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Roseau, Monday 16th December, 2024- Bleu Magic Rum, Dominica’s first premium rum, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with award-winning Bouyon artist Mr. Ridge, marking a pivotal moment in its journey to redefine the global rum scene. Together, Bleu Magic and Ridge will bring a bold, rebellious energy to rum enthusiasts worldwide, celebrating the vibrant culture and spirit of the Nature Island. Bleu Magic, represents a new era for Caribbean rum. Inspired by the Maroons of Dominica—famed for their resilience and defiance against slavery—the rum embodies a "spirit of rebellion" rooted in history yet designed for modern tastes. As a Black-owned brand in an industry dominated by titans with little connection to the Caribbean region, save for its complex colonial past, Bleu Magic stands apart as an authentic export of Dominican heritage and craftsmanship. Enter Mr. Ridge, Caribbean Bouyon Artist of the Year and a cultural trailblazer who has taken Dominica's unique Bouyon music to the world stage. Known for his infectious beats and boundary-pushing lyrics, Ridge disrupted the Caribbean music space in 2018 when he made his debut as an artist and has since then, captivated audiences from Dominica to Europe and beyond, making him the perfect ambassador for Bleu Magic. “I think Bleu Magic and Ridge is a great partnership because we share a similar mission: to conquer the world and promote Dominica fully,” says Ridge. “It’s exciting to represent a locally-based product with such international appeal.” Fresh off his Caribbean Music Award win in August 2024, Ridge’s influence continues to rise as he introduces Bouyon to new audiences globally. His role as Bleu Magic’s ambassador reflects the brand's strategy to represent culturally making a Rum that appeals to a younger, dynamic adult demographic who value authenticity, quality, and cultural connection. Rum production in the Caribbean is inextricably linked to the region’s colonial past and the transatlantic slave trade. The inspiration for Bleu Magic lies in the legacy of Dominica’s Maroons—enslaved Africans who escaped plantations and resisted oppression, carving out lives of freedom in the island’s rugged mountains. Crafted at the Belfast Estate, where rum-making has flourished since the late 1800s, Bleu Magic honors this tradition while forging a bold new path. Its sleek branding, premium quality, and cultural connection aim to shift old perceptions of rum. “We wanted to create a rum that captures the essence of Dominica—its wild beauty, its rebellious spirit, and its rich history,” says Elroy Harrow, brand manager for Bleu Magic. “With Ridge as our ambassador, we’re showing the world what the Caribbean has to offer—a premium, authentic product with global appeal.” Bleu Magic’s collaboration with Ridge highlights its ambition to take Dominica’s rum industry to new heights. The partnership was launched during Dominica’s Independence celebrations, where the rum made a splash with VIP attendees at the World Creole Music Festival – the largest music event for the Season which attracts Dominicans in the Diaspora as well as Regional tastemakers. “Bleu Magic is one of Dominica’s best-kept secrets,” says Harrow. “But not for long. We’re ready to introduce the world to a premium rum that reflects the soul of our island—bold, authentic, and unapologetically rebellious.” Bleu Magic Rum is more than a drink—it’s an experience that blends history, culture, and craftsmanship into every bottle. Discover the spirit of rebellion and join the movement as Bleu Magic brings Dominica to the world. OnTarget Comm

On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, the Dominica Association of Evangelical Churches (DAEC) had its Annual General Meeting (AGM). A cross-section of pastors and evangelical leaders was present at this much- anticipated meeting. At this year’s AGM, some pertinent topics and issues were discussed and notes were made to inform future plans by the executive of the association. Also at this AGM, elections took place for the positions of president and vice president and we are pleased to announce the election results. The executive of the DAEC now comprises of the following: President - Rev. Matthew Auguiste Vice President - Pastor Dr. Robertson Thomas Secretary - Rev. Mrs. Jennifer C. Valerie Treasurer - Minister Avril Junkere Assistant Secretary/Treasurer - Rev. Dontae Adams Members: • Apostle Joseph Benjamin • Rev. Casmus John We look forward to continuing to work with all of our evangelical partners going forward.

The Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Eleventh Parliament will be held at the House of Assembly on Monday, December 16, 2024. Prime Minister, Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit will present a Bill for an Act to make provisions for the effective operation of the Electoral Commission; a Bill for an Act to make provisions for the election of members to the House of Assembly, and a Bill for an Act to make new provisions for the registration of electors. The bills will be presented for the first reading ONLY. The Honourable Dr. Irving McIntyre, Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security will seek approval for Supplementary Estimates of Expenditure for the financial year ending June 30, 2024. The Honourable Cassanni Laville, the Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services will introduce a Bill for an Act to establish a Pharmacy Council to provide for the regulation of pharmacists and pharmacies and to regulate the supply of drugs to the public; as well as a Bill for an Act to establish the Medical Laboratories Council to provide for the licensing, monitoring and inspection of the operations of a Medical Laboratory. Government will also seek parliamentary approval for a bank guarantee to secure the commitments made in the Air Service Agreement between the Discover Dominica Authority and United Airlines Inc; as well as authorization of an additional credit facility from the International Development Association (IDA) to fund the completion of the East Coast Road from Bois Diable to Hatton Garden via Castle Bruce and the Kalinago Territory. The funds will meet the additional cost of rehabilitation due to remedial works required as a result of change in site conditions since the completion of the original designs and to increase the resilience of the section of the road. Other matters on the Order Paper include the Money Laundering (Prevention) (Amendment) Bill 2024, Proceeds of Crime (Amendment) Bill 2024, Investment Funds Bill 2024, Dominica Hospitals Authority (Amendment) Bill 2024, Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission Agreement 2024 and Securities Bill 2024.

United Nations Resident Coordinator, Simon Springett, has congratulated the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica on the country’s accession to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, as announced at the recent Universal Periodic Review dialogue in Geneva. On December 5, Dominica became the 175th state party to this core human rights treaty demonstrating a strong commitment to safeguarding the dignity and fundamental freedoms of all human beings. This Convention seeks to eradicate torture in all its forms and ensure justice and accountability for victims. In reflecting on this milestone, Mr. Springett noted: “Dominica’s decision to add this essential treaty to the various other international instruments it has ratified, is a clear demonstration of its unwavering dedication to human rights and the rule of law. This step reinforces the country’s commitment to ensuring access to justice and protection of the dignity of all human beings. Some Highlights of the Convention Against Torture  Prohibition of Torture: Establishes an absolute ban on torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment under all circumstances.  Accountability Measures: Requires states to investigate and prosecute acts of torture and to provide reparations to victims.  International Cooperation: Promotes collaboration between states to prevent and combat torture globally.  Prevention Mechanisms: Encourages measures such as training for law enforcement and judicial personnel to prevent the occurrence of torture. The Role of the UN in Supporting Implementation The UN system is fully committed to supporting the Government of Dominica in its efforts to implement the provisions of the Convention, and all other human rights instruments ratified by Dominica. Through technical assistance, training, and capacity-building initiatives, the United Nations will work closely with the Government, the justice system, civil society and others to ensure the treaty’s obligations are fully implemented in law, policy, and practice, and accountability is ensured. Additional Resources for Information Members of the press and the general public seeking further information on the UN Convention against Torture or the support provided by the UN system in Dominica can visit:  Human Rights Instrument: Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment  Committee against Torture (CAT)- the body of independent experts that monitors the implementation of the Convention

