CaribPR Wire

2026 Yidan Prize recognizes changemakers redefining education and care at the intersection of health, nutrition, and economics

caribpr — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:31:01 +0000

HONG KONG, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Yidan Prize Foundation, a global philanthropic organization, announced the 2026 Yidan Prize laureates at a press conference in Hong Kong today, marking the prize’s tenth year of championing education changemakers worldwide. Chaired by OECD’s Director for Education and Skills, Andreas Schleicher, the independent Judging Committee has selected Professor Paul W. Glewwe as the 2026 Yidan Prize for Education Research Laureate for breaking barriers to learning by shaping effective policies and interventions through rigorous research, unleashing the potential of children in vulnerable communities and unlocking a healthier, more prosperous future. The Committee has also selected Professor Susan P. Walker, Professor Sally Grantham-McGregor, and Dr Susan M. Chang-Lopez as the 2026 Yidan Prize for Education Development Laureates for developing an evidence-based, early childhood model that transforms children’s development and life trajectories in low-resource, displaced, and indigenous communities.

Laureates of each prize will each receive HK$30 million (approximately US$3.8 million), comprising a cash award of HK$15 million and an unrestricted project fund of HK$15 million to advance their work and expand their reach. Since 2017, the Yidan Prize Foundation has awarded a total of HK$600 million (approximately US$77 million) to 25 laureates, supporting their work in nearly 60 countries and regions.

“The work and collective impact of our laureates over the past decade have made the Yidan Prize a lighthouse to illuminate pathways forward in global education. Every laureate strengthens this commitment, brings transformative ideas, and expands the ways in which we shape the future of education,” said Dr Charles CHEN Yidan, Founder of the Yidan Prize.

The Yidan Prize recognizes changemakers whose work is future-oriented, innovative, transformative, and sustainable. Nominations for the 2027 Yidan Prize will open from 27 October 2026 until 2 March 2027.

Spotlighting what works and breaking down barriers to children’s learning at scale

Paul W. Glewwe, Regents Professor in the Department of Applied Economics at the University of Minnesota, is awarded the 2026 Yidan Prize for Education Research for demonstrating how socioeconomic, health, and nutrition factors beyond traditional inputs in school settings shape children’s learning outcomes. He was instrumental in introducing literacy, numeracy, and abstract reasoning indicators of both children and parents into the World Bank’s household surveys, enabling policymakers to better understand the connection between poverty, inequality, and education. He also pioneered the use of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness of education programs and policies, helping governments and development organizations direct resources toward approaches proven to improve learning. In addition, he was among the first economists to incorporate social-emotional skills into economic analyses of education and development. His innovative research across more than 15 developing countries has shaped education policy and practice around the world.

Dr Elizabeth M. King, Head, Judging Panel, Yidan Prize for Education Research, highlighted the significance of Paul’s work. She said, “Transforming education systems and outcomes happens when uncompromising scientific rigor is coupled with a fierce commitment to make a difference in people’s lives. For nearly 40 years, Paul Glewwe has provided that rigor. He has given governments the evidence they need to spend wisely, teachers the tools they need to instruct effectively, and millions of vulnerable children the opportunity to learn, thrive, and escape the trap of intergenerational poverty.”

Supporting parents and caregivers in the most critical years of children’s development

Professor Susan P. Walker, Professor Sally Grantham-McGregor, and Dr Susan M. Chang-Lopez are recognized by the 2026 Yidan Prize for Education Development for their evidence-based early childhood intervention Reach Up. They are Emeritus Professor of Nutrition of the Caribbean Institute for Health Research at The University of the West Indies; Emeritus Professor of International Child Health and Development at University College London; and Senior Lecturer of the Caribbean Institute for Health Research at The University of the West Indies, respectively. Beginning their research careers in health and nutrition, they discovered the critical role of early stimulation and quality interaction in children’s development and life trajectories. Building on this evidence, they developed practical solutions to expand caregivers’ capacity to provide stimulation from age 0 to 4. Using low-cost, culturally adaptable activities rooted in everyday routines, Reach Up supports caregivers in building their knowledge, skills, and confidence to talk, play, and respond in ways that nurture children’s cognitive development. Today, the program is implemented in over 21 countries across the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East through existing health, social protection, education, and humanitarian systems. Reach Up’s curriculum and materials are available for free and are continuously evaluated and adapted to improve the program’s effectiveness.

