| MONTSERRAT Montserrat Montserrat (overseas territory of the UK) Joined United Nations: 24 October 1945 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 07/01/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Plymouth
Plymouth was abandoned in 1997 due to volcanic activity; interim
government buildings have been built at Brades Estate, in the
Carr's Bay/Little Bay vicinity at the northwest end of Montserrat
Plymouth was abandoned in 1997 due to volcanic activity; interim
government buildings have been built at Brades Estate, in the
Carr's Bay/Little Bay vicinity at the northwest end of Montserrat
5,118
note: an estimated 8,000 refugees left the island following the
resumption of volcanic activity in July 1995; some have returned
(July 2010 est.)
note: an estimated 8,000 refugees left the island following the
resumption of volcanic activity in July 1995; some have returned
(July 2010 est.)
Elizabeth II of United Kingdom
Queen since 6 February 1952
Queen since 6 February 1952
The monarch is hereditary and holds that position for life or until
abdication. The Governor is selected by the Queen.
Next scheduled election: None
abdication. The Governor is selected by the Queen.
Next scheduled election: None
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Reuben Meade
Chief Minister since 10 September 2009
Chief Minister since 10 September 2009
Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party
usually becomes chief minister
elections: last held 8 September 2009
Next scheduled election: 2014
usually becomes chief minister
elections: last held 8 September 2009
Next scheduled election: 2014
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Black, white
| RELIGIONS |
Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist, other Christian denominations
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Overseas territory of the United Kingdom with 3 parishes. Legal system is English common law and statutory law
Executive: Monarch is hereditary; governor appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the leader of the
majority party usually becomes chief minister
Legislative: Unicameral Legislative Council (11 seats, 9 popularly elected; members serve five-year terms)
note: expanded in 2001 from 7 to 9 elected members with attorney general and financial secretary sitting as ex-officio
members
elections: last held 8 September 2009 (next to be held by 2014)
Judicial: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia, one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the
islands and presides over the High Court)
Executive: Monarch is hereditary; governor appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the leader of the
majority party usually becomes chief minister
Legislative: Unicameral Legislative Council (11 seats, 9 popularly elected; members serve five-year terms)
note: expanded in 2001 from 7 to 9 elected members with attorney general and financial secretary sitting as ex-officio
members
elections: last held 8 September 2009 (next to be held by 2014)
Judicial: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia, one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the
islands and presides over the High Court)
| LANGUAGES |
English
| BRIEF HISTORY |
Montserrat's early history has much in common with its Caribbean neighbors, although there are some differences. Like
many of its sister islands, Montserrat was formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions, giving the island its
picturesque mountain ranges and black sand beaches. Its first known inhabitants were Saladoid Amerindians. They left
traces of their way of life, which have been studied by archaeologists at several sites on the island, most of which,
however, now fall in the unsafe volcanic zone. The best known and most thoroughly studied of these sites was at Trants,
near the now abandoned W H Bramble Airport. Here, several skeletons were found, as well as many artifacts dating
back as far as 500 AD. The Amerindians named the island Alliouagana, or "land of the prickly bush," which was probably
named for the aloe plant. This name has been revived and used by several cultural groups in modern times. Christopher
Columbus sailed by Montserrat in 1493, although he did not land here. He named the island after the abbey of Santa
Maria de Montserrate, located in a mountainous region of Spain, which he felt had a similar appearance. At that time the
island was reportedly deserted, although Carib Amerindians subsequently raided the island from time to time from nearby
Guadeloupe. The first European settlers arrived around 1632, and were probably Irish Catholics from nearby St. Kitts,
fleeing persecution for their religion. Catholics from Virginia joined them, and Montserrat gradually became a refuge for
Catholics of Irish decent. It has been noted that Irish people of all walks of life came to Montserrat, from wealthy
landowners to poor indentured servants. These people gave Montserrat its now familiar name "The Emerald Isle of the
Caribbean," and several aspects of the island's heritage are attributed to the Irish. These include place names, surnames,
the local accent (supposedly similar to an Irish brogue), and perhaps certain cultural and food items. The governing
power, however, was England, with some short periods when the French took over. The wars between the European
countries were at their height, and these spilled over to the Caribbean. Remnants of fortifications with canons remind us of
these times, although some of these are now inaccessible in the volcanic area. Tobacco was one of Montserrat's principal
early crops, but was soon replaced by sugar. From the mid-1600s until 1834 came the tragic period of slavery, when
thousands of Africans were shipped to the Caribbean to work on the booming sugar plantations. These people lived and
perished on the sugar estates, enduring the harshest of conditions while they boosted the economy of the "mother
country." They were the ancestors of the majority of Montserrat's present-day inhabitants. There was one documented
slave uprising in 1768. St. Patrick's Day was chosen because landowners would be distracted with the celebrations.
