacts Human Rights," United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, 2024.

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Colonial Violence in The Colonies and The Role of Enslaved Women in Resisting The Colonialists Oppression

Critical Examination of Bahamian Hero, "Poor Black Kate" and Comparative Colonial Atrocities:  A Global Perspective on Resistance, Injustice, and Post-Colonial Recognition

The story of The Bahamas Hero, Kate Moss, also known as "Poor Black Kate," offers a profound insight into the realities of colonial violence and the role of enslaved women in resisting oppression.

By Dr Kevin Turnquest-Alcena

Kate's resistance against her brutal treatment in The Bahamas during the early 19th century not only reflects the gendered aspects of colonial punishment but also parallels similar cases of resistance in other colonial territories such as Jamaica, India, and parts of Africa.  As nations work towards recognizing the legacies of their colonial pasts, Kate’s story deserves not only posthumous state recognition in The Bahamas but also broader acknowledgment as part of a global legacy of women who resisted colonial oppression.  In this paper, I will explore the parallels between Kate’s resistance and other instances of colonial violence against women, recommend how Kate's legacy should be honored, and argue for the establishment of a broader movement for women’s empowerment and recognition.

Kate Moss and Colonial Violence Against Women

Kate Moss’ refusal to mend her torn dress, her subsequent punishment, and eventual death serve as a stark reminder of the gendered violence that women, particularly enslaved and colonized women, faced under colonial regimes.  Kate, a domestic slave, used the torn dress as a silent but powerful symbol of her protest against sexual violence, likely perpetrated by someone in her enslaver’s household.  Her refusal to adhere to the expectations of submission and invisibility in the colonial household led to a horrific punishment: repeated whippings, confinement in stocks, and torture with red pepper.  Despite the promise of relief if she complied, Kate’s steadfastness in her resistance speaks to her extraordinary bravery and determination to expose her abuse.

This form of resistance is not unique to Kate but is part of a broader pattern of how women in colonial societies resisted gender-based violence.  As colonial authorities viewed women’s bodies as sites of both control and subjugation, enslaved and colonized women often found themselves punished for asserting their agency or protesting their abuse.  The treatment of women in colonial Jamaica, for instance, was similar.  Enslaved women who resisted their oppression, like those involved in the Baptist War of 1831–1832, were often met with violent retribution from colonial forces.

Parallels in Jamaica, Africa, and India: Gendered Colonial Punishment

Kate Moss’ story mirrors numerous incidents across the British Empire where women suffered under brutal colonial punishment regimes.  In Jamaica, Nanny of the Maroons, another national heroine, led enslaved people in revolt against British forces.  Though not a direct victim of the type of sexual violence that Kate endured, Nanny’s leadership in armed resistance against colonial authorities highlights the intersection of gender and rebellion in colonial contexts (Craton 54).  Both women, through vastly different means, defied the structures of colonial power, challenging the dominance of white male authority in the empire.

Similarly, in Kenya, during the Mau Mau Uprising (1952–1960), Kikuyu women played a significant role in resisting British colonial rule.  Many women were arrested, tortured, and even executed for their involvement in the rebellion.  The colonial authorities' treatment of women in Kenya followed the same brutal patterns seen in other parts of the empire, including sexual violence, physical torture, and psychological intimidation (Elkins 182).  These patterns reflect a global colonial strategy where women’s resistance, especially when linked to national or racial identity, was met with disproportionate and inhumane punishment.

In India, colonial violence against women was also pervasive, as exemplified by events like the Amritsar Massacre of 1919.  While the massacre targeted all Indians, women played a significant role in the independence movement, facing gendered violence from British forces.  British colonial officers, like General Dyer, who orchestrated the massacre, saw the peaceful protests—many of which involved women—as threats to colonial order and responded with excessive violence (Collett 112).  The bodies of colonized women were consistently used as battlegrounds for the assertion of colonial power, and their resistance, like Kate’s - was viewed as doubly threatening because of its intersection with both race and gender.

