IIRToday
Celebrating Achievement
The Institute of International Relations extends its heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of 2024 on the successful completion of their academic programs On October 25, 2024, the Institute beamed with pride as twelve (12) of our students ascended the graduation stage, a momentous occasion that will be cherished They were met with enthusiastic applause and recognition as they received their degrees, which represent the energy, dedication, commitment, sacrifices, challenges, and perseverance that were integral to achieving their Post Graduate Diploma and M.Sc degrees.
o express our gratitude for eir commitment and effort, e Institute of International elations organized a modest aduation social to recognize ur students for their gnificant accomplishments his event allowed lecturers, ong with the families and iends of the graduates, to artake in the celebration of eir success
al Newsletter of the Institute of International Relations . Issue 18 . July - Decembe
Faculty members and students at the celebratory event held at the IIR on October 25, 2024.
Celebrating Achievement
As the students continue their life’s journey, they leave this path, moving forward to others filled with hope, excitement, adventure, discovery and growth. They chose to spend part of their journey with us here at The Institute and left us with a few parting words.
DIPLOMA
Karen Alexander
I am grateful to have completed the PGDip in International Relations and Global Studies program and would like to express my sincere appreciation to the lecturers and support staff who have guided me along the way. Your unwavering support, insights, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping my learning experience. I am thankful for the valuable knowledge and skills I have gained, and I know this accomplishment would not have been possible without your help Thank you for all that you have done!
Shantilly Ragoonan
M.Sc.
Donovan Cupid
I want to express my sincerest and utmost gratitude for the unwavering support you, the Institute of International Relations have provided throughout my academic career and, in particular, during my pursuit of a Master's degree in Global Studies Your guidance and mentorship have been invaluable in shaping my understanding of complex global issues and equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the field. The webinars and events I have had the privilege of attending have further enriched my learn broadened my perspectives.
This Master’s programme has been intellectually rewarding, expanding my understanding of complex global issues and refining my analytical skills The coursework has challenged me to think critically and develop wellrounded perspectives on political, economic, and social dynamics worldwide.
Katalia Cato
Celebrating Achievement
M.Sc.
As I reflect on my time in the MSc Global Studies program, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to explore my passion for Korean pop (K-Pop) and its influence on global culture. This journey has shown me that any topic, no matter how unconventional, can be the foundation for legitimate, impactful research This would not have been possible without the tremendous guidance and support from Dr Keron Niles who believed in my topic and its potential and my Korean Language teachers, Teddy Kim and Jamie Moon who reignited my interest in Korean culture.
The MSc Global Studies programme has truly been a tremendous experience for me It has allowed me to transcend my growth and deepen my expertise within the field I am also grateful to all those who have contributed to my success I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to my professors and mentors at the Institute of International Relations for their guidance, wisdom and encouragement over the course of my academic journey. I also wish to thank my family for their unwavering support, and finally, to the lifelong friends I have made along the journey, for their constant motivation and inspiration
My time at IIR allowed me to grow and develop into the best version o myself The support I received from the Institute and the Norman Girvan Library allowed me to build long lasting relationships and skills which I wil hold and cherish forever.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to complete my Master of Science in Global Studies at the University of the West Indies, Institute of International Relations. This programme has enriched my understanding of global issues and equipped me with the skills to make a meaningful impact. Thank you to my professors and peers for their invaluable support and encouragement throughout this journey!"