Dorothy K. Gordon, Head, Judging Panel, Yidan Prize for Education Development, applauded the laureates’ contribution to early childhood education. She said, “Reach Up equips children with better chances for an equal start in learning, education, and life. The laureates have demonstrated how lasting change can be achieved through a combination of evidence, partnership, and local leadership. The immense global impact of their work is linked to the quality and rigor of their pathbreaking multi-disciplinary research combined with a toolbox of well-designed interventions.”

Shaping the future of learning at the 2026 Yidan Prize Summit

The 2026 laureates will join three days of stimulating conversations at the Yidan Prize Summit in Hong Kong from 3 to 5 December 2026. Building on last year’s discussion on the future of education at a crossroads, the 2026 Yidan Prize Summit will spotlight a shift underway: seeing education not just as a place, but as a driving force for flourishing ecosystems grounded in human connection, creation, and deep learning in the age of AI. The 2026 Yidan Prize Awards Ceremony will take place on the final day, where the 2026 laureates will receive their prizes.

Note to editors

Download images of the 2026 Yidan Prize laureates and Yidan Prize judges here.

Read the full citation from Dr Elizabeth M. King, head of the Yidan Prize for Education Research judging panel.

Read the full citation from Dorothy K. Gordon, head of the Yidan Prize for Education Development judging panel.

About the Yidan Prize Foundation

The Yidan Prize is the world’s highest accolade in education, spotlighting innovators whose research and development work is transforming lives and societies. The Prize comprises two awards: the Yidan Prize for Education Research and the Yidan Prize for Education Development. Each award includes a gold medal, a total sum of HK$30 million — half of which is a cash award of HK$15 million, and another half is an unrestricted project fund of HK$15 million to help laureates advance their missions.

Established in 2016, the Yidan Prize Foundation works toward a better world through education. Anchored around its laureates, the foundation brings together a global community of changemakers — researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and philanthropists — who learn from one another, champion shared standards of excellence, help shape the field’s agenda, and accelerate change at scale.

For more information, visit yidanprize.org or contact media@yidanprize.org.

Find us @yidanprize on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

Time is Running Out to Submit a Claim in the Asbestos Corporation Limited insolvency proceedings

caribpr — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:36:47 +0000

The deadline is September 10, 2026.

NEW YORK, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The following statement is being issued by Kroll Restructuring Administration and Raymond Chabot Inc. regarding the Asbestos Corporation Limited insolvency proceedings.

With less than one month remaining before the September 10, 2026 Claims Bar Date, anyone with an asbestos-related claim against ACL, including heirs and representatives of deceased individuals exposed to asbestos mined by ACL, must file a Proof of Claim. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation from ACL and certain related parties, including General Dynamics Corporation and its affiliates.

This deadline also covers other non-asbestos-related claims against ACL and/or its directors and officers.

Anyone who believes they may have a claim is encouraged to review their eligibility and submit the required documentation as soon as possible.

HOW TO FILE A PROOF OF CLAIM?

Proof of Claims must be submitted as follows:

Online (only for Existing Asbestos Claims): ACLClaims.com
Email: asbestoscorp@rcgt.com
Call: 877-788-0179
Fax: 800-711-1070
Mail in Canada: Raymond Chabot Inc.
Attention: Asbestos Corporation Limited
National Bank Tower
600 De La Gauchetière Street West, Suite 2000
Montréal, Québec H3B 4L8
Mail in U.S.: Grant Thornton NYC
Attention: Asbestos Corporation Limited
757 Third Ave., 9th Floor
New York, NY 10017

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

For more information concerning ACL’s insolvency, Frequently Asked Questions, Proof of Claim form, examples of personal injury and other claims that can be filed, instructions on how to file a claim, and important documents including the Bar Date Notice, visit the Monitor’s Claims Bar Date Website at ACLClaims.com or call 1-877-788-0179.

