You Better Belize It: CBU 55th Annual General Assembly Opens in Placencia

The Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) began its 55th Annual General Assembly on Monday, August 12, in Placencia. The event, which runs from August 11 to 14, is centred around the theme “Media and the Environment.”

CBU President Dr. Claire Grant addressed the attendees, highlighting the importance of media in climate change discussions. “The Caribbean Media sector has been grappling with major technological developments in recent years, and we have seen major steps at the regional and international level for the past 12 months,” Dr. Grant said. She emphasised the media’s role in community improvement, stating, “The Media exists for the region, it exists for the people. Without the people, there is no media. But, the media also understands its role in ensuring that people can grow, they can develop, they can be better than what they are. Our role is to make this community better and stronger.”

Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary General of CARICOM, was the event’s honoured guest speaker. She stressed the media’s role in scrutinising international efforts to combat carbon emissions and addressing the impacts on Small Island Developing States (SIDS). “As we seek to amplify our call for climate justice, the CARICOM secretariat is seeking to broaden its partnership with the regional media. You are ideally placed to present a platform to scientists, activists, and policymakers to speak directly to the public to package the impacts of climate change for public consumption and to counter misinformation,” Dr. Barnett said. 

Prime Minister Briceno, this year’s keynote speaker, highlighted the media’s impact on environmental issues. “From highlighting the impacts of plastic pollution in our oceans to showcasing innovative renewable energy projects, the media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and driving positive change,” he said. 

The CBU will enter its second day of events tonight, where awards will be presented to journalists and other members of the media industry. News 5 will be livestreaming the awards ceremony tonight on its Facebook and YouTube channels.