Dominica made a strong showing at the prestigious Hewanorra National Honey Show in St. Lucia, which took place after the 12th Caribbean Beekeepers Congress. The four-day Congress was a highly anticipated gathering for beekeepers from across the Caribbean to come together, network, and exchange knowledge and best practices. The Hewanorra National Honey Show is not only a platform for learning but also a competition where Caribbean nations compete for top honors in various categories, showcasing the finest in honey, beeswax products, and other value-added products. At this year’s show, Dominica's participants excelled in multiple categories, winning sixteen awards reinforcing the island’s reputation for high-quality bee products. Dominica entered into a wide range of categories and received multiple awards, demonstrating the island's diverse talent and expertise. Beekeepers from across the Caribbean islands participated in the show, including Antigua, Barbuda, St. Lucia, Dominica, Trinidad, Tobago, Guyana, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Barbados, Montserrat, Grenada, Jamaica, British Virgin Islands, and St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Dominica’s exceptional performance at the show is highlighted by the following first-place awards: • Medium Amber Extracted Honey – 1st Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • CARICOM Honey – 1st place (Nathaniel Lovell) – Best Honey in CARICOM • Mead – 1st Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Best in Show OECS – Nathaniel Lovell • Art (Adult) – 1st Prize (Carol Sorhaindo) In addition to these top honors, Dominica received awards in several other categories, showcasing the island’s wide-ranging excellence. The full list of additional awards is as follows: • Photography – 2nd Prize (Vernella Orlé) • Photography – 3rd Prize (Terri Henry-Lovell) • Best Commercial Product (Value Added Product) – 2nd Prize (Terri Henry-Lovell) • Beeswax Candles – 2nd Prize (Terri Henry-Lovell) • Inclusions with Chocolate – 2nd Prize (Alan Napier) • Light Amber Extracted Honey – 3rd Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Dark Amber Extracted Honey – 3rd Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Beeswax Block – 3rd Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Chocolate Bar (Dark) – 3rd Prize (Alan Napier) • Chocolate Bar (Milk) – 3rd Prize (Alan Napier) Additionally, Nathaniel Lovell also won the coveted UK National Honey Show Blue Ribbon Award for the best exhibit in the entire show, further solidifying Dominica's high ranking after their recent first place in the UK National Honey Show International Category for 2 matching jars. With awards spanning across honey, beeswax products, photography, art, and even chocolate, Dominica’s participants proved their expertise across categories, demonstrating the island’s commitment to excellence in beekeeping and product development. Competitions were also held in honey cocktail, honey cakes, and best commercial product (honey), and junior art. In 2023, participants won six awards at the Hewanorra Honey Show and with this recent landslide of sixteen awards, which was the most awards received by any one country, Dominica continues to improve and excel.

The Government of Dominica has approved the granting of concessions on Christmas barrels imported into Dominica for the period December 9, 2024 to January 10, 2025. A ‘barrel’ refers to non-commercial packages received in receptacles such as barrels, boxes, crates, packages and drums; and containing items for personal use only and not for commercial use. Eligible items shall be foodstuff with limited items of clothing, toiletries and toys. Barrels valued up to EC$1,500.00, will be exempt from Import Duty, Environmental Levy and Customs Service Charge and each household in Dominica is entitled to a maximum of two (2) barrels. A flat port charge of Ten Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$10.00) will be payable to the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASPA) for charges related to handling and storing of the barrels, and the Value Added Tax (Vat) of 15 percent of the import value will be payable to the Comptroller of Customs.

On Tuesday, 3rd December 2024, the Commonwealth of Dominica, represented by the Honourable Attorney General, Mr. Levi A. Peter and Mrs. Vanica Sobers-Joseph, Senior State Attorney in the Chambers of the Attorney General delivered compelling oral submissions at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) during hearings on the obligations of States concerning climate change. These historic proceedings aim to provide an Advisory Opinion on the legal obligations of States to safeguard the climate system and the legal consequences for States whose actions or omissions exacerbate climate harm, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and future generations. The Commonwealth of Dominica’s delegation also included Ms. Annika Kamilla Bellot, Attorney-at-Law (AOSIS Fellow) and Attaché at Dominica’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations. In his opening statement, the Honourable Attorney General underscored the critical threat climate change poses, particularly to Dominica and other SIDS, highlighting the devastating impacts of the increasing frequency and intensity of storms and rising sea levels. He urged the Court to affirm the legal obligations of States to protect the climate system and stressed the principle of fairness, calling for greater accountability from those contributing disproportionately to global warming. Mrs. Sobers-Joseph’s submissions called on the Court to use the Advisory Opinion to address climate change in a very frontal way and to promote justice and accountability in Climate Change based on the principles of customary international law. The Court was urged to not limit its deliberations to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, as high emitting States’ have a responsibility to prevent environmental harm, uphold principles of due diligence for vulnerable nations like Dominica as it is a human right to a healthy environment. This engagement at the ICJ reflects Dominica’s unwavering leadership in global climate advocacy. As the nation strives to become the world’s first climate-resilient country, it remains resolute in championing the rights of SIDS and future generations. Dominica continues to call for strengthened international cooperation and accountability to address the mounting challenges of the climate crisis. The hearings, which began on Monday, 2nd December 2024, brought together SIDS, other nations, and international organisations to underscore the pressing need for legal clarity and accountability in the face of the global climate crisis. The hearings are scheduled to continue over the next two weeks, concluding on Friday, 13th December 2024, at the Peace Palace in The Hague. -Ends-