Viettel Brings Two Decades of International Telecom Experience to the Dominican Republic

caribpr — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 15:12:35 +0000

HANOI, Vietnam, Aug. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Viettel Group, one of Vietnam’s largest telecommunications and technology groups, is bringing more than two decades of international investment experience to the Dominican Republic, building on a track record across 10 overseas telecommunications markets in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Following the recent spectrum award by the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications, INDOTEL, Viettel is preparing for a long-term presence in the country, with plans to invest in telecommunications infrastructure and contribute to the Dominican Republic’s digital development.

Under Resolution No. 073, 2026 issued on August 19 by INDOTEL, Viettel Global, the international investment arm of Viettel Group, was awarded the right to use 240 MHz of spectrum across the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 3.6 GHz bands for 20 years. The spectrum provides a strong foundation for the deployment of modern 4G and 5G networks.

Under the terms of the tender, the corresponding concession agreement must be signed within 90 days. Viettel Global is also proceeding with the necessary steps to establish its local entity in the Dominican Republic. Once operations begin, the Dominican Republic will become Viettel’s 11th international telecommunications market.

“With more than two decades of international experience, we pursue a long-term investment approach focused on building modern infrastructure, introducing advanced technologies and creating sustainable value for people, businesses and local economies,” said Tao Duc Thang, Chairman and CEO of Viettel Group.

Viettel currently operates networks in 10 international markets across Asia, Africa, Latin America. Seven of these operators lead their respective markets by mobile subscribers. In 2025, its international operations generated USD 3.34 billion in revenue, up 23.9 percent year on year, marking the ninth consecutive year of double-digit growth.

Its international capabilities were further recognized at the 2026 International Business Awards, where Viettel received the highest number of awards among more than 3,800 participating organizations worldwide, with 21 of its 30 awards recognizing achievements across its overseas operations.

As one of the Caribbean’s largest and most dynamic economies, the Dominican Republic is seeing growing demand for high-speed connectivity and digital services. Viettel sees the country as an important part of its next phase of international growth.

In the Dominican Republic, Viettel plans to build advanced telecommunications infrastructure with extensive coverage, including underserved and remote areas, and to expand access to connectivity and digital services ecosystem for local consumers and businesses.

Viettel Named Top Winner Worldwide at the 2026 International Business Awards

caribpr — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 12:02:33 +0000

The Vietnamese telecommunications and technology group takes

30 Stevie Awards, including 1
9 Gold
– the most of any entrant in a field drawn from 78 nations and territories.

HANOI, Vietnam, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Viettel Group has been named the top winner of the 23rd Annual International Business Awards® (IBA), taking 30 Stevie® Awards: 19 Gold, 8 Silver and 3 Bronze. It is the highest total of any organization in this year’s program, and Viettel’s 19 Gold Stevies are nearly double the next-highest tally.

The result lifts Viettel from second place worldwide in 2025, when it won 25 awards. Its Gold count has more than doubled year on year, from 8 to 19. The group has now won more than 150 IBA awards since it first entered in 2016 – the strongest record of any Vietnamese company in the program’s history.

Part of the Stevie Awards family, the IBA is the world’s only international, all-encompassing business awards program. This year’s edition drew more than 3,800 nominations from organizations in 78 nations and territories, among them IBM and Cisco, evaluated by more than 210 business professionals serving as judges on 11 specialized committees.

Most of the 30 awards came from Viettel’s overseas operations, a sign that its operating and innovation standards travel across markets. Bitel (Viettel Peru) and Metfone (Viettel Cambodia) led the group with 6 awards each.

Bitel was recognized in categories including Telecommunications – Large, Most Innovative Company of the Year and Best Mobile App for Social Good. Metfone won Gold for Viral Marketing Campaign of the Year and Most Innovative TikTok Channel – telecom marketing turned popular culture.

Lumitel (Viettel Burundi) took Gold as a medium-size telecommunications company, while Halotel (Viettel Tanzania) and Telemor (Viettel Timor-Leste) also featured among the winners. Viettel’s corporate social responsibility programs in Africa earned 3 Silver Stevies.