Post-Colonial Responses to Colonial Brutality and Resistance

The Bahamas’ decision to recognize Kate Moss posthumously as a National Hero is a significant step in addressing the legacy of slavery and colonial violence.  However, Kate’s story deserves further acknowledgment, not just within The Bahamas but also within the broader context of global colonial history.  The brutality she faced and her resistance echoed the experiences of countless women across the colonial world, many of whom have yet to be recognized or honored for their bravery.

Jamaica, for example, has a long tradition of honoring its national heroes, many of whom resisted British colonial rule.  Figures like Nanny of the Maroons, Sam Sharpe, and Paul Bogle are memorialized in Jamaican history books, monuments, and annual celebrations. Similarly, South Africa’s post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) sought to address the legacies of colonial and apartheid-era violence, giving a platform for the victims of these atrocities to be heard (Tutu 134).  Kenya’s Mau Mau veterans also successfully sought reparations from the British government in 2013, marking a significant post-colonial attempt to rectify the wrongs of colonial rule (Anderson 249).

Recommendations: Kate Moss as a Symbol of Bravery and Women’s Empowerment

To fully honor Kate Moss’s legacy, the Bahamian government should consider several initiatives that go beyond the current state recognition:

1. Permanent Memorialization: The establishment of a statue or monument dedicated to Kate Moss in a prominent location, such as Nassau or Crooked Island, would serve as a perpetual reminder of her bravery.  This monument could stand alongside a plaque that details her resistance and the broader context of women’s resistance to colonialism.  This would be similar to the statue of Nanny of the Maroons in Jamaica’s National Heroes Park, which honors her defiance and leadership (Craton 68).

2. Women Empowerment Fund: The government could establish a fund in Kate Moss’s name that supports initiatives aimed at empowering women and girls, particularly those from marginalized communities.  This fund could provide scholarships, mentorship programs, and resources for women who face gender-based violence, much like the foundations established in the names of other national heroes (Patterson 143).  Such a fund would not only memorialize Kate but also help create tangible change for future generations.

3. Medal of Bravery for Women: The Bahamian government could institute an annual "Kate Moss Medal of Bravery," awarded to women who have demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.  This would be similar to the Queen’s Medal for Courage, awarded in various Commonwealth countries.  By doing so, Kate’s story would become a symbol of empowerment, inspiring women across The Bahamas and the world to stand up against injustice.

4. Education Initiatives: To ensure Kate’s legacy is not forgotten, the government could work with educational institutions to include her story in the national curriculum.  Additionally, public lectures, seminars, and exhibitions could be held to educate both Bahamians and international audiences about her significance in the broader context of resistance to colonial rule (Beckles 157).

Conclusion: A Global Legacy of Resistance

Kate Moss’ story, though rooted in the history of The Bahamas, is part of a much larger narrative of colonial resistance.  The gendered violence she faced at the hands of the Moss family, her refusal to submit to oppression, and her eventual martyrdom are echoed in the experiences of women across the British Empire, from Jamaica to Kenya to India.  By recognizing Kate Moss as a National Hero and expanding upon this recognition with tangible initiatives, the Bahamian government can ensure that her legacy serves as both a symbol of bravery and a rallying cry for women’s empowerment.  Furthermore, this broader acknowledgment would align the Bahamas with other post-colonial nations that have taken significant steps to honor their own resistance figures and address the legacies of colonial violence.

Works Cited

Anderson, David. Histories of the Hanged: The Dirty War in Kenya and the End of Empire*. W.W. Norton, 2005.

Beckles, Hilary McD. A History of Barbados: From Amerindian Settlement to Nation-State*. Cambridge University Press, 2006.

Collett, Nigel. The Butcher of Amritsar: General Reginald Dyer*.  Hambledon Continuum, 2006.

Craton, Michael.  Testing the Chains: Resistance to Slavery in the British West Indies*. Cornell University Press, 2009.

Elkins, Caroline.  Imperial Reckoning: The Untold Story of Britain's Gulag in Kenya*. Henry Holt and Co., 2005.