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) jointly hosted a pivotal regional webinar on November 27, 2024, titled: "Human Security, Human Mobility, and Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems to Achieve Resilience in the Caribbean Region”. This dialogue brought together regional experts, community leaders, and policymakers to discuss the increasing threats of disaster displacement, environmental migration, and climate change in the Caribbean. The webinar highlighted the importance of using the human security approach and the need for community participation to effectively address the multifaceted challenges faced by Caribbean nations. In recent years, the Caribbean has witnessed a surge in displacement events, including those caused by hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. These events have had devastating consequences for affected populations, forcing many to seek refuge elsewhere. To mitigate the impact of these disasters and promote sustainable recovery, it is crucial to resource and implement multi-hazard early warning systems that are embedded with the human security principles and dimensions. Viola Pascal, Project Coordinator at IOM, emphasized the need to consider the broader context of human security, which encompasses not only physical safety but also social, economic, and environmental well-being. "Human security threats increase for displaced people who are vulnerable not only to impending hazards but also to limitations in protection and empowerment initiatives. Thinking through the lens of human security ensures no one is left behind." Kana Kudo, Programme Management Officer at the UN Trust Fund for Human Security, further elaborated on the concept of human security, highlighting its relevance to sustainable development. She stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of displacement and migration, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. "Human security is a paradigm shift. It recognizes threats and insecurities that are interconnected, transversal, and often compounding. By placing displaced people and receiving communities at the heart of interventions, we can address vulnerabilities holistically and develop shared objectives for intergovernmental collaboration." The role of communities in disaster preparedness was underscored by John Mussington, a marine biologist and community advocate from Antigua and Barbuda, who reflected on Hurricane Irma’s impact: "Local governance represents and serves the needs of communities. Their inclusion in planning is absolutely essential. Barbuda’s survival during Irma was due in part to years of preparation, where every household knew how to utilize warning systems and prepare for the worst." Likewise, Michelle Forbes, Director of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, shared practical insights: "We’ve seen how regional coordination and inter-sectoral partnerships can strengthen our response to disasters. But building resilience must also happen within communities, empowering them to lead recovery efforts and adapt to challenges. Community resilience is key." Experts stressed the compounded risks of climate change on vulnerable communities. Alana Lewis, Technical Consultant for the Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) initiative with UNDRR, provided critical data: "Between 1950 and 2016, the Caribbean experienced 324 disasters, resulting in $22 billion in economic losses and 250,000 lives lost. Climate change is not just a risk multiplier; it’s creating new hazards. Deliberate and urgent action is required to minimize these risks and protect livelihoods." She further highlighted the role of the MCR2030 initiative in building urban resilience, explaining how disaster risk reduction can be integrated into city planning to protect people and infrastructure. The webinar concluded with a lively Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to ask questions and share their perspectives. Dr. Juan Carlos, representing the Platform on Disaster Displacement (PDD), emphasized the importance of communication in disaster preparedness: "We must recognize that an effective warning and feedback system can support disaster personnel, first responders, and community volunteers in having an effective evacuation system and in dealing with the difficult part of getting people to move out of harm's way. The decision to evacuate could be made a little easier by having reliable and consistent information." Collaboration among agencies, sectors, and governance levels is critical to addressing the multi-faceted challenges of disaster displacement and recovery. The moderator of the event, Dr. Clarence Henry, Acting Head of the Regional Integration Unit, OECS Commission, underscored the importance of partnerships: "You really cannot build resilient communities without putting at the center, at its core, the full involvement of the persons who are most to be impacted by those decisions." Background Climate change related hazards and other disasters have led to significant displacement and migration in the Caribbean. Events like Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 and the volcanic eruption in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2021 have underscored the need for a comprehensive multi-hazard early warning system implemented through the human security approach. The Human Security Joint Programme in the Caribbean seeks to address these challenges by increasing awareness of human security and its interconnections with human mobility and resilience; strengthening multi-hazard early warning systems to improve disaster preparedness; promoting the MCR2030 initiative to enhance urban resilience and developing actionable recommendations to address disaster displacement and improve recovery efforts. IOM and UNDRR urge stakeholders across the Caribbean to adopt inclusive resilience strategies, prioritize people-centered governance, and embrace innovative solutions to the challenges posed by climate change. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Caribbean.