In Vietnam, the awards went largely to AI-driven platforms and products: Viettel Post’s smart logistics robot complex and AI-powered driver-monitoring camera; Viettel Solutions’ eDoc electronic document management platform and the Viettel ITS intelligent transport system; and ISAAP, an information security assessment and audit platform built by the group’s information technology center. Viettel Post also won Management Team of the Year and Transportation – Large.

The results reflect Viettel’s strategy of shifting from telecom operator to technology company, with its AI, automation and cybersecurity products well regarded in international markets.

Vantage Highlights Automation and Digital Finance Trends at Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026

caribpr — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 11:00:17 +0000

PORT VILA, Vanuatu, Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Vantage Markets participated in Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026 as a Diamond Sponsor at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel in Santo Domingo. The event included a VIP gathering on July 24 and the main expo on July 25, attracting approximately 3,500 visitors.

The event took place amid broader financial digitisation in the Dominican Republic. On July 23, the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic said it was working to implement a new instant-payments system designed to operate 24/7/365, credit funds within a maximum of 10 seconds, and allow non-bank payment service providers, including fintechs, to connect.

Against this backdrop, discussions at Wealth Expo focused on how technology is changing market access and trading behaviour. Rodrigo Martínez examined the shift from manual to automated trading, including EAs, copy trading and PAMM; José Flores discussed trading signals and copy trading within trading communities; Brissia Delgado joined a panel on the role of platforms in regional trading expansion; and Alan Freitag addressed discipline and process in trading decision-making.

Vantage received two event recognitions: “Best Trading Solutions” and “Best Copy Trading Platform.”

“We were pleased to participate in Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026 and contribute to discussions around automation, digital finance and developments in trading technology. The event provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on evolving trends across the industry,” said Marco Pisanelli, Regional Business Development Manager at Vantage.

Vantage’s participation reflects its continued commitment to industry dialogue, financial education and discussions on developments in trading technology.

About Vantage

Vantage Markets, or Vantage, is a multi-asset CFD broker offering access to CFDs on Forex, commodities, indices, shares, ETFs and bonds through its trading platforms and services.

Risk Warning

CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of rapid losses due to leverage. Make sure you understand the risks before trading.

Disclaimer

This release is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or investment advice, or an offer or solicitation of any financial product or service in any jurisdiction where such an offer or solicitation would be unlawful. Products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions.

International Rights Groups Raise Alarm Over Freedom of Religion and Expression in South Korea

caribpr — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 12:52:29 +0000

Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF), together with CAP Liberté de Conscience (CAP LC), which has accredited ECOSOC status at the United Nations, FOREF, CESNUR and Bitter Winter, held a press conference on August 7, 2206 at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents’ Club on Freedom of Religion or Belief and Freedom of Expression in South Korea.

CaribPR Wire, SEOUL, South Korea, August 9, 2026: Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF), together with CAP Liberté de Conscience (CAP LC), which has accredited ECOSOC status at the United Nations, FOREF, CESNUR and Bitter Winter, held a press conference on August 7th at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents’ Club on Freedom of Religion or Belief and Freedom of Expression in South Korea. The issues addressed included concerns about the treatment of elderly religious leaders in pretrial detention, including questions of proportionality, humanitarian considerations, and due process. The organizations called on South Korean authorities to review the detention of 95-year-old Shincheonji Chairman Lee Man-hee and to ensure that the legal and administrative response to religious minorities remains neutral, proportionate, and consistent with South Korea’s international human-rights obligations, including with respect to 83-year-old Mrs. Hak-ja Han Moon of the Family Federation.

The issues discussed form part of a broader pattern of Freedom of Religion or Belief concerns in South Korea. Concerns have also persisted regarding Segero Church in Busan, which has reportedly continued to face harassment and official scrutiny even after Pastor Son Hyun-bo was released from detention.

Reporting has also raised questions about conscientious objection, public hostility toward a mosque project in Daegu, and religious accommodation in educational settings. Over the past decades, HRWF has documented the imprisonment of hundreds of Jehovah’s Witnesses in South Korea as conscientious objectors, and although alternative civilian service was later introduced, critics maintain that it has been implemented in a punitive manner rather than as a genuine rights-respecting alternative, notably because it requires 36 months of service in correctional facilities, twice the length of regular military service. Recent court decisions have also upheld key features of that system against constitutional challenge.