Venessa David-Sayers
Lynda Dhalai
Claudia John
Celine St. Clair
Celebrating Achievement
M.Sc.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of your esteemed Master’s program The knowledge and experiences I gained have been invaluable, and I deeply appreciate the support and guidance provided throughout my studies
Through constant dedication and challenges of remote learning. The zoom classes were engaging, insightful, and well-organized. The dedication of the faculty and the institution's commitment to delivering high-quality education in a virtual setting made all the difference
Thank you for fostering an environment of academic excellence and global engagement
I would like to express extraordinary gratitude to my Supervisor, Dr. Annita Montoute, for her insightful feedback, tutelage, humanity, guidance and support throughout the course of my postgraduate studies and research Thank you to The Norman Girvan Library staff, specifically, Ms Gina Ravello, for going above and beyond the call of duty to provide me with the literary support and ‘pep talks’ I needed throughout my postgraduate learning and research experience. Special thanks for all the prayers and the sacrifices made on my behalf to my sibling especially Jillian – love personified and my niece Breanna. Thank you to all the participants who took the time to be part of the study and made this research possible By highlighting issues of racism, I hope to inspire compassion and change
Pursuing the Master of Science in Global Studies at the Institute of International Relations deepened my understanding of complex global issues while fostering interdisciplinary connections with peers and professionals across various fields. I am grateful to my thesis supervisor, Dr. Georgina Chami, whose unwavering guidance, insightful feedback, and steadfast support were instrumental in shaping my overall journey
Giselle McIntyre
Chhaya Marajh
Shivani Narinedath-Maharaj
Tribute to Prof. Lancelot Cowie
Dr Lancelot Cowie, Honorary Professor and distinguished son of Tobago, was a pioneer in Caribbean and Latin American studies With a PhD in Spanish/Latin American Studies from UWI, he dedicated nearly 30 years to teaching at the St. Augustine Campus, serving as a lecturer and senior lecturer in the Departments of Modern Languages and Linguistics and Liberal Arts Dr Cowie was instrumental in developing various undergraduate and postgraduate courses, establishing the Portuguese language programme, and founding the Centre for Latin America and the Caribbean (CENLAC), which he directed from 2003 to 2016.
June 24th
His contributions extended to The UWI and the Institute of International Relations (IIR), where he served as Honorary Professor in the Latin American Programme He played a pivotal role in establishing exchange programmes with top Latin American institutions and led the Latin American Forum, fostering Caribbean-Latin American dialogue Dr Cowie’s publications, international collaborations, and his tenure as Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador to Cuba left a lasting impact. We mourn his passing on June 24, 2024, and extend condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. He will be profoundly missed.
The Legacy of Dr. Lancelot Cowie in Latin American Studies in the Caribbean
On Thursday 19th September, 2024, the Institute of International Relations hosted its first Latin American Forum titled “The Legacy of Dr. Lancelot Cowie in Latin American studies in the Caribbean.”
Speakers included: Dr Anne- Marie Pouchet, Dr Nina Bruni, Ambassador Víctor Hugo Morales Meléndez (Mexico), Ambassador Hernán Núñez Montenegro (Chile), Dr Regla Diago Pinillos, Ambassador Gustavo Véliz Olivares (Cuba), Charge d’Affaires Mrs Joyra Castillo (Panama) Ambassador Wellington Darío Bencosme Castaños (Dominican Republic), Mr. Rómulo Guedez Fernández and Ambassador Álvaro Sánchez Cordero (Venezuela).
Each speaker shared heartfelt memories of Dr Cowie, highlighting his achievements and contributions to Latin American Studies in the Caribbean and beyond As Dr Pouchet stated, “Lancelot was the voice of Latin America in the Caribbean ” A visionary whose legacy continues to impact those who knew him, he embodied love for the homeland
Dr. Cowie’s deep appreciation for the Spanish language and culture was praised. Though his native language was English, he spoke Spanish with such passion and fluency that it impressed Ambassadors He valued cultural exchanges and actively encouraged them
Described as patient, generous, and humble, personal stories reflected his sincere character He would make you coffee and wash the dishes a true gentleman Known for spontaneity, he often showed appreciation to friends, as noted by Dr. Diago-Pinillos: “There was a gathering each year for an ambassador’s birthday, where we would sing till morning,” showing the joy he brought to others.