Patterson, Orlando. The Sociology of Slavery: An Analysis of the Origins, Development, and Structure of Negro Slave Society in Jamaica*. Fairleigh Dickinson University Press, 2020.

Tutu, Desmond. No Future Without Forgiveness*. Random House, 1999.

By Dr. Kevin J Turnquest-Alcena 

Chairman of the Board of Governors

Rector, Michael University

LLB (Hon-1st Cl.), LLM (Hon-1st Cl.)

Ph.D. in Economics / Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology- MD/ Ph.D in Biogenetics

Ph.D. in Pharmacy (Pharm D) 

Ph.D. in Public Health / Ph.D. in Herbal and Holistic Medicine

Titular Professor Lawyer & Fellow-FCILEX; AClArb; & Snr. Fellow-AMLA

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See Bahamianology For Further Reading on 'Poor Black Kate' - Kate Moss

Let's Help and Support The Police to Weed-out All of The Corrupt Policemen From The Ranks of The Royal Bahamas Police Force - Bishop Delton Fernander

Say NO to Corrupt Police Officers in The Bahamas!

By Dennis Dames
Nassau, The Bahamas

I wonder if the president of The Bahamas Christian Council (BCC) in his laid-back defense of The Royal Bahamas Police Force in the investigation of one of their senior top Officers - relating to serious alledge crimes - was speaking casually as a Bahamian, a member of the Masonic Lodge family in The Bahamas, or a pastor. He is wearing so many hats these days - and he has now found himself in the line of fire of the Bahamian public that wants the Johnson investigation to be favourably beyond distrust and national contempt.

Bishop Fernander must be a resident of a another planet. He has obviously not been keeping-up with all the scandals of devilish criminal acts coming out of the ranks of the RBPF in recent times. Senior Officers have been recorded in the acts of committing serious crimes - like, assisting in the unloading of dangerous and illicit drugs from the plane of drug traffickers!

Bishop Delton Fernander, ask the Commissioner of Police - Clayton Fernander about the huge amount of Police Officers he had to fire or send home - because of their dirty and outrageous criminal actions! Ask the Commissioner of Police about the number of Officers of the Force who were recently cited by the Coroners Courts for manslaughter! Yes, the Bahamian Police have illegally killed many of our Bahamian brothers like dogs on the streets of The Bahamas in recent times.

Bishop Fernander, do you really think the Commissioner of Police can lead a fair and balanced investigation against his good old buddy, Chief Superintendent Johnson - who he said publicly was the man for the job? Do you actually think that it's only about Chief Superintendent Johnson, and not about the entire Force? It does not seem that you are thinking straight, or dealing with a full deck these days. What a shame!

What kind of salvation the masonic lodge provides you that our Living Lord does not? What is the connection between the Redemption of our Living Messiah and the masonic lodge - which you are a member and brethern of?

Bishop Fernander, why are you under the impression that corruption and criminality on the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) are not endemic there? The streets of The Bahamas know better than that Bishop.

The Police Force in the Bahamian nation is in a distressful crisis, so is the national security of The Bahamas - Bishop! Corruption and criminality is alive and well in the ranks of that organization - in my view.

Policemen in The Bahamas have been found with illegal weapons in recent times - Bishop. Who controls the illegal guns in our nation Bishop?

Policemen are in our jail for raping their underage family members - while still active members of the Force. Policemen are in our prison for all manner of horrible crimes before they were fired from the Force.

Policemen have skiped the country recently to avoid answering for their wicked crimes - bishop. So, you did not convince me and most citizens that the Chief Johnson always acted alone in his alleged crimes while being the chief of the Criminal Detective Unit (CDU) of the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

There is no doubt that the very many of Bahamian Police men and women are honourable and righteous people, but the actively rogue among them are eroding the already frigile integrity of The Royal Bahamas Police Force. All of them must be weeded out in order to restore the public's trust and confidence in The Force.