Although unsuccessful the rebellion is significant, since it underlined the desire of the population to strive for freedom. It is
commemorated every year on St. Patrick's Day with a good humoured week of colorful activities, which also highlight the
Irish heritage. Slavery was abolished in 1834, but it would be many years before the population was able to shake off the
legacy of poverty and deprivation. During the early days of this century, cotton was the main crop. The rise of the trade
union movement in the 1940s and '50s paved the way to universal suffrage and the modern political and social structure
seen today. The island remains a British Overseas Territory, with a British governor and a locally elected government.
In 1989 modern comfort was disrupted when Hurricane Hugo struck, ripping roofs off buildings, gutting homes and
ruining the infrastructure. It took several years to repair this damage. By 1995, a new state-of-the-art hospital was built,
as well as government headquarters, legislative council, roads and other infrastructure. People had finally rebuilt their
homes. But most of this effort and expense was to come to nothing. As if to add insult to injury, the volcano in the
southern mountains became active in 1995, reaching its height in 1997 when Plymouth (the capital), as well as all southern
and eastern villages, was destroyed. Residents of these areas were relocated to the north, while many migrated to Britain
and elsewhere, more than halving the population.
Source: UK Holiday Guide
many of its sister islands, Montserrat was formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions, giving the island its
picturesque mountain ranges and black sand beaches. Its first known inhabitants were Saladoid Amerindians. They left
traces of their way of life, which have been studied by archaeologists at several sites on the island, most of which,
however, now fall in the unsafe volcanic zone. The best known and most thoroughly studied of these sites was at Trants,
near the now abandoned W H Bramble Airport. Here, several skeletons were found, as well as many artifacts dating
back as far as 500 AD. The Amerindians named the island Alliouagana, or "land of the prickly bush," which was probably
named for the aloe plant. This name has been revived and used by several cultural groups in modern times. Christopher
Columbus sailed by Montserrat in 1493, although he did not land here. He named the island after the abbey of Santa
Maria de Montserrate, located in a mountainous region of Spain, which he felt had a similar appearance. At that time the
island was reportedly deserted, although Carib Amerindians subsequently raided the island from time to time from nearby
Guadeloupe. The first European settlers arrived around 1632, and were probably Irish Catholics from nearby St. Kitts,
fleeing persecution for their religion. Catholics from Virginia joined them, and Montserrat gradually became a refuge for
Catholics of Irish decent. It has been noted that Irish people of all walks of life came to Montserrat, from wealthy
landowners to poor indentured servants. These people gave Montserrat its now familiar name "The Emerald Isle of the
Caribbean," and several aspects of the island's heritage are attributed to the Irish. These include place names, surnames,
the local accent (supposedly similar to an Irish brogue), and perhaps certain cultural and food items. The governing
power, however, was England, with some short periods when the French took over. The wars between the European
countries were at their height, and these spilled over to the Caribbean. Remnants of fortifications with canons remind us of
these times, although some of these are now inaccessible in the volcanic area. Tobacco was one of Montserrat's principal
early crops, but was soon replaced by sugar. From the mid-1600s until 1834 came the tragic period of slavery, when
thousands of Africans were shipped to the Caribbean to work on the booming sugar plantations. These people lived and
perished on the sugar estates, enduring the harshest of conditions while they boosted the economy of the "mother
country." They were the ancestors of the majority of Montserrat's present-day inhabitants. There was one documented
slave uprising in 1768. St. Patrick's Day was chosen because landowners would be distracted with the celebrations.
Although unsuccessful the rebellion is significant, since it underlined the desire of the population to strive for freedom. It is
commemorated every year on St. Patrick's Day with a good humoured week of colorful activities, which also highlight the
Irish heritage. Slavery was abolished in 1834, but it would be many years before the population was able to shake off the
legacy of poverty and deprivation. During the early days of this century, cotton was the main crop. The rise of the trade
union movement in the 1940s and '50s paved the way to universal suffrage and the modern political and social structure
seen today. The island remains a British Overseas Territory, with a British governor and a locally elected government.
In 1989 modern comfort was disrupted when Hurricane Hugo struck, ripping roofs off buildings, gutting homes and
ruining the infrastructure. It took several years to repair this damage. By 1995, a new state-of-the-art hospital was built,
as well as government headquarters, legislative council, roads and other infrastructure. People had finally rebuilt their
homes. But most of this effort and expense was to come to nothing. As if to add insult to injury, the volcano in the
southern mountains became active in 1995, reaching its height in 1997 when Plymouth (the capital), as well as all southern
and eastern villages, was destroyed. Residents of these areas were relocated to the north, while many migrated to Britain
and elsewhere, more than halving the population.