Dr Cowie’s legacy shines through the experiences and achievements that he has left behind Critically enhancing the movement of the Latin American and Caribbean academic diaspora through his pioneering and innovative work over the span of his lifetime from past, present and future
IIR Orientation
On August 28th 2024, Dr. Annita Montoute, Acting Director of the UWI Institute of International Relations hosted the Institute’s 2024/2025 Orientation Ceremony for our new graduate students The event featured speakers from the various departments on the St Augustine Campus These persons included Dr. Shellyane Wilson (Acting Dean of FSS), Professor Duraisamy Saravanakumar (Director, Graduate Studies and Research), Mr. Kamau Osborne (Faculty of Social Sciences Liaison Librarian), Mr. Noell Corbett (Head of Campus Security Services) and Sgt. Oba Peru (Campus Security Services). They were also addressed by Ms. Jewell Garette (UWI Guild, Post-Graduate Representative), and Dr. Anthony Gafoor (IIR Alumni Association, Vice-President)
The students were also able to meet and hear from some of the lecturers and coordinators of the various programmes and the Acting Librarian at the Norman Girvan Library. Additionally, the Panel: International Relations Praxis, where they heard from distinguished members of the Diplomatic Corps and Civil Society in Trinidad and Tobago. These persons were: H.E. Gustavo Martínez Pandiani, Ambassador, Embassy of the Argentine Republic (Diplomatic sphere), Ms. Vashti Guyadeen, Chief Executive Office, Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI) (Private Sector), Ms. Reita Toussaint, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs (Foreign Service), Ms. Diana Francis, Representative, Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Delegation in Trinidad and Tobago (International Organizations) and Ms. Folade Mutota, Executive Director, Women's Institute for Alternative Development: (WINAD) (Civil society).
The purpose of the orientation was not only to inform and provide guidance to the new cohort about this new journey they were about to undertake, but also for them to be aware of how their degree could assist in various career options.
Attendees of the IIR Orientation 2024/2025
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Tel: (868) 466-4499
Some of the distinguished panelists at the IIR Orientation 2024/2025
The Institute of International Relations would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to The Weekend Caterer for their exceptional contribution to our various events Their offerings significantly enhanced the experience for all attendees. The variety and quality of their meals were not only a delightful treat but also a testament to their dedication and expertise in catering We deeply appreciate their role in making all our events memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved
Thank you, The Weekend Caterer, for your outstanding service and support.
Presidential Roundtable
On Tuesday 6th August, 2024 the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs and the UWI Institute of International Relations hosted “Choose Sustainability: A Path to Resilient and Prosperous Societies,” a hybrid Presidential Roundtable featuring H E Ambassador Dennis Francis, President of the United Nations General Assembly
Dr. Keron Niles moderated this event which touched on Diplomacy, Careers in Diplomacy, Global Events, war and peace, AI technology, Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and sustainability Ambassador Francis responded to questions posed by both in-person and virtual participants
Ambassador Dennis Francis emphasized the need for a stronger global effort and immediate action by the international community to combat
climate change and encourage sustainability He mentioned that the United Nations does not have the power to act on its own The states make the decisions, and action has to come as a unified body
The recording of the event can be viewed at link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byzxdZSPN w&t=749s
Diplomatic Dialogue
On October 24, 2024, the Institute of International Relations (IIR) hosted a thought-provoking Diplomatic Dialogue titled, “Technical Cooperation for Development: What Role for Diplomacy?”
This engaging event brought together distinguished guest speakers, H E Gustavo Martinez Pandiani, Ambassador of the Argentine Republic, and Ms. Diana Francis, a representative from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). Both speakers shared their insights and expertise on the critical role diplomacy plays in fostering technical cooperation for sustainable development, offering a rich discussion for attendees
The recording of the event can be viewed at link: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=byzxdZSPN w&t=749s
Webinars
The Arms Trafficking Menace in the Caribbean: Understanding the Crime & Litigation Dynamics
The recording of the event can be viewed at link: https://www youtube com/watch? v=dlQ876KbicQ
On September 26th 2024, the Institute of International Relations in partnership with the Caribbean Policy Consortium and The American Bar Association held a webinar titled, “ The Arms Trafficking Menace in the Caribbean: Understanding the Crime and Litigation Dynamics.”