The good Officers there will rejoice fittingly - if such a noble thing become a joyful reality. Thus Bishop, let's help them celebrate! Let's let it be known as one people - that bossman Johnson investigation must be and appear to be just in the eyes of the Bahamian people. The good future of The Bahamas and its Police Force depend on it.

The Deterioration of Haiti’s Humanitarian Crisis

The indiscriminate violence of armed groups and the near collapse of basic services have plunged Haiti into a humanitarian crisis unprecedented since 2010

There are fears that the epicentre of the current humanitarian crisis will gradually shift to an increasing number of areas previously spared by the insecurity in the Haitian nation

UN Report:

Years of underfunding of humanitarian aid and increasing needs have put millions of Haitians at risk of chronic vulnerability, according to a newly released UN report.

Reversing the situation will require the international community and donors to increase the funding of UN and non-governmental organization (NGO) relief operations, the UN humanitarian office, OCHA, said in its latest advocacy note.

Growing hunger and needs

Months of violence have led to a deterioration of Haiti’s humanitarian crisis.  Displacement has tripled in the last year in Haiti as gang violence continues to rock the Caribbean-island nation, with nearly 600,000 people on the run.

“The indiscriminate violence of armed groups and the near collapse of basic services have plunged Haiti into a humanitarian crisis unprecedented since 2010,” OCHA reported, referring to the devasting earthquake that struck the nation 14 years ago.

Following the spiralling security situation in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and Artibonite in the north in February, the number of displaced persons has soared by 60 per cent, the report showed, using the latest figures from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) data tracking matrix for Haiti.

Collapsing basic services

The violence continues to target civilian infrastructure, with only 24 per cent of hospitals remaining operational, OCHA reported.  The insecurity has also left 1.5 million children shut out of classrooms.

Half of the 578,000 displaced people, desperately fleeing the capital in search of safety, had made their way south, where the vast majority are staying with already economically vulnerable host families.

However, basic social services, such as education, health and water, hygiene and sanitation, already insufficient to meet the needs of the local population, have been severely strained, OCHA reported.

Forced deportations

Meanwhile, forced repatriations of Haitians from countries in the region is continuing.  Indeed, deportations of Haitian nationals even increased, particularly from April onwards, when incidents of violence were at their peak, OCHA reported.  In the first seven months of the year, nearly 100,000 people were deported from countries in the region to Haiti, according to data from IOM.

‘Wave of violence’

The violent clashes between gangs and the authorities have also persisted, even as the multinational security support mission arrived in late June to help Haitian police address the ongoing crisis.

“This wave of violence continues to have humanitarian consequences on the populations of the affected neighbourhoods and localities, but also in areas far from the capital which have become host lands for hundreds of thousands of people,” OCHA stated in the report.

Almost 300,000 malnutrition cases have been documented, and five million people, about 50 per cent of Haiti’s population, face heightened food insecurity, according to a report earlier this year by a global monitoring group, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).

Fears the crisis will spread

There are fears that the epicentre of the current humanitarian crisis will gradually shift to an increasing number of areas previously spared by insecurity, according to OCHA.

At the same time, the current hurricane season is expected to be active and could cause an additional shockwave on the daily lives of Haitians.

Haiti is bracing for between four and seven major storms in the months to come.

Calls to fill funding gaps

Additional financial resources are urgently needed to meet the increased needs of the Haitian population affected by this multidimensional crisis, OCHA said in its report.

Without additional funds, OCHA fears that these crises will continue.

Humanitarian concerns abound that food insecurity will continue to spread, hundreds of thousands of out-of-school children will face the risk of recruitment by armed groups and experience “lost years”, growing up without the skills needed for their future and survival, and that half a million vulnerable children and victims of protection incidents will be deprived of mental health services and psychosocial support, according to OCHA.

“While humanitarian assistance is a lifeline for many, it is only part of the solution,” the UN agency said.

“The government, political and development actors must work together to find lasting solutions to Haiti’s structural challenges,” OCHA said, echoing a call made last month by a joint UN-European Union mission to the country.