Source: UK Holiday Guide
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Severe volcanic activity, which began in July 1995, has put a damper on this small, open economy. A catastrophic
eruption in June 1997 closed the airports and seaports, causing further economic and social dislocation. Two-thirds of
the 12,000 inhabitants fled the island. Some began to return in 1998 but lack of housing limited the number. The
agriculture sector continued to be affected by the lack of suitable land for farming and the destruction of crops.
Prospects for the economy depend largely on developments in relation to the volcanic activity and on public sector
construction activity. The UK has launched a three-year $122.8 million aid program to help reconstruct the economy.
Half of the island is expected to remain uninhabitable for another decade.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Montserrat)
eruption in June 1997 closed the airports and seaports, causing further economic and social dislocation. Two-thirds of
the 12,000 inhabitants fled the island. Some began to return in 1998 but lack of housing limited the number. The
agriculture sector continued to be affected by the lack of suitable land for farming and the destruction of crops.
Prospects for the economy depend largely on developments in relation to the volcanic activity and on public sector
construction activity. The UK has launched a three-year $122.8 million aid program to help reconstruct the economy.
Half of the island is expected to remain uninhabitable for another decade.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Montserrat)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
Politics of Montserrat takes place in a framework of a parliamentary representative democratic dependency, whereby
the Chief Minister is the head of government, and of a multi-party system. Montserrat is an internally self-governing
overseas territory of the United Kingdom. The United Nations Committee on Decolonization includes Montserrat on
the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative
power is vested in both the government and the Legislative Council. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and
the legislature. Military defence is the responsibility of the United Kingdom.
The governor is appointed by the monarch. The chief minister is appointed by the governor from among the members
of the Legislative Council. His cabinet, the Executive Council, is appointed by the governor from among the elected
members of the Legislative Council and consists also of the Executive Council of the governor, the attorney general,
and the finance secretary. General elections were held in Montserrat on 8 September 2009, two years earlier than
constitutionally necessary. The Movement for Change and Prosperity gained a parliamentary majority with six of nine
seats, while the outgoing Chief Minister Lowell Lewis (formerly Montserrat Democratic Party, running as an
independent) and two other independents won the other seats. Reuben Meade (MCAP) was subsequently sworn in as
Chief Minister on 10 September 2009.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Montserrat
the Chief Minister is the head of government, and of a multi-party system. Montserrat is an internally self-governing
overseas territory of the United Kingdom. The United Nations Committee on Decolonization includes Montserrat on
the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative
power is vested in both the government and the Legislative Council. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and
the legislature. Military defence is the responsibility of the United Kingdom.
The governor is appointed by the monarch. The chief minister is appointed by the governor from among the members
of the Legislative Council. His cabinet, the Executive Council, is appointed by the governor from among the elected
members of the Legislative Council and consists also of the Executive Council of the governor, the attorney general,
and the finance secretary. General elections were held in Montserrat on 8 September 2009, two years earlier than
constitutionally necessary. The Movement for Change and Prosperity gained a parliamentary majority with six of nine
seats, while the outgoing Chief Minister Lowell Lewis (formerly Montserrat Democratic Party, running as an
independent) and two other independents won the other seats. Reuben Meade (MCAP) was subsequently sworn in as
Chief Minister on 10 September 2009.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Montserrat
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
None reported.
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Transshipment point for South American narcotics destined for the US and Europe
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
Montserrat
Country Specific Information
November 16, 2009
Montserrat is a British overseas territory and part of the British West Indies. The island rises in a series of mountain slopes to a
high point of over 3,000 feet at the Soufriere Volcano in the exclusion zone. Montserrat is a highly active volcanic island. The
Government of Montserrat has issued several recent proclamations and warnings urging residents and visitors to be vigilant and to
be prepared to move at short notice. It last erupted in January 2009, requiring the large-scale evacuation of residents. Since that
evacuation, residents have returned to their homes. On October 4, 2009, a series of eruptions began, but no one has been required
to evacuate as of yet.
Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Montserrat. Anyone who does not appear to be in
good health may be required to undergo a medical exam (including HIV test) prior to being granted or denied entry. Please verify
this information with the Embassy of the United Kingdom before you travel.
Since 1995, ongoing volcanic activity in the south of the island has led to the evacuation and relocation of residents of the so called
‘exclusion zone'. Additionally, access to all areas on the southern flanks of the Belham Valley east of the Belham Bridge and areas
south is prohibited, as is south of Jack Boy Hill to Bramble Airport and beyond. The most recent evacuation took place in January
2009. Additional evacuations may occur when volcanic activity increases. Because the volcano is still active and dangerous,
access to the southern part of the island is restricted. Persons entering restricted areas without authorization are subject to fine
and/or imprisonment.
Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Montserrat laws,
even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in
Montserrat are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with
children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.
Click here to read more »
Country Specific Information
November 16, 2009
Montserrat is a British overseas territory and part of the British West Indies. The island rises in a series of mountain slopes to a
high point of over 3,000 feet at the Soufriere Volcano in the exclusion zone. Montserrat is a highly active volcanic island. The
Government of Montserrat has issued several recent proclamations and warnings urging residents and visitors to be vigilant and to
be prepared to move at short notice. It last erupted in January 2009, requiring the large-scale evacuation of residents. Since that
evacuation, residents have returned to their homes. On October 4, 2009, a series of eruptions began, but no one has been required
to evacuate as of yet.
Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Montserrat. Anyone who does not appear to be in
good health may be required to undergo a medical exam (including HIV test) prior to being granted or denied entry. Please verify
this information with the Embassy of the United Kingdom before you travel.
Since 1995, ongoing volcanic activity in the south of the island has led to the evacuation and relocation of residents of the so called
‘exclusion zone'. Additionally, access to all areas on the southern flanks of the Belham Valley east of the Belham Bridge and areas
south is prohibited, as is south of Jack Boy Hill to Bramble Airport and beyond. The most recent evacuation took place in January
2009. Additional evacuations may occur when volcanic activity increases. Because the volcano is still active and dangerous,
access to the southern part of the island is restricted. Persons entering restricted areas without authorization are subject to fine
and/or imprisonment.
Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Montserrat laws,
even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in
Montserrat are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with
children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.
Click here to read more »
What the United Nations Can Do to Assist Non-Self-Governing Territories
Updated 1 May 2009
Under Article 73 e of the Charter of the United Nations, the administering Powers of the Non-Self-Governing Territories have the
primary obligation to promote the well-being of the inhabitants of these Territories. The administering Powers are also encouraged
to cooperate with the United Nations and other associated international bodies in this endeavour, when and where appropriate.
The UNICEF Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean covers several islands, including three Non-Self-Governing Territories:
British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
In Montserrat and the British Virgin Islands, UNICEF is working to raise awareness about child abuse. As part of the overall
strategy to engage key professionals on issues pertaining to children’s rights, UNICEF conducted a workshop in the field of child
welfare for teachers in Montserrat that focused on children’s rights.
Through its Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) project established in 2002, UNDP has provided Anguilla
with assistance in financial sector supervision and development of risk management guidelines. It also assists Montserrat through
the project “Disaster Mitigation, Capacity-building and Institutional Strengthening in Support of Montserrat’s Post-Emergency
Resettlement Programme”. UNDP provides non-project support to a number of other initiatives and activities in the Non-Self-
Governing Territories.
Click here to read more »
Updated 1 May 2009
Under Article 73 e of the Charter of the United Nations, the administering Powers of the Non-Self-Governing Territories have the
primary obligation to promote the well-being of the inhabitants of these Territories. The administering Powers are also encouraged
to cooperate with the United Nations and other associated international bodies in this endeavour, when and where appropriate.
The UNICEF Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean covers several islands, including three Non-Self-Governing Territories:
British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
In Montserrat and the British Virgin Islands, UNICEF is working to raise awareness about child abuse. As part of the overall
strategy to engage key professionals on issues pertaining to children’s rights, UNICEF conducted a workshop in the field of child
welfare for teachers in Montserrat that focused on children’s rights.
Through its Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) project established in 2002, UNDP has provided Anguilla
with assistance in financial sector supervision and development of risk management guidelines. It also assists Montserrat through
the project “Disaster Mitigation, Capacity-building and Institutional Strengthening in Support of Montserrat’s Post-Emergency
Resettlement Programme”. UNDP provides non-project support to a number of other initiatives and activities in the Non-Self-
Governing Territories.
Click here to read more »
No Reports from Freedom House mentioning Montserrat after exhaustive search of their database. Please forward any
information you may have regarding Freedom House efforts on behalf of Montserrat to the Pax Gaea World Report
editor at the link below
Contact the editor »
information you may have regarding Freedom House efforts on behalf of Montserrat to the Pax Gaea World Report
editor at the link below
Contact the editor »
Summit of the Americas fails to address human rights
20 April 2009
The fifth Summit of the Americas has failed to recognize that human rights must be placed at the centre of efforts to confront the
many fundamental challenges facing the region.
Governments from every country in the Americas, except for Cuba, took part in the four-yearly meeting held in Port of Spain,
Trinidad and Tobago, between 17 and 19 April.
The 34 heads of state and government discussed the Summit's three principal themes: human prosperity, energy security and
environmental sustainability.
The Declaration of Commitment of Port of Spain was adopted by consensus at the close of the Summit on 19 April. Based on the
three themes, the Declaration fails to lay out a clear human rights framework for progress in these areas.
