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UN Resolution Sparks Global Debate on British Virgin Islands’ Self-Determination
The United Nations General Assembly has thrust the question of the British Virgin Islands’ (BVI) self-determination into the international spotlight, igniting conversations on the global stage about the territory’s political destiny.
The assembly’s deliberations centered on a meticulously examined report from the Special Committee on the Situation, shedding light on the complexities surrounding the BVI’s decolonization process.
The resolution, adopted amidst growing concerns over the enduring presence of Non-Self-Governing Territories, highlights the UN’s commitment to eradicating colonialism by 2030.
Expressing unease over the prolonged existence of 17 such territories, including the British Virgin Islands, the assembly emphasized the need for flexible, practical, and innovative approaches tailored to the unique characteristics and aspirations of the BVI.
“Recognizing that all available options for self-determination of the Territory are valid as long as they are in accordance with the freely expressed wishes of the people of the British Virgin Islands,” the resolution underscores the importance of respecting the territory’s Constitution and mutual agreements regarding the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry.
The people’s voice emerges as a central theme in this dialogue, with the resolution reaffirming “the inalienable right of the people of the British Virgin Islands to self-determination.” In an exclusive quote for The New York Times, the BVI’s Premier expresses the sentiment of his people, saying, “Our journey towards self-determination is a crucial chapter in our history. The UN resolution is a testament to the global community recognizing our right to shape our own future.”
The resolution not only urges the United Kingdom, as the administering power, to engage in transparent dialogue but also calls for international cooperation, involving specialized agencies and regional organizations, to assist the BVI in its recovery, rebuilding efforts, and enhancing capabilities for emergency preparedness.
However, the path to self-determination is fraught with challenges, including concerns over the use of the BVI as an international financial center and the potential exploitation of natural resources. A BVI government spokesperson remarks, “We seek a future that aligns with the best interests of our people. The resolution signals a critical juncture, and we must navigate these challenges with careful consideration and international cooperation.”
The story unfolds against the backdrop of regional seminars and the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, which devastated the BVI in 2017.
As the international community grapples with the intricacies of the BVI’s political future, the resolution marks a pivotal moment in the territory’s journey towards self-determination, necessitating a delicate balance between global cooperation and the preservation of the BVI’s unique identity.
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First Cohort of BVI Care Certificate Graduates as Territory Moves to Standardise Health and Social Care Training
Nineteen care professionals from across the British Virgin Islands have completed the Territory’s inaugural Care Certificate programme, marking a significant step towards standardised, quality care in both public and private health and social service sectors.
Nineteen participants—14 women and five men—completed the 16-week programme, which included face-to-face and online training sessions, independent study, practical demonstrations, and formal assessments. The Care Certificate was developed by Skills for Care, Health Education England, and Skills for Health, and has been adapted for the British Virgin Islands through the UK Health Security Agency’s Overseas Territories Public Health Strengthening Programme.
The graduates represented a wide range of care settings, including the BVI Health Services Authority (8), the Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly (4), the Rainbow Children’s Home (2), the Virgin Gorda Home for the Elderly (2), and the Social Development Department’s Home Care Programme (3).
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, delivered congratulatory remarks at a brief graduation ceremony hosted by the Ministry. “This achievement is not just personal—it has direct impact on the health service delivery across the Territory,” he told the graduates.
Chief Nursing Officer and Programme Coordinator, Ms Jascinth Hannibal, emphasised the importance of the achievement. “Today, we do not simply celebrate achievement. We celebrate the birth of a new era in caregiving. You, our graduates, are pioneers in a programme created to instil excellence and affirm the dignity of service,” she said.
Ms Hannibal noted that the graduates bring with them a broad spectrum of professional experience, ranging from less than five years to over three decades. “The exchange of experiences within this group was nothing short of inspiring. I’ve learnt as much from you as you have from the programme,” she said.
She also underscored the responsibilities that come with certification. “Graduation does not mean you drop the ball. It means you are now held to a higher standard. You may even be called upon to guide and mentor others, or to serve as future assessors,” Ms Hannibal added.
Each participant will receive a Care Certified Badge and a certificate authenticated by the Ministry of Health and Social Development. The Care Certificate sets out defined standards for knowledge, skills, and behaviours expected of care professionals in their daily work and is expected to become the baseline requirement for all non-regulated personnel entering the health and social care workforce in the Virgin Islands.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to building a skilled and compassionate care workforce and enhancing public health standards throughout the Territory.
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In response to growing public concern over the status of emergency medical services on Virgin Gorda, the Minister for Health and Social Development and Ninth District Representative, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, issued a formal statement Friday confirming that the island’s ambulance is “fully operational” and currently in service.
“There was a brief period when the ambulance underwent routine servicing,” Minister Wheatley said. “During that time, contingency measures were implemented to ensure uninterrupted emergency response capabilities.”
Hon. Vincent Wheatley
Though he did not detail what those measures entailed, Minister Wheatley emphasized that emergency medical readiness was never compromised. He also extended thanks to the residents of Virgin Gorda for their patience during the temporary maintenance period.
The Minister’s statement follows a wave of concern across social media and in local circles about the island’s preparedness to handle medical emergencies, particularly in light of its geographic separation from the territory’s main hospital on Tortola.
“The safety and well-being of all residents remain our highest priority,” Wheatley stated. “We are committed to ensuring that Virgin Gorda, and all our Sister Islands, continue to receive the emergency medical services they rightfully deserve.”
Residents with questions regarding medical services have been encouraged to contact the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre on Virgin Gorda or the BVI Health Services Authority directly.
This update comes as the territory continues to assess and strengthen healthcare services across its Sister Islands, many of which rely on limited resources and face logistical challenges due to inter-island travel and infrastructure constraints.
Minister Wheatley concluded his statement by reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and prompt communication when it comes to critical public services.
Liburd erases Ashley Kelly’s 400m record; Croal ranks 6th globally in 200m
Athletes from the British Virgin Islands made history at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field Championships First-Round held in Jacksonville, Florida this week, setting new national records in the 400m and 200m events.
On 29 May, Kaelyaah Liburd ran 51.43 seconds in the women’s 400 metres, establishing a new BVI national record and qualifying for the second round of competition scheduled for 31 May. The performance breaks the previous mark of 51.63 seconds, set by Ashley Kelly, OLY, on 8 July 2017 at the Tru Fit Miami Invitational.
One day later, on 30 May, Jaleel Croal delivered a standout performance in the men’s 200 metres, clocking 19.95 seconds at the NCAA East Prelims. The result set a new BVI national record and currently ranks Croal sixth in the world for the 2025 outdoor season in the event.
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