The Dominica Diabetes Association extends its heartfelt gratitude to our many sponsors, supporters, and friends for their unwavering commitment and enthusiasm during Diabetes Awareness Month this November. Thanks to your generosity and support, we achieved significant milestones in our mission to raise awareness and promote education about diabetes in our community. Throughout November, we successfully executed a series of initiatives designed to inform the public about diabetes prevention and management. Our objectives included: - Conducting educational sessions and health fairs illustrating practical ways of controlling and managing complications of all types of Diabetes. Public radio discussions were widespread covering relevant topics such as nutrition, physical activity ( sports and exercise ), drug management and adherence, and adapting to healthier lifestyle choices. - The inclusion of the Mass Media and the Corporate Community to assist with the branding and amplifying of the mandate of the association through health fairs, radio, and live social media broadcasts. - Distributing educational materials and resources at local health centers and community events. These accomplishments have strengthened our community's understanding of diabetes and fostered a culture of health and wellness. Looking ahead, we are excited to announce a series of upcoming events planned for 2025 that will further our efforts in diabetes awareness and management: 1. National Diabetes Symposium: This event will bring together healthcare professionals, researchers, and community members to discuss the latest advancements in diabetes care and treatment. Stay tuned for the date and location! 2. Formation of Community Diabetes Management Groups: We aim to empower individuals living with diabetes through the establishment of local support groups, fostering peer support and shared experiences to enhance diabetes management. 3. Youth Advocacy on Diabetes Awareness: Recognizing the importance of engaging the younger generation, we will launch initiatives aimed at educating and involving youth in diabetes awareness campaigns. We invite everyone to join us in these endeavors as we continue to work together toward a healthier future for Dominica. Your support is invaluable, and we look forward to collaborating with you in the coming year. Once again, thank you to all our sponsors, supporters, and friends for making Diabetes Awareness Month a resounding success. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by diabetes.

A delegation from the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. led by Nathaniel Lovell is currently representing Dominica at the 12th Annual Beekeepers Congress in St. Lucia. This prestigious event serves as a vital platform for beekeepers from across the Caribbean to gather, exchange knowledge, and network with industry peers. The Congress provides an invaluable opportunity for members of the apiculture industry to learn from experts, address challenges facing the sector, and explore the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in honey production and beekeeping management. The event’s schedule includes a variety of workshops and networking sessions designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of beekeepers. Dominica’s team at the Congress includes Nathaniel Lovell (Vice President), Vernella Orlé (Public Relations Officer), Antonia Joseph (Supervisory Committee Member), and Terri Henry-Lovell (Cooperative Member) from the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. The delegation is further strengthened by the participation of Bryan Bertrand, Animal Health & Production Officer with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue & Green Economy, and Mr. Lude Kitchener Laville from Kibe Kuati Inc., a Kalinago beekeepers’ group who is keen to gain invaluable insights into enhancing beekeeping within the indigenous community. One of the event's highlights is the Annual Honey Show, where entries from participating countries, including Dominica, are showcased and judged across multiple categories. Dominica has entered into the following categories: • Light Amber Extracted Honey; • Medium Amber Extracted Honey; • Dark Amber Extracted Honey; • Beeswax Block; • Photography; • Art (Adult); • Best Commercial Product (Honey); • Best Commercial Product (Value added product); • Mead; • CARICOM (Honey & Wax); • Beeswax Candles; • Chocolate bar (Dark); • Chocolate bar (Milk); • Inclusions with Chocolate; This Congress offers a significant opportunity for Dominica to showcase its beekeeping talent, strengthen industry connections, and contribute to the ongoing development of the Caribbean apiculture sector.

