For more than three decades, Jules Vasquez has embodied the highest ideals of investigative journalism in the Caribbean. As News Director of 7News Belize, he has built a reputation for uncompromising reporting, relentless questioning of those in authority, and an unwavering commitment to the public’s right to know. His work has made him one of the region’s most recognizable and courageous defenders of media freedom.

In a media landscape where political and commercial pressures often discourage aggressive investigative reporting, Vasquez consistently demonstrates that journalism’s first duty is to the public interest. Successive governments, regardless of political affiliation, have faced his rigorous scrutiny. This rare independence has earned him widespread respect as an equal-opportunity investigative journalist whose loyalty is neither to political parties nor powerful interests, but to truth and accountability.

His career has been marked by extraordinary courage. Whether being forcibly removed from Parliament while defending journalists’ right to report legislative proceedings, enduring tear gas while covering anti-government demonstrations, confronting political leaders with difficult questions, or facing repeated personal attacks from public officials, Vasquez has never retreated from his responsibility to hold power accountable. Rather than being intimidated by pressure, he repeatedly turns attempts to silence him into powerful affirmations of the importance of a free press.

His investigative reporting has delivered tangible results for Belizean society. Exposés by 7News have contributed to the dismissal of Cabinet ministers, prompted significant changes in public policy, and forced governments to reverse controversial decisions. Most recently, his extensive investigations into multimillion-dollar airport security contracts raised serious questions about transparency, procurement practices, and conflicts of interest, compelling public responses from senior government officials. 

Over the past year his relentless reporting brought to light the state-sponsored abduction and illegal rendition of citizen Joseph Budna, exposing a massive police cover-up that reached the upper echelons of the political directorate. Using Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, he unmasked multi-million-dollar fraudulent airport security contracts and uncovered cartel-linked corruption within the Corozal Free Zone. He thus demonstrates journalism’s essential role in exposing abuse of authority and demanding institutional accountability.

Despite becoming the target of multiple Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), withdrawal of government advertising, and efforts to disrupt his newsroom’s operations, Vasquez has remained steadfast. Rather than allowing legal or economic pressure to silence independent journalism, he has consistently defended the principle that a free press must never be intimidated into submission.

The impact of his work has been recognised through repeated honours, including consecutive University of Belize Prizes for Investigative Journalism awarded to 7News. His reporting has strengthened public accountability and reinforced confidence in independent journalism as an essential pillar of democracy.

For his exceptional courage, unwavering independence, and lifelong commitment to defending the public’s right to know, Jules Vasquez is a most deserving nominee for the CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Award.

The post CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Nominee – Jules Vasquez appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

May 1, 2026

For Immediate Release

PRESS RELEASE – World Broadcasting Unions Celebrates World Press Freedom Day

TORONTO, ON — May 1, 2026 — The News Committee of the World Broadcasting Unions (WBU) is celebrating World Press Freedom Day, May 3, 2026, at an inflection point. Journalists across the world are reporting amid unprecedented levels of danger and fake news distribution. From every corner of the world, journalists continue to risk their lives to ensure the world has access to verified, unbiased information.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) continue to report on the increasing number of journalists killed in countries around the globe, especially in areas of conflict. In addition, several hundred journalists are currently being detained worldwide in violation of their civil rights and mission to report on global affairs.

The service journalists deliver is essential to the bedrock of democracy, a safeguard against abuse of power and a vital force for diversity, dialogue and human rights. But artificial intelligence poses an added threat to the transparency, accuracy and accountability that readers, listeners and viewers expect from a free press. The World Broadcasting Unions (WBU) acknowledge this threat and call upon media outlets worldwide to stand up for news integrity in the age of AI by demanding AI platforms commit to accuracy and attribution in using media content, obtain media companies’ permission to use their content and develop standards of safety and transparency.

WBU supports the five principles for responsible use of news by AI set out by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) that protect the integrity of news. For more on these principles, visit https://www.newsintegrity.org/home.

Now is the time for all stakeholders to join the World Broadcasting Unions in standing as a bulwark against the insidious influence of misinformation and disinformation and in defence of facts. We urge responsible use of artificial intelligence and issue a clarion call for big tech companies to deepen their collaboration with the News Integrity initiative.

We are committed to playing our part in ensuring that AI is used as a vehicle for propagating accurate information, as part of an information ecosystem anchored by trust in news. We urge consumers of content around the world to scrupulously assess the source of the news they receive, to avoid becoming unsuspecting victims of the purveyors of disinformation. On this World Press Freedom Day, we reflect on the time-honoured tenets of our field: accuracy, fairness and fearlessness and are determined to ensure they are immutable in a world of rapid technological change.

It is our commitment to the theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day: “Shaping a Future at Peace.”

