In a direct appeal to the international community, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has called on the United Kingdom and other colonial powers to set aside their national interests and support the self-determination of the 17 remaining non-self-governing territories under the mandate of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24).

Speaking at the UN’s Pacific regional seminar on decolonisation, held in the Timorese capital Dili from 21st to 23rd May, BVI Special Envoy Benito Wheatley urged administering powers to recommit to the principles of decolonisation and support a meaningful pathway to self-government for the remaining territories on the UN’s list.

“We all must work together to make progress on decolonisation,” Mr Wheatley said in his address. “I know it is hard to separate national interests from the process, but an effort must at least be made to work in the best interest of Non-Self-Governing Territories.”

He added that the Special Committee should prioritise the dispatch of visiting missions “where this is practicable,” noting that “the politics of the process is very complicated and requires dialogue, but no effort should be spared.”

The BVI, which hosted a UN visiting mission in August 2024, was recognised in the mission’s report for its advancement toward full internal self-government. The mission also recommended the establishment of a timetable for the Territory’s eventual independence.

Mr Wheatley expressed appreciation for the UN’s engagement and reiterated the Territory’s commitment to good governance and democratic reform. He also used the opportunity to highlight the broader need for sustainable development assistance, particularly in the face of growing climate threats.

“To truly advance self-determination, UN agencies must play a more active role in supporting the development priorities of these Territories,” Mr Wheatley stated. He urged the C-24 to adopt a resolution at its upcoming June session that would allow UN agencies to utilise their regular programme budgets to support Territories classified as Small Island Developing States (SIDS), especially those that are associate members of regional commissions such as ECLAC and ESCAP.

In a firm message to London, Mr Wheatley also called on the United Kingdom to formally withdraw the Order in Council currently held in reserve, which grants it the power to suspend the BVI’s constitution and impose direct rule if triggered.

“There is no longer an excuse for the UK to maintain this unnecessary, undemocratic and blunt colonial instrument over the Territory,” he said, noting that the BVI had completed the governance reform programme agreed in 2022.

The UN’s list of territories yet to be decolonised includes American Samoa, Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, French Polynesia, Gibraltar, Guam, Montserrat, New Caledonia, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, Tokelau, Turks and Caicos Islands, the United States Virgin Islands, and Western Sahara.

The seminar in Dili marks a continuation of the UN’s longstanding commitment to decolonisation — a process that remains incomplete nearly eight decades after the adoption of the UN Charter.

Mr Neil Frett

Chair Natalie Penn-Lake Emphasises Culture, History, and Inclusivity

The 71st annual Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival was officially launched today, May 30,  heralding a month-long celebration under the theme “Uniting Our Culture, Freedom, and Joy in the Virgin Islands for Festival 2025.” The winning slogan by Jacob Edwards, “Embrace the Past, Let Unity Thrive, as we Celebrate Our Culture at Festival 2025,” encapsulates the spirit of this year’s events—centred on reflection, unity, and cultural pride.

This year’s honouree, Mr Neil Frett, was announced during the launch ceremony. Frett is being recognised for his longstanding commitment to Virgin Islands culture and heritage, particularly through his contributions to community and the arts.

Newly appointed Chair of the VI Festivals and Fairs Committee, Mrs Natalie Penn-Lake, brings a clear vision to the celebrations—one that prioritises cultural awareness, education for the youth, and community engagement.

“We’re excited about what this year’s festivities will bring,” said Mrs Penn-Lake. “We are more interested in also community being safe, bringing more togetherness, more cultural activities. You will see that in the line-up this year, where we have a lot more inclusivity of Virgin Islands history and country culture, so our young people understand where we were, where we are now, and where we are going.”

Mr. Neil Frett and Mrs Natalie Penn-Lake

With a professional background in tourism and education, Penn-Lake is keen to use the Festival as a teaching tool. “Understanding our history and our culture is very important, because the only way you can move forward is to know where you came from,” she explained. She added that she often challenges students with cultural trivia in schools to strengthen their knowledge, particularly for situations where visitors may ask questions about Virgin Islands history.