A number of governments, including Venezuela, Bolivia, Nicaragua and Honduras, indicated that they were not prepared to formally
sign the Declaration. Leaders agreed to instead adopt it by consensus and have Trinidadian Prime Minister Manning sign on behalf
of all leaders.
The governments that had registered objections did not feel that the Declaration deals adequately with the current global economic
crisis. They also wanted to see strong references to the issue of Cuba's reintegration into Organization of American States (OAS)
and the lifting of the US embargo against Cuba.
Amnesty International delegates at the Summit urged the governments of the region to make a firm commitment to ensuring that all
measures taken in response to the current global economic crisis fully conform to their human rights obligations. But the
recognition in the Declaration of the responsibility governments have to address the crisis does not acknowledge human rights at all.
"At a time of global economic turmoil and with a new spirit of compromise in the air between the government of US President
Barrack Obama and other governments in the Americas this Summit offered an unparalleled opportunity to lay out a strong human
rights vision for the Americas," said Alex Neve, Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada, who was part of the Amnesty
International delegation at the Summit. "Instead, human rights have once again been pushed to the back."
Click here to read more »
20 April 2009
The fifth Summit of the Americas has failed to recognize that human rights must be placed at the centre of efforts to confront the
many fundamental challenges facing the region.
Governments from every country in the Americas, except for Cuba, took part in the four-yearly meeting held in Port of Spain,
Trinidad and Tobago, between 17 and 19 April.
The 34 heads of state and government discussed the Summit's three principal themes: human prosperity, energy security and
environmental sustainability.
The Declaration of Commitment of Port of Spain was adopted by consensus at the close of the Summit on 19 April. Based on the
three themes, the Declaration fails to lay out a clear human rights framework for progress in these areas.
A number of governments, including Venezuela, Bolivia, Nicaragua and Honduras, indicated that they were not prepared to formally
sign the Declaration. Leaders agreed to instead adopt it by consensus and have Trinidadian Prime Minister Manning sign on behalf
of all leaders.
The governments that had registered objections did not feel that the Declaration deals adequately with the current global economic
crisis. They also wanted to see strong references to the issue of Cuba's reintegration into Organization of American States (OAS)
and the lifting of the US embargo against Cuba.
Amnesty International delegates at the Summit urged the governments of the region to make a firm commitment to ensuring that all
measures taken in response to the current global economic crisis fully conform to their human rights obligations. But the
recognition in the Declaration of the responsibility governments have to address the crisis does not acknowledge human rights at all.
"At a time of global economic turmoil and with a new spirit of compromise in the air between the government of US President
Barrack Obama and other governments in the Americas this Summit offered an unparalleled opportunity to lay out a strong human
rights vision for the Americas," said Alex Neve, Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada, who was part of the Amnesty
International delegation at the Summit. "Instead, human rights have once again been pushed to the back."
Click here to read more »
Human Rights Watch Commentary On Australia's Temporary Protection Visas For Refugees
I. Temporary Status is Inappropriate for Fully Adjudicated Refugees
B. Temporary Protection Should Have a Finite Duration, Eventually Allowing for a More Secure Status
In the United States, temporary protected status is granted to nationals of designated countries who are unable to return home
because of an ongoing armed conflict, an environmental disaster or some other extraordinary and temporary situation. Again, it is a
means of immediately granting to nationals of designated countries (even those found to be unlawfully present in the U.S.) a set of
rights, including the right to work and a limited right to travel outside of the United States. Individuals who are unable to make out a
claim for refugee status can still be granted temporary protected status, and all individuals eligible can be granted temporary
protected status before they have their asylum claims processed. In other words, temporary protected status in no way excludes a
later or simultaneous application for permanent refugee protection. As of February 2003, countries (or parts thereof) designated
under temporary protected status included: Angola, Burundi, El Salvador, Honduras, Liberia, Montserrat, Nicaragua, Sierra Leone,
Somalia and Sudan. Individuals who have been rejected from refugee status and who have held temporary protected status for
many years may be able to adjust their status to enjoy permanent residence under other provisions of U.S. law.
Click here to read more »
I. Temporary Status is Inappropriate for Fully Adjudicated Refugees
B. Temporary Protection Should Have a Finite Duration, Eventually Allowing for a More Secure Status
In the United States, temporary protected status is granted to nationals of designated countries who are unable to return home
because of an ongoing armed conflict, an environmental disaster or some other extraordinary and temporary situation. Again, it is a
means of immediately granting to nationals of designated countries (even those found to be unlawfully present in the U.S.) a set of
rights, including the right to work and a limited right to travel outside of the United States. Individuals who are unable to make out a
claim for refugee status can still be granted temporary protected status, and all individuals eligible can be granted temporary
protected status before they have their asylum claims processed. In other words, temporary protected status in no way excludes a
later or simultaneous application for permanent refugee protection. As of February 2003, countries (or parts thereof) designated
under temporary protected status included: Angola, Burundi, El Salvador, Honduras, Liberia, Montserrat, Nicaragua, Sierra Leone,
Somalia and Sudan. Individuals who have been rejected from refugee status and who have held temporary protected status for
many years may be able to adjust their status to enjoy permanent residence under other provisions of U.S. law.