** ASBU abstains from this statement.

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Held annually on the eve of the Chinese New Year, the Spring Festival Gala — often referred to as “Chunwan” — has been a longstanding television tradition in China for more than 40 years. It forms part of wider Lunar New Year observances centred on family reunion and cultural reflection.

This year’s programme featured a mix of music, dance, comedy, opera, martial arts and acrobatics, alongside contemporary stage production elements. Several performances incorporated cross-cultural choreography and modern staging techniques, reflecting both traditional artistic forms and current creative trends.

Advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR) and robotics, were integrated into aspects of the production. In one segment, humanoid robots performed choreographed martial arts routines, highlighting developments in stage presentation and digital integration.

Through CCTV+’s international broadcast network and partnerships with media organisations worldwide, the gala was made accessible to audiences beyond China, supporting cross-border cultural exchange.

CBU members and partners interested in learning more about the 2026 Spring Festival Gala can access additional information and highlights via the official English-language portal:

For more coverage on the gala, visit the CCTV+ English website at https://english.cctv.com/special/2026springfestivalgala/

The post CMG 2026 Spring Festival Gala Broadcast Globally Through CCTV+ appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

A major step forward in global media resilience has arrived. UNESCO has officially released the Model Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan for Media Institutions – the first comprehensive blueprint designed to help media organisations strengthen their internal readiness for climate-related emergencies and disasters, while enhancing their role in supporting community resilience.

View the plan at unesco.org

A First-of-Its-Kind Framework for Media Worldwide

Launched on 26 November 2025 during the 9th ABU Media Summit on Climate Action and Disaster Prevention in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the model plan represents an unprecedented global effort to elevate disaster preparedness within the media sector.

Developed in partnership with the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) and shaped by contributions from media professionals and disaster management experts worldwide, the plan offers a practical and adaptable framework for media institutions of all sizes and across all regions. It provides guidance on strengthening organisational readiness, safeguarding personnel and infrastructure, and ensuring that media outlets can continue delivering critical information before, during, and after a crisis.

 

Why This Matters Now

The launch comes at a time when the scale and cost of disasters continue to rise dramatically:

•  USD 212.1 billion — Total Official Development Assistance provided by OECD DAC countries in 2024
• USD 320 billion — Estimated global losses from disasters in 2024 alone

These figures highlight the urgent need for stronger preparedness systems, especially within the media sector, which plays a central role in public communication, risk awareness, and community protection.

 

The Media’s Dual Role in Disaster Resilience

During periods of calm, media organisations help the public understand risks, build awareness, and foster preparedness.

When disaster strikes, however, the importance of the media becomes even more critical. Timely, accurate, and continuous information can save lives—but only if media houses themselves are equipped with the internal structures, training, and continuity plans needed to operate under extreme conditions.

UNESCO’s new model plan responds directly to this need, offering media leaders a structured pathway to strengthen resilience and uphold their essential public-service mandate during crises.

 

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If you create TV, radio, print, or digital content about children and young people in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, or you’re studying media and communications, you’re invited to learn about the new categories of the upcoming CBU Media Awards, sponsored by the UNICEF Office for the Eastern Caribbean Area.

There will be two opportunities to attend this presentation:

• In-person session (Barbados-based media professionals and media students): November 5  at the Courtyard by Marriott Barbados
• Online session: November 12 via Zoom

During these sessions, UNICEF experts and media trainers will share insights on the themed Awards — including eligibility and what the judges will be looking for.

To attend, register below to learn how your work  or media coursework and assignments could become an award-winning entry.

Registration Closed

Thank you for your interest, registration for this event is now closed for submissions.

The post CBU 37^th Media Awards – UNICEF Sponsored Categories Webinar appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

UNICEF Belize is pleased to advise that it has received a total of eighteen (18) entries for the UNICEF Belize supported categories of the 36^th CBU Media Awards. Consequently, only fifteen (15) are eligible for judging and are currently being reviewed by the Awards judges. Congratulations to those who have submitted entries!

UNICEF notes the breakdown of entries as:

• Child Rights Champion: Investigative Reporting – TV – six (6) entries of which one was ineligible since it was submitted by a media house based in Trinidad & Tobago
• Child Rights Champion: Elimination of Violence Against Children – TV – six (6) entries of which one was ineligible since it was submitted by a media house based in Trinidad & Tobago
• Child Rights Champion: Children Who Inspire Story – TV – six (6) entries of which one was ineligible since it was submitted by a media house based in Guyana.

Please stay tuned for notices on upcoming engagements coordinated by CBU and UNICEF Belize.  As we enter the second year of this partnership we will be planning an Editor’s Breakfast session for media houses and practitioners in Belize to share information and guidance for those who will submit entries for the 37^th edition of the CBU Media Awards.

UNICEF Belize looks forward to strengthening our partnership with the media and enhancing the media’s role to advocate for children and their families.