Da Next Level Sports Management Announces Exciting Corporate Futsal Tournament for January 2025 Roseau, Dominica – Da Next Level Sports Management & Recruiting Group is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated Corporate Futsal Tournament 2025, set to take place from January 11th to January 26th, 2025. Designed to foster corporate camaraderie, competitive spirit, and athletic prowess, this tournament promises to bring together teams from various organizations to compete in one of the most exhilarating futsal events of the year.   Prizes and Regional Qualification In addition to bragging rights, exciting prizes await the top teams. The top two finalists will also earn the prestigious opportunity to represent Dominica in the first-ever regional Kreyol Corporate Futsal Cup—a thrilling event that will gather the best corporate futsal teams from across the region. Registration Deadline Approaching Fast Teams looking to participate are urged to register before the December 20th, 2024 deadline. Limited spots are available, so early registration is encouraged. Companies across the island are invited to register their teams and prepare for an action-packed tournament. Event Details:   Registration Deadline: December 20th, 2024 Tournament Dates: January 11th - January 26th, 2025

By Mr. Simon Springett and Dr. Richard Amenyah World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, provides an opportunity to honor those lost to HIV and AIDS and to recognize the resilience of those living with HIV. This year's theme, “Take the Rights Path,” is a powerful reminder that the fight against HIV and AIDS is more than a public health challenge, but a call for social justice and the protection of human rights. The State of HIV Response in the Eastern Caribbean Across the Eastern Caribbean, the incidence of HIV remains relatively low, ranging from 0.5% to 1.5%, with high-risk populations being disproportionately impacted. Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have made commendable progress in reducing new HIV infections and scaling up access to treatment, with the elimination of Mother-to-Child transmission achieved in Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. However, significant gaps remain in linking newly diagnosed individuals to antiretroviral therapy and achieving viral suppression. Across countries, concerns also persist with people presenting very late with advanced HIV disease, and possibly contributing to AIDS mortalities from opportunistic infections including Tuberculosis (TB). In Barbados, there is positive news regarding youth in the 15 – 24 age group, where the HIV incidence rate reduced by more than 50% , from 86 new HIV infections per 100,000 people in 2010 to 40 new infections in 2023. For young women, there were 28 new infections per 100,000 people in 2023, down from 68 new HIV infections in 2010. With young people still representing between 1 in 4 new HIV infections in St. Lucia and St. Kitts and Nevis, and 1 in 3 in Barbados, targeted interventions are still needed. To make further inroads in this fight, we must address rights-related barriers, such as stigma and discrimination, to promote early diagnosis and provide access to timely care and treatment. Community-based testing for key populations, including self-testing and network testing, should also be expanded as part of a differentiated approach. Human Rights: The Foundation of an Effective HIV Response Human rights are central to ending AIDS as a public health threat, and within the Eastern Caribbean this requires more than medical interventions. The recent decriminalization of same-sex, sexual relationships, by courts in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis, marks significant national progress. Conversely, punitive laws that criminalize aspects of sex work, drug use, and HIV transmission, continue to hinder access to prevention, testing, and treatment services. It is imperative that human rights-related barriers to HIV and TB services, such as fear of legal repercussions, be dismantled. To truly end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, Eastern Caribbean countries and regional institutions must continue to prioritize the protection of human rights, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable groups such as people living with HIV. Leveraging Resources for a Rights-Based Response Fiscal constraints faced by the Eastern Caribbean countries due to COVID-19, extreme weather events, and limited economic resilience, have impacted the allocation of resources for health. Governments must continue to leverage innovative financing mechanisms, such as debt-for-health swaps and public-private partnerships, to sustain and scale up HIV services. The new Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria allocation for the OECS will be a critical tool to address gaps in prevention, testing, and treatment , particularly for people living with and most affected by HIV. A Call to Action On this World AIDS Day, the United Nations calls on governments, policymakers, and civil society in the Eastern Caribbean to take decisive steps to end AIDS by 2030, by creating an enabling legal environment, strengthening community systems, and integrating HIV services into primary health care. The time to act is now. In the words of the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, "Ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is achievable. But reaching this goal requires breaking down the barriers keeping people from vital services." Let us take the rights path—not just for those living with HIV, but for everyone who envisions a future where health and dignity are guaranteed for all.' Mr. Simon Edward Springett: UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Dr. Richard Amenyah: UNAIDS Multi-Country Director, Caribbean Region