The webinar was moderated by Professor Ivelaw Griffith, who emphasized that arms trafficking is a phenomenon that is transnational, complex and multi-dimensional in character
Panelists included Dr. Malisa Neptune-Figaro (Department of Behavioural Sciences, UWI), Mr. Callixtus Joseph (CARICOM IMPACS), Dr. Ivan Carpio (US Department of State, CBSI), Bruce Zagaris (Berliner Corcoran and ROWE LLP Fellow, Caribbean Policy Consortium)
Dr Neptune-Figaro discussed street gangs, firearm misuse, contributors to the Caribbean’s firearm influx, and socio-economic drivers of arms trafficking
Mr Joseph emphasized illicit firearms’ impact on sustainable development and highlighted CARICOM IMPACS’ initiatives addressing arms trafficking.
Dr. Carpio outlined U.S.-Caribbean cooperation and key programs countering illicit firearm trafficking.
Mr Zagaris focused on litigation’s role and the illicit arms trade’s effect on international human rights
U.S-Caribbean Dynamics and the 2024 U.S Presidential Elections: Old Path or New Directions
On Thursday 5th December 2024, The Institute of international Relations and The Caribbean Policy Consortium hosted a webinar titled "U.S-Caribbean Dynamics and the 2024 U.S Presidential Elections: Old Path or New Directions."
The webinar was moderated by Dr. Annita Montoute (Acting Director, IIR and Fellow Caribbean Policy Consortium).
Speakers included: H.E Patrick Duddy (Retired Ambassador, Senior Advisor for Global Affairs, Duke University, Fellow, Caribbean Policy Consortium), Professor Jessica Byron-Reid (Honorary Professor, SALISES, The UWI Mona and Fellow Caribbean Policy Consortium) Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith (Founding Fellow, Caribbean Policy Consortium and Senior Associate, Center for Strategic and International Studies), Dr. Scott MacDonald (Chief Economist, Smith’s Research and Gradings and Fellow Caribbean Policy Consortium) and Dr. Keron Niles (Lecturer, IIR UWI)
The webinar offered a perspective beyond the traditional Republican/Democratic divide, thereby thoroughly analysing and explaining what the election results signified for the international community and the Caribbean in various spheres
Panelists for the webinar entitled U S-Caribbean Dynamics and the 2024 U S Presidential Elections: Old Path or New Direction
NEGOTIATION SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES TRAINING MODULE
A total of 23 mostly foreign service officers, drawn from a cross section of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states, successfully completed a first-of-its-kind, four-day in-person training module titled 'Negotiation Skills and Techniques for Foreign Service Officers of Caribbean Community Countries' which began on 5th December 2024. The module was hosted by The University of the West Indies (The UWI) Institute of International Relations' (IIR) Diplomatic Academy of the Caribbean (DAOC), which partnered with the Clingendael Academy of the Netherlands Institute of International Relations to design and deliver the training at the St. Augustine campus. The module sought to enhance participants' skills, knowledge and understanding of international negotiation processes, against a backdrop where growing interdependence has made negotiation an indispensable tool in the international political arena
"The module has been developed and delivered in response to the recognized need to build negotiation-related capacity within CARICOM member states' foreign ministries, at a juncture where these small states are seeking to expand the scope of their associated diplomatic capabilities and positioning on the international stage " This according to The DAOC's Manager Dr Nand C Bardouille, who underscored that "as the match between the United Nations' (UN) priorities and post-Cold War international realities has grown less favourable to CARICOM member states, these countries have ramped up calls for reform of this preeminent world body. This module lends to this negotiation-related narrative."