Eight months into the year, Haiti’s 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan is 33 per cent funded, having received $162.5 million out of $674 million.

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Bankarization in Cuba

The process of bankarization in Cuba

Banking penetration in Cuba: solution or problem?

With only two months to go before the first anniversary of the beginning of the bankarization process in Cuba, President Díaz-Canel's podcast delved into the main problems and perspectives

Author: Correspondents' Editorial | internet@granma.cu

"With the transparency that we can achieve in bankarization, we will be defending -at the local level- one of the sources of income through taxation for the budgets, with which the growth and economic and social development of each of the territories is boosted".

This was stated by the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and President of the Republic, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, in the eighth episode of his podcast From the Presidency, in which he delved into the particularities that have distinguished the process of bankarization in the country, an issue not exempt from limitations, with multiple potentialities yet to be exploited.

"The population is telling us what needs to be done, is telling us where the dissatisfactions are and is recognizing that we have lacked action", said the Head of State, at the beginning of the space, which was attended by Juana Lilia Delgado Portal and Alberto Quiñones Betancourt, president and vice-president of the Central Bank of Cuba (BCC).

Considered by the President as one of the most important processes of the digital transformation of Cuban society, the bancarization, he said, helps to recompose a whole group of elements that are part of the country's macroeconomic stabilization program, and is associated, among other elements, to the control of the levels of cash in circulation, as well as the relationship between the monetary mass in national currency and in foreign currency.

Although it is possible to speak of progress in the implementation of this mechanism in the island, with barely two months left to go before the first anniversary of its launching, the actions that have been carried out and, in turn, the control exercised over them, continue to be insufficient.

However, even though the greatest impulse to the process coincided with the critical situation of cash availability that existed at that time in the banks, the Cuban President acknowledged that, in the light of these days, and based on the analyses that have been carried out, it is possible to assure "that the situation would have been worse if the bancarization had not been initiated".

BANKARIZATION, WHAT FOR?

Does the bancarization not have a positive balance, is it only to get paid, why so much bancarization, if it is a problem to extract money?  These were some of the questions drawn from the people's opinions, shared by Díaz-Canel.

When discussing the urgency and the need to improve the implementation of the process, Delgado Portal - head of the BCC - emphasized its importance to achieve a more efficient management of money, because "it helps to create a credit history in the case of people who have access to banking products, and who are interested in obtaining credit".

At the same time, he considered, it promotes savings and constitutes an important mechanism to support the development of the economy and reduce the use of cash.

BANKARIZATION AS A SYSTEM

Regarding several of the problems that have arisen during this period -some associated with the implementation itself, and others caused by distortions or deviations from what was proposed- the vice president of the Central Bank of Cuba, Alberto Quiñones Betancourt, acknowledged that "the practical application of some measures showed that not all the conditions for their application were created".

This is a process, he added, for which "not only will is required, but also investments".

Likewise, associated to criteria manifested by the population, he highlighted the differences that exist between transfer and online payment, and how the latter has been being violated in certain commerce to the detriment of the people.  "No commerce can attribute to itself the right not to accept payment by the means that the client decides, and, in addition, to do so taking into account all that is established", he said.

The process of bankarization, he said, started from "the premise of being better than what we had, which has not been achieved, that is, today there is still a dissatisfaction due to the need of people to continue requiring cash to make payments".

Currently, Quiñones considered, there has been progress in digital payments, but not at the level that the country needs: "Today cash is still being used.  Month after month more cash continues to be left out: it is not that cash is not used, but that it has to circulate".

At this point, the President of the Republic intervened, pointing out that bankarization should work as a system: "It makes no sense that, if I have my salary put on a magnetic card, then I have to go to an ATM to withdraw cash to pay for goods and services, when the logical thing is that I can, with that card, make electronic payments".

Sometimes - Díaz-Canel added - the concept of bankarization has been restricted to the use of ATMs, and it is quite the opposite: "as we advance in the process of bankarization, we will require less cash and, therefore, we will go to ATMs less".

