Regional Roundup: The Caribbean’s input to the US Presidential Debates

The US Presidential Debates are over. The countdown to Election Day has begun.  This national event has generated International attention and opinion.  What is the implication of the final outcome for the over 39 million people in the Caribbean region?

While the region may not be the subject of hotly debated Foreign Policy, West Indians are nevertheless engaged and ready to cast their imaginary ballots! Today’s post will take you the heart of the issues – as seen from the Caribbean citizen’s perspective. This will be achieved through visits to the Regional Dailies. I hope you’re prepared for the virtual flight!

Guyana: Coming US Elections and CARICOM

This Op-ed contribution looks at first impressions and hopes following the 2008 Election. It goes on to explore the rise of the Latin American States and their influence, Drug trafficking in the region, FTA and Inter-American relations.

Trinidad and Tobago: Is Obama or Romney better for the Caribbean?

An interesting piece that looks at the impact of US Policies on the Financial Services Sector in the Caribbean, particularly through the passing of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). It also visits Development aid, Drug trafficking, Cuba and Venezuela.

The US Election is everyone’s business

Jamaica: Time to man up in face of dwindling foreign aid

While not specific to the US, the contribution looks at the change in European policy and position, particularly as it impacts on the availability of Development aid dollars.

Cayman Islands: Peering into the Future of Cayman

Here one writer in the Cayman Islands explores how contraction of growth in the US has affected their tourism and financial services sector.

Turks & Caicos: Caribbean Finance Industry faces up to FATCA

This article gives further insight into the Financial Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)

Turks & Caicos: Rebound expected in financial services and real estate

This contribution takes a look at the other side, the alternative perspective – how the Turks & Caicos hopes to benefit from low interest rates being offered in US and Canadian Banks.

Without a doubt, the Caribbean is engaged and contemplating the outcome of this election. Guyana’s Stabroek News reported “US Debate overtakes Parliament” Members of Parliament moved to dismiss the sitting of the National Assembly earlier than scheduled in order to facilitate viewing of the final Debate. This decision attracted a wide range of opinion amongst the Guyanese public.

A busy day in the heart of Port of Spain, Trinidad

Two other hot topics are China and Women’s Rights – more than sufficient material for another post. For now I will direct your attention to fellow blogger Catrionakn who wrote an excellent post Rights Round up, which looks at Women’s Rights across the globe – amongst others. I also thank her for inspiring this post. It is always great sharing, engaging with and learning from my blogging community.

My final question to you, after all you’ve read, what do you think is in store for the Caribbean – US relations in the next four (4) years and which Candidate do you think will best champion our cause?

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