Release can be found on Campus News p?id=22935
Graduates of the module stand proudly after having completed the joint training by The Diplomatic Academy of the Caribbean and the Clingendael Academy
Left to right (front row): Professor Ron Ton (Director of the Clingendael Academy); Dr Nand C Bardouille (Manager of the Diplomatic Academy of the Caribbean); Ms Lisette Blüm (Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands accredited to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago) and Dr Annita Montoute (Acting Director of the Institute of International Relations, the UWI)
I Am Latin America
Highlights from the Latin American Forums at the Institute
Cuba’s Medical Cooperation in the Caribbean La cooperación médica de Cuba en el Caribe
The Institute of International Relations proudly hosted its second Latin American Forum on Thursday 10th October, 2024. A gathering of distinguished diplomats and representatives fostered dialogue and collaboration across nations
Pictured from left to right: Ambassador of Venezuela, H E Álvaro Enrique Sánchez Cordero; Counsellor Commerce, Mr. Julio Joaquín Cabada Ferrera; Minister Counsellor, Mrs. Gilda López Mestre; Ambassador of Cuba, H.E. Gustavo Véliz Olivares; IIR Acting Director, Dr. Annita Montoute; Representative of High Commission of Jamaica, Mr. Nicholas Brodber; Programme Policy Officer, World Food Programme, Ms Regina Bakhteeva; Ambassador of Spain, H E María Cristina Pérez Gutiérrez; Ambassador of Colombia, H E William Bush
This forum was moderated by Dr. Laguardia-Martinez, bringing forth the acknowledgement of the Cuban medical force within Trinidad and Tobago.
Understanding Climate Vulnerability and the Resilient Development in the Caribbean Islands: The Scope of Mexico’s International Cooperation within the Region.
The Institute of International Relations had the honor of hosting its third Latin American Forum on Thursday, November 28th, 2024 The feature speaker for this event was Maestra Mireille Linares Valencia As a student in the PhD Programme in Studies of Development, specializing in Latin American Problems and Perspectives at the Dr. José María Luis Mora Institute, she was granted an academic stay at the Institute of International Relations for the period September 2nd, 2024 to November 30th, 2024
Professor Mireille Linares Valencia has focused her research on the international analysis of social and environmental issues, forced displacement of persons caused by disasters, climate change adaptation and the international cooperation of Mexico in its relationship with the Caribbean.
This initiative from Mexico is relevant to the production of foods and creation of a sustainable environment for the insular Caribbean states Here, this initiative assists the Caribbean islands to change and adapt the projects created by the International Cooperation from Mexico to fulfill the social, economical and environmental factors.
Distinguished diplomats and representatives who attended the second Latin American Forum
Research Awards
The Principal’s Research Awards, themed Research by All and Research for All, was held on November 14th and 15th, 2024 In anticipation of this prestigious event, the Institute of International Relations curated a “Faculty Research Output” poster
This poster served as a vibrant showcase, spotlighting the academic staff, their publications for the 2023–2024 academic year, as well as ongoing projects, events, and other scholarly activities
This conference was more than just a celebration of academic excellence; it represented a crucial platform for fostering stronger partnerships with diverse stakeholders By highlighting the impactful research being conducted at UWI, the event aimed to inspire meaningful collaboration, drive innovation, and address pressing regional and global challenges through research-driven solutions
Guest Lecture
On November 7, 2024, H. E. Gustavo Martinez Pandiani, Ambassador of Argentina gave a guest lecture on the topic : "Public Diplomacy and Global Citizenship: The Case of Small States."
Attendees of the Guest Lecture delivered by H E Gustavo Martinez Pandiani
HIGHLIGHTS THE NORMAN GIRVAN LIBRARY
From July to December 2024, the Norman Girvan Library served as a hub for resources, learning, activities, workshops, and services, all aimed at supporting the academic pursuits of our clientele.
