Inadequate Access to Information

In the Caribbean, hidden hands often steers the wheel. Lack of public oversight, like an unchecked tide, can erode the foundations of our communities and leave our environment gasping for breath. The consequences unfold like a domino effect: biodiversity plummets, fragile ecosystems unravel, and communities dependent on those resources are left adrift. Ties to ancestral land are broken and cultural tapestry dissipates thread by thread. These are the unseen costs of development without accountability, where private interests often trump the public good. Access to information is not a luxury, it’s a lifeline. It shines a light into the murky corners of decision-making, empowering communities to raise their voices and protect their livelihoods, their land, their future.

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Port of Belize Cargo Expansion and the Community

Port Loyola is a Southside Belize City Community home to roughly 1,200 residents, with stevedoring, the art of loading and unloading container ships being its economic backbone and the Port of Belize Limited is its primary source of income. The income of 1 in 5 families here has been based on stevedoring, for 2 generations. Any new development at the port will directly impact the livelihood of these families, they must be given a seat at the table. Yet, when Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd submitted a $200 million USD proposal for a Port of Belize Cargo Expansion, Cruise Terminal, and Cruise Terminal development, the input of the residents was treated as after thought. …displacement from prior plots.
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People of Grenada Fighting Lack of Transparency in Court

Grenadians are raising alarm bells over the lack of public transparency in development decisions at La Sagesse, Lev Era, and Mt. Hartman. Whispers of shadowy deals and backroom approvals swirl around these projects, prompting citizens to storm the courts. The culprit? The government’s Planning and Development Authority, accused of flouting the very law it enforces – the 2016 Physical Planning Act. This act mandates a publicly accessible register of development approvals, a vital tool for ensuring transparency and accountability. Yet, the register remains shrouded in secrecy. The people of Grenada demand answers, and their courthouse stand is just the beginning. The People of Grenada have felt forced to take their government to court over the matter of the decision of the grant of approvals for developments at La Sagesse in the Parish of St. David, Lev Era in the Parish of St. Patrick and Mt. Hartman in the Parish of St. George. The concern is the government, by way of it’s Planning and Development Authority, failing to keep a publicly accessible register in accordance with the physical planning and development control ACT 2016.

In the News

Jamaica is Developing, But at What Cost

Jamaica is Developing, But at What Cost Environmentalists in Jamaica are concerned about several large developments planned for the north coast. These projects involve luxury high-rises, marinas, and golf courses, and some lack transparency in environmental impact assessments and public engagement. Critics worry about damage to protected areas, limited beach access for locals, and a … Continue reading "Jamaica is...

Read MoreMarch 11, 2024

Antigua Seaforth Beach & Mangroves Petition Raises Concerns over Transparency and Environmental Impact

Antigua Seaforth Beach & Mangroves Petition Raises Concerns over Transparency and Environmental Impact A petition calling for the protection of Seaforth Beach and its surrounding mangroves has gained hundreds of signatures overnight, highlighting concerns about access to information and the potential environmental impact of a planned Special Economic Zone (SEZ) development. Key points: Limited transparency: … Continue reading "Antigua Seaforth...

Read MoreJanuary 19, 2024

Information Access Concerns Plague 8,000-Room Hotel Project in Jamaica

Information Access Concerns Plague 8,000-Room Hotel Project in Jamaica Information access concerns plague Amaterra’s 8,000-room hotel project in Trelawny. Environmentalists warn that relying on EIAs from over a decade ago is risky and ignores crucial issues like climate change. Key points: EIA shelf life expired: Assessments done in 2005-2007 no longer reflect current environmental conditions, … Continue reading "Information Access...

Read MoreJanuary 19, 2024

Lack of EIA for East-West Road in the Cayman Islands Raises Concerns about Access to Information and Environmental Impact

Concerns over transparency surround Cayman's East-West Arterial Road due to incomplete environmental studies. Public demands a full EIA to assess risks before construction damages mangroves and water sources. Rushing the project risks long-term harm, and alternative solutions like improved public transport are urged.

Read MoreJanuary 19, 2024

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In the tumultuous aftermath of disasters, it is easy to feel isolated and alone, but you are not.

We, a network of Caribbean-wide community organizers who stand in solidarity with those affected the twin threats of the climate crises and disaster capitalism, a phenomenon that exacerbates the suffering of vulnerable communities.

We want you to know that your stories matter. We are here to listen, to support, and to amplify your voices.

We believe that together, we can challenge the forces of disaster capitalism and advocate for more sustainable, inclusive and equitable decision-making.

Join us in solidarity. Share your experiences and let’s build strong communities that thrive together.

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As the wider world braces for the climate change, Caribbean communities are already struggling with its effects. Small local communities, small scale farmers and coastal communities are disproportionately affected. Political decisions, power dynamics and laws often compound the catastrophes and silence bottom up solutions.

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