That is why, according to Quiñones, the country has called for banking transactions: "It is not only that you have an account, not only that you have access, but also that you have the possibility of using that bank account".

In that sense, he ratified that in some places the gradualness in the application of the measures was not achieved, and certain processes were accelerated, which not only depended on the will to do, but also on a previous financial training and education, which were not always complied with.

IS THERE NO MONEY IN THE CUBAN ECONOMY?

In response to one of the questions of the population, launched by the Head of State, the Minister of the Central Bank of Cuba, Juana Lilia Delgado, argued that it is not about the non-existence of money in the country's economy, but that "there is more money than ever" circulating, but the flow has been reversed.

In other words, there is more money leaving the banking system than is returning, and it is concentrated in a few hands.  This, therefore, alters the whole cycle of the movement of cash, and "it is therefore difficult to cover the demands".

This accumulation of money in few places, according to the investigations, is due to pending payments to the Treasury by some economic actors.

Among other issues addressed during the podcast, the importance of having two payment gateways of its own was highlighted: Transfermóvil and EnZona, which grants sovereignty to the country to carry out the process of bankarization.

Reference was also made to tax evasion and how bankarization can contribute to its control; to the reluctance of economic actors, both state and private, to embrace the process; as well as to the complaints filed by workers in the rural and education sectors on the matter.

In this sense, the President of the Bank assured that "all possible measures and variants are being adopted to try to minimize the effects, especially on the salaried sector and Social Security pensioners".

The Head of State said that, although there is a wide range of actions and areas in this process, it is a premise to prioritize those that will have the greatest impact.  For example, "if 70% of Cubans' income today is spent on food purchases, one of the first things we have to achieve is to ensure that the services provided in the agricultural markets are well banked".

Finally, he insisted on the strategic importance of carrying out the process, for which, he pointed out, an action plan has been designed that "includes severe control actions to correct the existing distortions in the shortest possible time".

Among the most important actions of the macroeconomic stabilization program, he reaffirmed, are the contributions that this process can make.

Bankarization, he stressed, is not the cause of these problems.  The cause lies in the failure to control it adequately.  The solution to these problems lies in banking penetration, concluded the President.

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Gold and Diamond Exchange Opportunity for The Bahamas

The transformative impact of a gold and diamond exchange in The Bahamas 

Opportunity for Gold and Diamond Exchange for The Bahamas

By Dr Kevin Turnquest-Alcena

Nassau, The Bahamas

In the heart of the Caribbean, The Bahamas stands poised to transform its economy through the liberalization of its gem and precious metals sector. The country, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, is on the cusp tapping into a rich vein of economic potential. This article explores the transformative impact that a reimagined gold and diamond exchange could have, creating jobs and ushering in a new era of prosperity.

Andre Rahming, a leading figure in Bahamian gemology Legislation, has been instrumental in charting a possible future for the country's gem and precious metal industries. His advocacy for establishing a precious metal commission to oversee this transformation underscores his commitment to harnessing these untapped resources responsibly and profitably.

Current Landscape: Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles

Despite its independence, The Bahamas grapples with outdated trade policies that curb its economic progress. The stringent government exchange controls, coupled with complex banking requirements such as KYC protocols, impede both local entrepreneurs and international investors. Notably, the country's reliance on archaic systems does little to foster a robust entrepreneurial environment which is critical for economic diversification.

Propelling Forward: The Need for Reform

To realize the full potential of the gem and precious metals sector, The Bahamas must reform its regulatory framework. Abolishing restrictive exchange controls and simplifying the banking process are essential steps toward creating a conducive business environment. By looking at successful models in Botswana, the UK, Israel, the UAE and Belgium, where regulatory reforms have spurred economic growth, The Bahamas can develop a blueprint for success.

Job Creation and Economic Stability

By opening the gold and diamond exchange, we anticipate the creation of over 7,000 jobs, significantly reducing unemployment and increasing the standard of living for many Bahamians. These jobs are not just numbers; they represent skilled positions offering sustainable livelihoods across the archipelago.

