Barbados is pushing back hard against a new U.K. terrorism warning for the island. Foreign Affairs Minister Kerrie Symmonds said the advisory has no basis, calling the terror threat nonexistent. The U.K. Foreign Office advisory mentioned a global high threat, stating attacks could not be ruled out despite no recent history in Barbados. Minister Symmonds suggested the warning might stem from broader international tensions and divisive policies elsewhere, not local conditions.
The travel notice also covered violent crime risks like armed robbery and gang shootings. It advised precautions such as using licensed taxis and avoiding isolated areas after dark. Symmonds acknowledged this part of the report matched factual crime trends, noting a shift from past advisories about petty theft to current concerns over more serious gun violence. He recognized that these annual advisories aim to protect British citizens abroad. The U.K. remains a major tourist source for Barbados, though visitor numbers dipped slightly this year. The advisory additionally cautioned LGBT+ travelers about conservative Caribbean social attitudes.
The travel notice also covered violent crime risks like armed robbery and gang shootings. It advised precautions such as using licensed taxis and avoiding isolated areas after dark. Symmonds acknowledged this part of the report matched factual crime trends, noting a shift from past advisories about petty theft to current concerns over more serious gun violence. He recognized that these annual advisories aim to protect British citizens abroad. The U.K. remains a major tourist source for Barbados, though visitor numbers dipped slightly this year. The advisory additionally cautioned LGBT+ travelers about conservative Caribbean social attitudes.