Opening the conference, Hans Noot, Associate Director of HRWF, said the issues at stake “lie at the heart of democratic society,” warning that when religious communities are stigmatized, peaceful gatherings are restricted, and dissent is treated as a problem to be contained, the consequences “extend far beyond any single group or case.” He said the conference was not about defending any one theology or movement, but about “defending a principle: that fundamental rights apply equally to all.”

Thierry Valle, President of CAP Liberté de Conscience, addressed the legality of Chairman Lee’s detention under international law. Referring to South Korea’s ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in 1990 and the Convention against Torture in 1995, he questioned whether placing a 95-year-old in pretrial detention is consistent with those obligations. He stressed that the presumption of innocence must prevail over any presumption of guilt.

There are alternative more proportionate and more humane measures respecting the presumption of innocence and human dignity in democratic countries. And he cited precedents including Cardinal Joseph Zen’s 2022 release on bail in Hong Kong and Vietnam’s decision to place Buddhist Patriarch Thich Quang Do under house arrest rather than in prison.

Michael Langhans, Executive Director of FOREF Germany, presented a legal analysis questioning whether pretrial detention for Chairman Lee of the Shincheonji Church was necessary given evidence already sufficient for an indictment, and whether that evidence was gathered neutrally rather than through a narrative framing the defendant’s community as a “sect” or “cult.” He argued that the case raises a broader question for lawmakers: whether measures meant to protect fair elections can be applied without nullifying the constitutionally and internationally guaranteed right to freedom of religion.

Márk Nemes, Deputy Director of CESNUR, shared his thoughts on the effects of ongoing persecution and its possible ramifications for minority faiths. He noted three recent scholarly investigations conducted in selected Shincheonji congregations in Europe, Argentina, and Australia, each finding worrisome increase in hostility toward the otherwise peaceful and cooperative religious movement. He stressed that Shincheonji is not simply a South Korean minority church but a global religious movement with congregations worldwide. The disproportionate persecution in South Korea affects the lives of those congregants abroad, whose freedoms for expressing and practicing faith, enshrined in ICCPR Articles 18 and 19, are inalienable rights and must be considered during this current process.

Massimo Introvigne, Managing Director of CESNUR and Editor-in-Chief of Bitter Winter, said South Korea “has crossed a worrying line” by arresting Chairman Lee, arguing that international standards such as the Mandela Rules would call for house arrest rather than imprisonment for a 95-year-old accused of a non-violent offence. He said the charges, tied to ordinary political participation by members of a religious minority, “appear legally and conceptually overstretched,” and warned that the case fits a broader pattern of pressure against minority faiths in the country.

The organizations called on South Korean authorities, the media, and the international community to examine these developments with close attention to due process, proportionality, and the equal protection of fundamental rights, and made further documentation available to support continued reporting.

At the conclusion of the press conference, the scholars in attendance signed an official letter calling on the Government of the Republic of Korea to immediately release Chairman Lee from custody.

Media Contact

Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF)

intern1@hrwf.org

Detention of a 95-Year-Old Religious Leader Damages Korea’s Reputation: European Scholars of Religion Call for the Release of Chairman Lee Man-hee

caribpr — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 14:17:20 +0000

Concerns Raised at European Academy of Religion’s International Conference Held in Rome – Strong Appeals Over Violation of International Law

CARIBPR WIRE, Washington, D.C., Sat. July 25, 2026: European scholars of religion are making strong appeals to the South Korean government to release Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old Chairman of Shincheonji Church, who remains in detention.

Religious scholars signing an appeal requesting an end to Chairman Lee’s detention.

Chairman Lee was detained on 24 June on charges including violations of the Political Parties Act and was indicted on 29 June. The Joint Police–Prosecution Investigation Headquarters alleges that, between July 2021 and January 2024, he directed the mass registration of approximately 50,000 church members into a particular political party.