Click here to read more »
Worker’s Week ends with strong push for outsourcing and employee initiatives
BRADES, Montserrat (May 4, 2010)
Over one hundred public and private sector workers marched from Davy Hill to the Cultural Centre in Little Bay on Monday to
mark International Labour Day and the closing of Worker’s Week 2010.
The marchers wore different-coloured T-shirts bearing the theme for the week: “Workers Embracing Social and Economic
Advancement in a Changing World.”
After the parade, there were speeches by Government Ministers and Trade Unionists, followed by a fashion exhibition at the
Cultural Centre.
The March and rally brought the curtains down on workers week organized by the Department of Labour in conjunction with
labour organizations on island.
Speaking at the rally, the Honourable Chief Minister Rueben Meade defended his government’s privatization programme. He pointed
to the successful outsourcing of the garbage services and said a similar success could be achieved in other areas. The chief
minister challenged employees to initiate business proposals to acquire the contracts for services which have been earmarked for
outsourcing including the tractor and cleaning services, rather than sit in fear they will be made redundant.
The leader of government said he fully endorsed the statement made by the President of the Montserrat Union of Teachers in which
Mrs. Hyacinth Bramble Browne said the world was changing and education was the only sure fire solution for job insecurity. She
encouraged the government to focus their attention on building the education sector and to create an environment for lifelong
learning.
The union president also said employers must be willing to give their workers flexible schedules to allow them to pursue higher
education as the long term benefits would be to the business owners’ as well.
President of the Civil Service Association, Mr. Paul Lewis questioned government’s decision to extend the age of retirement from
55 to 65 at the same time it is planning to decrease its civil service.
The Honourable Minister with responsibility for Labour Mr. Charles Kirnon in addressing the workers called for appropriate
measures to be put in place to ensure decent work for all employees. Minister Kirnon said that employers must be willing to pay
above the bare minimum and allow employees to share in the profit of the companies. He encouraged workers to also give a hard
day’s work for a day’s pay and to be aware of the laws that affect their rights.
The labour minister called for defunct worker’s unions to get back in action and said it was not the responsibility of the department
to organize a union on behalf of the workers. He said, the employees must initiate the process and also be willing to pay the dues as
members of the unions.
This was the fifth year the Worker’s Week has been celebrated on Montserrat. The week of activities included workshops on
occupational safety, radio discussions on investment opportunities for workers and Employee Appreciation Day.
Click here to read more »
BRADES, Montserrat (May 4, 2010)
Over one hundred public and private sector workers marched from Davy Hill to the Cultural Centre in Little Bay on Monday to
mark International Labour Day and the closing of Worker’s Week 2010.
The marchers wore different-coloured T-shirts bearing the theme for the week: “Workers Embracing Social and Economic
Advancement in a Changing World.”
After the parade, there were speeches by Government Ministers and Trade Unionists, followed by a fashion exhibition at the
Cultural Centre.
The March and rally brought the curtains down on workers week organized by the Department of Labour in conjunction with
labour organizations on island.
Speaking at the rally, the Honourable Chief Minister Rueben Meade defended his government’s privatization programme. He pointed
to the successful outsourcing of the garbage services and said a similar success could be achieved in other areas. The chief
minister challenged employees to initiate business proposals to acquire the contracts for services which have been earmarked for
outsourcing including the tractor and cleaning services, rather than sit in fear they will be made redundant.
The leader of government said he fully endorsed the statement made by the President of the Montserrat Union of Teachers in which
Mrs. Hyacinth Bramble Browne said the world was changing and education was the only sure fire solution for job insecurity. She
encouraged the government to focus their attention on building the education sector and to create an environment for lifelong
learning.
The union president also said employers must be willing to give their workers flexible schedules to allow them to pursue higher
education as the long term benefits would be to the business owners’ as well.
President of the Civil Service Association, Mr. Paul Lewis questioned government’s decision to extend the age of retirement from
55 to 65 at the same time it is planning to decrease its civil service.
The Honourable Minister with responsibility for Labour Mr. Charles Kirnon in addressing the workers called for appropriate
measures to be put in place to ensure decent work for all employees. Minister Kirnon said that employers must be willing to pay
above the bare minimum and allow employees to share in the profit of the companies. He encouraged workers to also give a hard
day’s work for a day’s pay and to be aware of the laws that affect their rights.