Proposed Framework: Establishing a Precious Metal Commission

One critical proposal is the establishment of a Precious Metal Commission, tasked with oversight and strategic development of the gem and precious metals sector. This body would ensure that the industry grows in a controlled, ethical manner that benefits all Bahamians without causing ecological damage or exploiting local communities.

Global Engagement: Enhancing International Relations

Modernizing trade policies will also enhance The Bahamas' international relations, positioning it as a significant player in the global market for gems and precious metals. This shift could attract foreign investment and foster partnerships, further enriching the nation’s economic landscape.

Overview of Current Trade Policies

Presently, The Bahamas maintains a conservative approach towards the trading of gems and precious metals, with stringent regulations rooted in a bygone colonial economy that limit the potential for market expansion and economic diversification.

Purpose and Scope of the Article

This analysis aims to advocate for a more open trade policy in The Bahamas, drawing parallels with global success stories to underline the anticipated economic and social benefits. We will journey through historical, current, and future vistas, identifying challenges and framing strategies for a flourishing trade environment.

Historical Context and Current Constraints

Colonial Legacy and Economic Policies

The Bahamas' trading policies are greatly influenced by its colonial history with Britain, marked by conservative economic approaches that now challenge the pace of modernization and globalization in its market strategies.

Current Legislation on Gems and Precious Metals

Under the current framework, the trade of precious items is tightly controlled, with heavy duties and rigorous processes that inhibit the growth of the local market.

Challenges Under Current Trade Regime

• Limited Market Access: Restrictive policies prevented Bahamian traders from accessing larger, international markets.

• Reduced Competition: High barriers to entry discourage new players, limiting competition and innovation.

• Export Inefficiencies: Cumbersome procedures complicate the export process, making it less competitive on the global stage.

Case Study: India and Similar Countries

Open Trade Policies in India

India's liberal trade policies in gems and precious metals have positioned it as a global leader in these sectors. The government’s supportive measures include lower tariffs and fewer trade restrictions, fostering an environment ripe for growth.

Economic Benefits Realized by India

The sector’s liberalization has propelled economic benefits, with substantial increases in employment and contributions to the GDP.

Comparative Study with Other Countries

Countries like the UAE and Belgium also demonstrate how liberal trade policies can catalyze sector-specific and broader economic growth.

Proposed Benefits of Open Trade for The Bahamas

Economic Growth and Diversification

Open trade could diversify the Bahamian economy beyond tourism, tapping into the lucrative global market of gems and precious metals.

Job Creation and Skill Development

This policy shift would not only create jobs but also offer numerous opportunities for professional development in gemology and metallurgy.

Enhancement of International Relations

Liberalizing trade policies could enhance The Bahamas' position on the world economic stage, fostering better international relationships.

Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

Potential Risks Involved with Open Trade

• Economic Vulnerability: Increased exposure to global market fluctuations.

• Socio-political Concerns: Changes in trade policies might provoke resistance from traditional sectors.

Regulatory Framework Suggestions

A robust regulatory framework can mitigate these risks, ensuring that the expansion of trade is both sustainable and beneficial.

International Cooperation and Aid

Partnerships with international trade bodies could provide the necessary support for smooth policy transitions.

Conclusion: A Path Toward Prosperity

The path to revitalizing the Bahamian economy through a thriving gold and diamond exchange is fraught with challenges but brimming with potential. It requires bold leadership, like that shown by Andre Rahming, and a clear commitment to regulatory reform. By seizing this opportunity, The Bahamas can secure a prosperous and stable economic future, ensuring that its greatest gems aren't only found beneath the waves but in thriving markets and prosperous communities across the nation.

In reassessing its trade policies on gems and precious metals, The Bahamas stands on the cusp of economic transformation. Moving beyond colonial legacies and adopting a global economic model could usher in an era of prosperity previously unimagined.

Call to Action for Policy Makers

It's time for The Bahamas to boldly embrace change. Let's pave the path towards economic diversity and richness, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

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