The library hosted events such as Library Labs and Information Literacy sessions to support students' research needs We extend heartfelt thanks to all the facilitators and students who participated
The library presents the Imagination Corner, a relaxing space where students can take a break from academic demands, recharge, and explore their creativity, enjoy games, share feedback, or use the coloring templates to express oneself.
The library also welcomed several important persons such as Arthur A Gray, a retired diplomat and Jasmine Thomas-Girvan, widow of the late Prof Norman Girvan
The library observed several United Nation days and other observances, including Breast Cancer Awareness Month, World Food Day, Diwali, and Christmas, among others.
It was a productive semester, and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the future.
The Norman Girvan Library extends warm season’s greetings and best wishes for a rewarding 2025!
NGL Staff: Mrs. Dionne Spears Frontin, Mrs. Premma RamsawakRampath, Ms Gina Ravello and Mr Adrian Alexis
Students participated in the Library Orientation held on August 28, 2024
Student Enhancement
Study Visit to the Dominican Republic
A study visit from 7th to 14th July, 2024 organised by the UWI Institute of International Relations (IIR) through the kind support of the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Trinidad and Tobago provided a valuable opportunity for a thirteen-member delegation from the UWI St Augustine Campus and participants of the Latin American Forum to experience the rich culture and history of the Dominican Republic.
A significant highlight of the visit was the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between INESDYC (Instituto de Educación Superior en Formación Diplomática y Consular) and the UWI (University of the West Indies), underscoring their commitment to collaboration and partnership.
July 7th -14th, 2024
The signing of the MOU by Dr Jose Rafael Espaillat, Ambassador-Rector, INESDYC
The UWI/IIR delegates at ProDomincana and some staff members In centre of photo is Dionne Spears-Frontin (IIR Librarian Ag) and Vladimir Pimentel, Subdirectory General of ProDominicana (featured speaker)
Conversation & Tea with Diplomatic Spouses at the British High Commissioner’s Residence
November 5th, 2024
Dr Montoute and IIR students had the pleasure of attending the 'Conversation and Tea with Diplomatic Spouses' hosted by Mrs. Saara Browne and Mr Philip Saltonstall, on November 5th, 2024, at the British High Commissioner's Residence.
Venezuela to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and spouse of the Ambassador of Cuba to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
November 18th 2024
Field Trip to CANARI
Students were treated to an informative field trip to CANARI on November 18th 2024 They became more knowledgeable about how CANARI fulfills it’s mandate to further sustainable development across the region
Pictured from Left to right bottom row: Mrs Saara Browne spouse of Mr Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, H E Kerwyn Garcia, S C , First Gentleman of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Annita Montoute, Acting Director of the IIR, Mrs Matsubara, spouse of the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Mr Philip Saltonstall, spouse of the British High Commissioner to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Pictured from Left to right top row: Spouse of the Ambassador of France to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, spouse of the Indian High Commissioner to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Spouse of the Ambassador of
Editor’s Note
In this issue we celebrate the achievements of our graduates, each with their own story of success. We applaud their efforts and congratulate each of them on a job well done.
We have also paid tribute to Honorary Professor Dr. Lancelot Cowie, a man who loved the Caribbean and Latin America and who held a dream in his heart that these two regions will one day be more united in their shared reality.
Once again we have highlighted the events from August to December 2024 of the Institute of International Relations which showcase its public outreach
Special thanks to the Library Team and the OJT’s Iyana John and Michael Woods-Patino whose efforts are greatly appreciated
Hope that you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it
Warm regards, Dionne Spears-Frontin
Editorial Committee
Mrs. Dionne Spears-Frontin
Managing Editor
Librarian (Ag ), Norman Girvan Library
Mrs. Premma Ramsawak-Rampath Editor
Library Assistant III, Norman Girvan Library
Ms. Gina Ravello Editor
Library Assistant II, Norman Girvan Library