The labour minister called for defunct worker’s unions to get back in action and said it was not the responsibility of the department
to organize a union on behalf of the workers. He said, the employees must initiate the process and also be willing to pay the dues as
members of the unions.
This was the fifth year the Worker’s Week has been celebrated on Montserrat. The week of activities included workshops on
occupational safety, radio discussions on investment opportunities for workers and Employee Appreciation Day.
Click here to read more »
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTION FOR MONTSERRAT
01 January 2008
1. Introduction
Montserrat is one of fourteen Overseas Territories of the United Kingdom.
In 2004 the Executive Council authorised the establishment of a Human Rights Reporting Committee (HRRC) for the Territory. The
HRRC was established to assist the Government of Montserrat with its reporting obligations under the various United Nations
international human rights instruments which extend to the Territory. In addition the HRRC was also conferred with the mandate to
monitor the implementation of the human rights instruments within the Territory and advise the Government regarding any
shortcomings and make suggestions for remedying such shortcomings. The HRRC was also to assist in the establishment of a
Human Rights Commission for Montserrat.
In November 2005 a consultant was retained to advise the HRRC on the establishment of a human rights public education strategy
for Montserrat with the view towards the drafting of a Human Rights Commission Act for the Territory. A Report was prepared by
the consultant and submitted in February 2006.
In November 2006 the HRRC commissioned a consultant to visit Montserrat in order to meet with target groups and hold public
meetings on the status of human rights in the Territory, with a view to providing direction to the HRRC on the establishment of a
Human Rights Commission for Montserrat. Following these consultations it was decided that a detailed report on the establishment
of a human rights commission for Montserrat would be prepared. The report would set out the issues to be addressed in the
enabling legislation, with a view to holding further discussions with stakeholders and more comprehensive and focused public
consultation. Draft legislation would then be prepared for the creation and operation of the Montserrat Human Rights Commission.
2. The Way Forward
The purpose of this Report is to set out the options available for the creation of a NHRI for Montserrat and to direct attention to
some of the key issues that will need to be determined and addressed in the enabling legislation.
The Report has been compiled on the basis United Nations and Commonwealth best practice in the creation of NHRIs. The Report
has been structured to reflect the provisions that will have to be included in any enabling legislation.
The next stage will be to focus public attention towards these key issues and facilitate debate as to how options may be determined.
In this respect the Human Rights Reporting Committee may act as the steering committee. The steering committee will determine
how the public consultation element of the project will take place. For example it may be that key issues will be discussed and
determined by the steering committee in consultations with key stakeholders and then put to the public, and in effect defended, at a
series of public meetings. Alternatively public meetings could be held to discuss the Report before any decisions are taken by the
steering committee or discussions held with stakeholders.
Following focussed public consultation and the discussion of issues with relevant stakeholders the steering committee should be in
a position to approve a drafting scheme which will form the basis for the proposed legislation and facilitate the speedy production
of a draft Bill. The draft Bill may then be published and further public comment
Click here to read more »
01 January 2008
1. Introduction
Montserrat is one of fourteen Overseas Territories of the United Kingdom.
In 2004 the Executive Council authorised the establishment of a Human Rights Reporting Committee (HRRC) for the Territory. The
HRRC was established to assist the Government of Montserrat with its reporting obligations under the various United Nations
international human rights instruments which extend to the Territory. In addition the HRRC was also conferred with the mandate to
monitor the implementation of the human rights instruments within the Territory and advise the Government regarding any
shortcomings and make suggestions for remedying such shortcomings. The HRRC was also to assist in the establishment of a
Human Rights Commission for Montserrat.
In November 2005 a consultant was retained to advise the HRRC on the establishment of a human rights public education strategy
for Montserrat with the view towards the drafting of a Human Rights Commission Act for the Territory. A Report was prepared by
the consultant and submitted in February 2006.
In November 2006 the HRRC commissioned a consultant to visit Montserrat in order to meet with target groups and hold public
meetings on the status of human rights in the Territory, with a view to providing direction to the HRRC on the establishment of a
Human Rights Commission for Montserrat. Following these consultations it was decided that a detailed report on the establishment
of a human rights commission for Montserrat would be prepared. The report would set out the issues to be addressed in the
enabling legislation, with a view to holding further discussions with stakeholders and more comprehensive and focused public
consultation. Draft legislation would then be prepared for the creation and operation of the Montserrat Human Rights Commission.
2. The Way Forward
The purpose of this Report is to set out the options available for the creation of a NHRI for Montserrat and to direct attention to
some of the key issues that will need to be determined and addressed in the enabling legislation.
