Why in the News?

The government of Trinidad and Tobago declared a state of emergency on December 30, 2024, in response to escalating violence in the Caribbean nation.

About Trinidad and Tobago

• Geography:
  • Located in the southern Caribbean, near Venezuela.
  • A dual-island nation consisting of Trinidad (4,768 sq. km) and Tobago (300 sq. km).
  • Total land area: 5,128 sq. km.
  • Climate: Tropical, with a dry season from January to May and a rainy season from June to December.
• Population:
  • Approximately 1.5 million people.
  • Ethnic Composition: African (36.3%), Indian (35.4%), Mixed (22.8%), European, Chinese, and others.
  • Religions: Christianity (64%), Hinduism (18%), Islam (5%), and others.
• Capital and Cities:
  • Capital: Port of Spain (Trinidad).
  • Other key cities: San Fernando, Chaguanas, and Scarborough (Tobago).
• Political System:
  • Government Type: Parliamentary democracy under a constitutional republic.
  • Member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
  • Gained independence from the UK on August 31, 1962, and became a republic in 1976.
• Infrastructure:
  • Ports: Port of Spain, Point Lisas, and Scarborough are critical for trade.
  • Airports: Piarco International Airport (Trinidad) and A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (Tobago).
• Culture and Heritage:
  • Known for the Carnival, one of the world’s largest pre-Lenten celebrations.
  • Birthplace of Calypso music, Soca, and the Steelpan (the only acoustic musical instrument invented in the 20th century).

Geo-Political Significance

• T&T is a major exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemicals (methanol and ammonia), supplying markets in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America.
• It is positioned at the crossroads of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, serving as a gateway between North and South America.
• It is a founding member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) advocating for regional economic integration, disaster response, and collective security.
• It is a active member of the Commonwealth and the United Nations, pushing for climate change resilience and sustainable development initiatives.

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