In response, Shincheonji Church stated that individual members freely participated in political activities and that both Chairman Lee and the church have faithfully cooperated throughout the entire investigation process, including the searches and seizures. The church also expressed deep regret, stating that detaining Chairman Lee, an elderly man aged 95, amounts in effect to a form of physical punishment.

Scholars of Religion State that Detaining an Elderly Person Over Non-violent Allegations Violates International Law

Dr. Introvigne as a speaker at the European Academy of Religion’s international conference held on 3 July

The European Academy of Religion (EuARe), a non-profit academic network connecting scholars and institutions of religious studies across Europe, held its Ninth Annual Conference in Rome, Italy, on 3 July, where the circumstances surrounding Shincheonji Church were addressed. During the session titled “Shincheonji, a Korean New Religion in Global Context,” European scholars of religion presented their respective academic papers on Shincheonji Church. The recent situation in South Korea, including the detention of Chairman Lee, was also shared with participants.

At the conference, Dr. Massimo Introvigne, a sociologist of religion and the Founder and Managing Director of the Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR), commented on the detention of Chairman Lee as follows:

Dr. Massimo Introvigne, the Founder and Managing Director of CESNUR

“In all European Union countries, legislation mandates that, those older than 80, only exceptionally, should be put in jail; they should be under house arrest if needed, and only for violent crimes, if there is a risk of actual violence connected with blood crimes. Here, of course, there are no blood crimes, and the accusations are violations of electoral law.”

“And what Korea is doing to this elderly religious leader is in violation of international law, including the United Nations’ so-called Mandela Rules, which mandate that preliminary detention should be, in general, not the rule, and only in an extremely limited number of exceptional cases may be applied to elderly prisoners. So what is happening is an unmitigated scandal, which hides a political and religious vendetta.”

Eric Roux, an interfaith advocate and President of the European Interreligious Forum for Religious Freedom (EIFRF), who also participated in the session, reiterated the injustice of detaining an elderly person.

Eric Roux, President of EIFRF

“A man of 95 years old being put in jail is not something that you can reconcile with the objective of respecting human dignity. Even if what you pretend he has done is true, you would not put a man of this age in prison as is the case now. So I would suggest that this be reviewed very fast to avoid something that would be very detrimental to the reputation of South Korea, which is please, get that man out of jail and do it now.”

Human Rights Expert Describes the Detention as Unthinkable in a Democratic Country

Human rights lawyer Alessandro Amicarelli expressed concern, citing South Korea’s democratic tradition. He is a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales, a barrister in Italy, and Chairman of the European Federation for Freedom of Belief (FOB).

Alessandro Amicarelli, Chairman of FOB

“As a human rights lawyer, I always considered South Korea a true democracy where human rights are upheld like a foundation of the democracy. Unfortunately, what’s happening now is truly shocking. … We cannot accept that a religious leader in a democratic country, at the age of 95, has to be under this kind of pressure.”

“What we’re seeing right now, … it looks like South Korea is departing from its own Constitution, its own human rights foundation. For this reason, I’m very happy to support Shincheonji in your fight against abuse and persecution in South Korea and anywhere in the world.”

Shincheonji Church emphasized that the detention of Chairman Lee has gone beyond academic interest and is now being raised as an international human rights issue.

The international human rights organizations United for Human Rights and Coordination des Associations et des Particuliers pour la Liberté de Conscience (CAP-LC; Coordination of Associations and Individuals for Freedom of Conscience) submitted a joint written statement on the human rights issues faced by Shincheonji Church to the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on 25 May (Document No. A/HRC/62/NGO/236; circulated on 10 June). In the statement, the two organizations assessed that “the situation has intensified” in South Korea and noted that framing members’ registration with a political party as evidence of “religion–politics collusion” is inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees every citizen the right to participate in political life.

The two organizations further stated: “In December 2025, the President ordered the creation of a joint police–prosecutor task force explicitly targeting Shincheonji… Senior officials have publicly referred to Shincheonji as a ‘criminal organization,’ statements incompatible with the presumption of innocence.” They also added, “We [urge] the Government of the Republic of Korea to reaffirm its commitment to freedom of religion, non-discrimination, and state neutrality.”