The Report has been compiled on the basis United Nations and Commonwealth best practice in the creation of NHRIs. The Report
has been structured to reflect the provisions that will have to be included in any enabling legislation.
The next stage will be to focus public attention towards these key issues and facilitate debate as to how options may be determined.
In this respect the Human Rights Reporting Committee may act as the steering committee. The steering committee will determine
how the public consultation element of the project will take place. For example it may be that key issues will be discussed and
determined by the steering committee in consultations with key stakeholders and then put to the public, and in effect defended, at a
series of public meetings. Alternatively public meetings could be held to discuss the Report before any decisions are taken by the
steering committee or discussions held with stakeholders.
Following focussed public consultation and the discussion of issues with relevant stakeholders the steering committee should be in
a position to approve a drafting scheme which will form the basis for the proposed legislation and facilitate the speedy production
of a draft Bill. The draft Bill may then be published and further public comment
Click here to read more »
Constitution 2010: The Issue Of The Governor's Powers
Written by Jeevan Robinson
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
What people have been campaigning for is that the updated constitution 2010 be for the people and by the people. Now is our
opportunity to make substantial impact via suggestions as to what the final draft will comprise of.
MNI Alive however would like to recognise the stellar efforts of persons like Don Romeo, Adrian & Natalie Edgecombe, also Basil
Chambers with those very timely musical selections, particularly songs like 'Constitution' by Pink Panther and others. Also, we all
must recognise other persons who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the government see sense and do what was right.
What MNI Alive along with other concerned Montserratians plan to undertake going forward is two pronged. A group of us who
are outside of Montserrat that are concerned about this process will be coming together to form an alliance that will review with
proper legal minds in tow who are versed on constitutional issues, the elements that we find contentious. This committee will be
formed very shortly. Our views will be communicated both here on MNI Alive and also to the Office of The Chief Minister.
The second aspect of our engagement on this Constitution issue is to bring here on MNI Alive, varying sections of the document so
that you, the global Montserrat audience, can make your input. We ask kindly that you seek to share your thoughts on this as
widely as possible and as we move from section to section. We will collate your views and pass them on to the required parties.
Today, I want us to start by looking at the issue of the Governor’s powers.
Section 21 (3) says, subject to this Constitution and any law by which any functions are conferred on the Governor, the Governor
shall perform all his or her functions (including functions which are expressed by this Constitution to be exercisable in his or her
discretion or in his or her judgement) according to such instructions, if any, as may be given to him or her by Her Majesty; but the
question whether or not the Governor has in any matter complied with any such instructions shall not be enquired into by any court.
MNI Alive Comment: How undemocratic is this and where is the relationship of equals? Furthermore what recourse does the
Constitution provide if the citizenry is unhappy with the Governors decisions? No such platform is laid out in this current draft.
Click here to read more »
Written by Jeevan Robinson
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
What people have been campaigning for is that the updated constitution 2010 be for the people and by the people. Now is our
opportunity to make substantial impact via suggestions as to what the final draft will comprise of.
MNI Alive however would like to recognise the stellar efforts of persons like Don Romeo, Adrian & Natalie Edgecombe, also Basil
Chambers with those very timely musical selections, particularly songs like 'Constitution' by Pink Panther and others. Also, we all
must recognise other persons who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the government see sense and do what was right.
What MNI Alive along with other concerned Montserratians plan to undertake going forward is two pronged. A group of us who
are outside of Montserrat that are concerned about this process will be coming together to form an alliance that will review with
proper legal minds in tow who are versed on constitutional issues, the elements that we find contentious. This committee will be
formed very shortly. Our views will be communicated both here on MNI Alive and also to the Office of The Chief Minister.
The second aspect of our engagement on this Constitution issue is to bring here on MNI Alive, varying sections of the document so
that you, the global Montserrat audience, can make your input. We ask kindly that you seek to share your thoughts on this as
widely as possible and as we move from section to section. We will collate your views and pass them on to the required parties.
Today, I want us to start by looking at the issue of the Governor’s powers.
Section 21 (3) says, subject to this Constitution and any law by which any functions are conferred on the Governor, the Governor
shall perform all his or her functions (including functions which are expressed by this Constitution to be exercisable in his or her
discretion or in his or her judgement) according to such instructions, if any, as may be given to him or her by Her Majesty; but the
question whether or not the Governor has in any matter complied with any such instructions shall not be enquired into by any court.
MNI Alive Comment: How undemocratic is this and where is the relationship of equals? Furthermore what recourse does the
Constitution provide if the citizenry is unhappy with the Governors decisions? No such platform is laid out in this current draft.
Click here to read more »
Represented by
Peter A. Waterworth
Governor since 27 July 2007
Peter A. Waterworth
Governor since 27 July 2007
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| INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS) |
None reported.