The post CBU And UNICEF Belize Collaborate for Special Television Media Awards appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

In an increasingly competitive and dynamic global marketplace, consumer sentiment has emerged as a critical factor in shaping business strategies, brand perception, and market positioning. Organizations operating in the Caribbean must leverage insights into consumer sentiment to refine their engagement strategies, enhance customer experiences, and maintain a competitive edge.

To facilitate a deeper understanding of this crucial subject, Media InSite will host an insightful webinar, focusing on the role of consumer sentiment in driving business success across the Caribbean.

The webinar will feature a panel of accomplished professionals, each bringing extensive expertise in marketing, media relations, and consumer insights. The distinguished speakers include:

• Sarah Inglefield – Head of Marketing and External Communication, ANSA McAL Limited
• Janelle David – Media and Stakeholder Relations Specialist, TSTT Limited
• Joel Moniquette – Sales and Marketing Manager, Media InSite Ltd.
• Kristee Kalisingh (Host) – Account Executive, Media InSite Ltd.

Register now to join the discussion on March 26 and gain valuable insights into leveraging consumer sentiment for success in the Caribbean market.

The post You’re Invited : Register for Media InSite’s FREE Webinar on Consumer Sentiment appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

The evolution of satellite technology continues to redefine global connectivity, and Eutelsat Group remains at the forefront of this transformation. Industry professionals and business leaders are invited to attend SATELLITE 2025, taking place from March 10-13, 2025, at The Westin Washington, D.C. City Center, to explore groundbreaking satellite solutions designed to enhance business operations worldwide.

Advancing Global Connectivity with Innovative Solutions

As the demand for seamless and resilient communication grows, businesses require sophisticated connectivity solutions that offer reliability, scalability, and efficiency. Eutelsat Group is pioneering the future of satellite communications with its advanced GEO-LEO hybrid solutions, providing:

• Comprehensive global coverage, ensuring robust and uninterrupted connectivity.
• Low-latency capabilities, facilitating real-time communication and enhanced user experiences.
• Scalable Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) solutions, enabling businesses to expand their service portfolios efficiently.

The Significance of SATELLITE 2025

As a premier industry event, SATELLITE 2025 presents a unique opportunity for professionals to:

• Gain valuable insights into the latest innovations shaping satellite communications.
• Engage with industry leaders and establish strategic partnerships.
• Discover how Eutelsat Group’s advanced connectivity solutions can optimize business operations and drive global progress.

Scheduling a Meeting with Eutelsat Group

Industry stakeholders interested in leveraging cutting-edge satellite solutions are encouraged to connect with the Eutelsat Group team during the event. Meetings can be scheduled to discuss tailored solutions that align with specific business requirements.

Click here to book a meeting

Attendees at SATELLITE 2025 will gain firsthand knowledge of the next chapter in global connectivity, with insights into how satellite technology is shaping the future of communication.

The post Experience the Future of Satellite Connectivity at SATELLITE 2025 appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

As Caribbean broadcasters prepare to attend the 2025 edition of NAB SHOW, from April 6-7, in Las Vegas, Nevada, CBU members will once again enjoy discounts and other special offers.

The benefits for active CBU members include a free exhibits pass, USD 100 off the Conference Pass, access to the invitation-only NAB Show International Reception, an exclusive guided show floor tour, as well as reserved access to the International Business Lounge.

For more information

Download our flyer on NAB Show 2025 to learn more about the benefits to CBU Members, or contact info@caribroadcastunion.org.

The post NAB Show 2025 Extends Benefits And Discounts To CBU Members appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

Mr. Madeira died on January 10, 2025 at the age of eighty (80) after a period of illness.

The first full-time Secretary General of the CBU, from 1981 – 82, he was inducted into the CBU Hall of Fame in 2000.  In part, the citation noted his “leadership by example, …courage and grace under fire and …personal sacrifices endured in the cause of journalistic integrity…”

A British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)-trained broadcaster and journalist he extended his considerable talent and experience to work not only in broadcast media in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean but also print media and public education management for more than five decades.

He is best remembered for his courage during the attempted coup of 1990 in Trinidad and Tobago in which he was a hostage at the national television service TTT.  The CBU citation reads in part,

“…you were the credible voice and face to which your compatriots turned for critical information and even with guns at your head, not only helped to calm the country but earned you the gratitude and the grudging respect of your captors.”

CBU President, Anthony Greene in offering his tribute noted that Mr. Madeira continued his support for the regional media sector not only as an active media manager, but also as a member of the CBU Media Hall of Fame Award panel from 2017 – 2020.  Mr Greene reflected as stated in the CBU citation that, “some of the initiatives he took when at the helm of the CBU Secretariat resonated in much that audiences value in radio and television decades later”.

The CBU Board of Directors, membership and Secretariat extend deepest sympathies to the Madeira family and his other dear ones.

A detailed career bio of Mr. Madeira can be found here on the CBU website.

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