Shincheonji Church noted that “As support and petitions from prominent figures in the international community continue to grow regarding the detention of Chairman Lee Man-hee, pressure on the South Korean government and the judiciary is also mounting.” It further said, “The prompt release of Chairman Lee is a matter of safeguarding freedom of religion and human rights, which are core values of democracy.”

ABOUT SCJ

SCJ is an abbreviation for Shincheonji. SCJ TV is the official broadcasting channel of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony. As a global media platform featuring worship, Bible education, teaching, and cultural content, SCJ TV aims to make its Bible-based teachings accessible to audiences worldwide, transcending geographical and linguistic boundaries.

Website: https://www.shincheonji.org/en

https://www.scjtvglobal.com

Contact: press@scjtvglobal.com

Markel Group Inc. announces conference call date and time

caribpr — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 22:02:21 +0000

RICHMOND, Va., July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) announced today it will hold a conference call on Thursday, July 30, 2026 beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss quarterly results and business developments.

Investors, analysts and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at ir.mklgroup.com. The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing (833) 461-5787 in the U.S., or +44 808 196 8935 internationally, and providing Meeting ID: 322 635 047. A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call.

The webcast, the conference call and the content and permitted replays or rebroadcasts thereof are the exclusive copyrighted property of Markel Group Inc. and may not be copied, taped, rebroadcast, or published in whole or in part without the express written consent of Markel Group Inc.

About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group’s durability and adaptability. It’s a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.

Contour Airlines Announces New Nonstop Service Between St. Thomas and St. Maarten

caribpr — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:36:43 +0000

SMYRNA, Tenn., July 22, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Contour Airlines today announced new nonstop service connecting two of the Caribbean’s most iconic destinations: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. Maarten. The new route will operate between Cyril E. King Airport (STT) and Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), beginning October 5, 2026, providing travelers with a convenient and seamless connection between the islands.

The addition of this service enhances regional connectivity across the northeastern Caribbean, strengthening ties between two vibrant island economies while improving access for both residents and visitors. The route is expected to support tourism growth, business travel, and inter-island mobility, offering a reliable air service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten.

“Contour is proud to continue expanding air service throughout the Caribbean with meaningful routes that connect communities, support tourism, and improve access between islands,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “This new nonstop service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten reflects our ongoing commitment to providing convenient, reliable, and comfortable air travel options across the region.”

Leaders in the U.S. Virgin Islands welcomed the new service as another step toward strengthening regional travel and creating new opportunities for visitors and local communities alike.

“We are excited about the addition of this new Contour Airlines flight between St. Thomas and St. Maarten, which further expands the connectivity between the U.S. Virgin Islands and the broader Caribbean,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King, Commissioner of Tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands. “This new service not only makes it easier for travelers to explore the region, but also strengthens the longstanding family, cultural, and business connections that have united our islands for generations. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to experience all that the U.S. Virgin Islands has to offer.”

Officials at Princess Juliana International Airport echoed that sentiment, highlighting the importance of expanded regional air service and Contour’s continued investment in St. Maarten.

“We are pleased to welcome Contour Airlines’ continued investment in Sint Maarten through the launch of nonstop service to St. Thomas and the expansion of its San Juan operations,” said Michael Cleaver, Chief Executive Officer of Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA). “Every new route strengthens the connectivity that is so vital to island communities. It strengthens regional ties, expands opportunities for business and tourism, enhances mobility for our residents and gives travelers greater choice in how they connect across the Caribbean and beyond.

We value Contour Airlines as a trusted regional partner and appreciate the confidence they continue to place in PJIA and in Sint Maarten. This milestone reflects what can be achieved through strong partnerships and the unwavering commitment of our airport team to creating an environment where airlines can grow and for passengers’ benefit.”

Flight Schedule (Twice Weekly Service)

Mondays:

STT → SXM: 11:35 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
SXM → STT: 1:15 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.

Fridays:

STT → SXM: 12:35 p.m. – 1:35 p.m.
SXM → STT: 2:30 p.m. – 3:25 p.m.