The Emancipation Festival officially begins on 13th July and concludes on 9th August, with activities scheduled across Road Town, East End, and Carrot Bay. “Eastern will have two days of activities. Carrot Bay will have three days,” Mrs Penn-Lake confirmed. “We’re inviting everybody to come out, support, have a great time, be safe, be happy, and let’s just make this Festival a great one.”

Jacob Edwards and Mrs. Briana Henley-Mather

The festival schedule features major cultural staples such as the Miss BVI Pageant (13th July), the Torchlight Procession and Festival Village Opening (25th July), Kiddies Fiesta, Latin Music Night, Calypso Show, and Soca Monarch. Traditional events such as the Rise & Shine Tramp and Jouvert in East End, the Grand Parade, and cultural showcases in Carrot Bay also remain integral to the line-up.

Those abroad and in the diaspora are being encouraged to plan their visit early. “You can plan your trip now. We want you to come home—come home, come home!” Mrs Penn-Lake urged. Details of the full entertainment schedule and artist line-up are being shared via the official Virgin Islands Festival Facebook page (@virginislandsfestival).

The Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival continues to honour the legacy of freedom and resilience, while celebrating the territory’s rich heritage through music, pageantry, food, and community spirit.

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The British Virgin Islands’ Under-19 national rugby team departed the territory today, May 30, bound for the Dominican Republic, where they will take part in the 2025 Caribbean Cup & Plate—an international rugby sevens and 10-a-side tournament scheduled from May 30 to June 2. Hosted in Santo Domingo, the event brings together top youth talent from the BVI, the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic for a weekend of competitive play, skill-building, and cultural exchange.

National coach James Morris, who is leading the contingent, described the trip as a “critical step in growing the sport” and credited local support for making it possible. “This opportunity was made possible thanks to the passionate support of our community,” Morris said. “It’s the start of a bigger movement to elevate BVI rugby and nurture young talent from the grassroots to the international stage.”

The tournament itinerary begins with a light training and integration session Friday evening, including touch-and-pass drills with mixed teams to build camaraderie among players from the three nations. Saturday will see a full schedule of sevens group matches and finals, followed by 10-a-side fixtures in the afternoon. On Sunday, the focus shifts to coaching clinics, player development, and cultural sightseeing, capped off with a closing celebration hosted by the Dominican Republic’s rugby federation. The team returns home on Monday, June 2.

The BVI squad includes 20 young athletes who have trained extensively over recent months: Saad Kosmass, Ahmad Tarabein, Tyrique Isaacs McMillan, Thomas Blyden Aldridge, Alex Wells, Jaden Ethan Maduro, Kenley Ricquel Williams, Te Kory Maxima Penn, Cooper Brian Jackson, J’Sean K’Moy Barnes, Brian Augustas Roberts Primus, B’Jhoni Augustino Roberts, Robert Charles McKenzie, Genevan Mario Vanterpool, Wil Fujitaka Seddon, Logan River Augustine Titley, Blake Kirk, Brandonn Brad Fahie, Havonte Jadez Baptiste Riviera, and Ancel Barack Wells. Accompanying the players is a support staff of eight, including Morris, Javon Carty, Brendon Carey, Victor Amparo Peña, Calum McKenzie, Mark Jones, Ioan Jones and Gordon Jackson.

Fundraising efforts from the local community—including a wine-tasting event at Myett’s in Cane Garden Bay—helped finance the team’s travel and accommodations. The BVI Rugby Football Union expressed deep appreciation to all who contributed, noting that this tour marks the beginning of a broader strategy to develop rugby across the territory.

“These young men have shown remarkable dedication and heart,” Morris added. “Now they have the chance to take the field, gain valuable international experience, and come back stronger—not just as players, but as ambassadors for the sport in the Virgin Islands.”

The BVI team is expected to return home Monday afternoon following what promises to be a transformative weekend on and off the pitch.