Flights will be operated with Contour’s fleet of 30-seat regional jet aircraft, offering passengers extra legroom, complimentary snacks, and inflight service designed to enhance the overall travel experience.

For further details, please visit Contour Airlines. For customer inquiries or travel assistance, kindly contact (888) 332-6686.

About Contour

Contour Airlines offers a premium airline product that includes a complimentary snack and beverage service on all flights. Contour operates a growing fleet of regional jets featuring leather seating with expanded legroom in every row. Tickets are available for purchase on Contour’s website at contourairlines.com, by calling the Contour call center at (888) 332-6686, and through local and online travel agencies. Travelers can also book seamless connections with Contour’s interline partners; Alaska, American, JetBlue, United, and Winair.

Contour Airlines Announces New Nonstop Service Between Dominica and Trinidad & Tobago

caribpr — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:26:19 +0000

The airline will also provide one-stop, same plane service between San Juan and St. Thomas to Trinidad & Tobago

SMYRNA, Tenn., July 22, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Contour Airlines is pleased to announce new non-stop service between Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM) in Dominica and Piarco International Airport (POS) in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Beginning October 5, 2026, the new route will operate twice weekly, establishing an important new air service between the Eastern Caribbean and one of the region’s key commercial gateways. The airline will also provide one-stop, same plane service between Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in San Juan and POS as well as between Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas.

This new service is expected to significantly strengthen regional connectivity by providing travelers with a more direct and convenient option between Dominica and Trinidad & Tobago. The route enhances access to connecting travel throughout the Caribbean while also supporting continued growth in inbound tourism, commerce, and business activity in both markets.

“We are excited to continue expanding our Caribbean network with the addition of nonstop service between Dominica and Trinidad & Tobago,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “This route strengthens connectivity within the Eastern Caribbean by making travel more convenient for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Whether traveling for work, family, or leisure, passengers will benefit from a fast, comfortable, and reliable travel option while supporting stronger economic and tourism ties between these two vibrant destinations.”

Local officials in both Dominica and Trinidad & Tobago also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of expanded air service in supporting tourism growth and regional economic development.

“This direct jet service to Trinidad upgrades the visitor experience by offering greater comfort, speed, and reliability. said Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister of Tourism in Dominica. “Trinidad is a great market for Dominica’s tourism sector. We are particularly excited about the strong appeal this route holds for nature enthusiasts and festival lovers from Trinidad. We share a passion for birding—Trinidad’s world-renowned birdwatching community will find a perfect complement in Dominica’s pristine rainforests and unparalleled avian diversity, home to many unique species. Visitors will also discover exceptional hiking through our lush landscape, world-class diving opportunities, and an array of health and wellness experiences—from spa retreats to holistic wellness programs. The service also restores seamless travel through Piarco International (POS), with excellent onward connections. We look forward to welcoming many more friends from Trinidad to experience our unique offerings.”

Flights will operate twice weekly according to the following schedule:

Route	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Frequency
DOM → POS	6:05 PM	7:25 PM	Monday & Thursday
POS → DOM	8:30 AM	9:50 AM	Tuesday & Friday

One-stop flights will operate weekly according to the following schedule:

Route	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Frequency
POS → SJU	8:30 AM	11:50 AM	Tuesday
SJU → POS	4:05 PM	7:25 PM	Thursday

Route	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Frequency
POS → STT	8:30 AM	11:45 AM	Friday
STT → POS	4:00 PM	7:25 PM	Monday

Flights will be operated with Contour’s fleet of 30-seat regional jet aircraft, offering passengers extra legroom, complimentary snacks, and inflight service.

For further details, please visit www.contourairlines.com or contact Customer Service at (888) 332-6686.

About Contour

Contour Airlines offers a premium airline product that includes a complimentary snack and beverage service on all flights. Contour operates a growing fleet of regional jets featuring leather seating with expanded legroom in every row. Tickets are available for purchase on Contour’s website at contourairlines.com, by calling the Contour call center at (888) 332-6686, and through local and online travel agencies. Travelers can also book seamless connections with Contour’s interline partners; Alaska, American, JetBlue, United, and Winair.