Deputy Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr. has announced the release of all his Year in Office reports since taking office in March 2018. The Deputy Governor made the announcement in a video address released today, 19th February.
Author Mrs. Venoria Todman will launch her new book, Show and Tell Marriages, Living in Hell, on March 26 at Village Cay Marina. The book explores the emotional challenges in modern marriages. The Virgin Islands Department of Culture supports local authors and encourages the community to attend the event and engage with Mrs. Todman.
As the international investigation into The Prince Group and connected entities continues, the relevant BVI competent authorities have been working to take all appropriate actions.
The Virgin Islands will implement the OECD’s updated Common Reporting Standard (CRS 2.0) effective 1st January 2026, requiring Financial Institutions to collect new data throughout 2026 and submit it to the International Tax Authority by May 2027. Key changes include expanded definitions to cover digital products, crypto-assets, and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), enhanced due diligence procedures, and clarified reporting requirements. These updates align with the Mutual Legal Assistance (Tax Matters) Act, Revised Edition 2020. The Virgin Islands has also committed to adopting the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) by 2028.
Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley announced the publication of the UN Special Committee on Decolonization’s report following its visit to the British Virgin Islands in August 2024. The report assesses the Territory's decolonization progress and recommends implementing an education program on independence, establishing an independence timetable, engaging in talks with the UK, and considering a referendum on independence. The report will be debated in the House of Assembly and the government will host a public forum for views. The report is available on the Government’s website.
The British Virgin Islands has introduced revised Financial Sanctions Guidelines, effective from December 31, 2024. These guidelines provide comprehensive instructions for individuals, businesses, and financial institutions to comply with international sanctions. Key updates include asset freezing obligations, reporting requirements, and revisions to licensing procedures. The Virgin Islands Sanctions Unit oversees compliance and inquiries. A virtual session will be held to further guide stakeholders, and the updated guidelines are available on the FSC and FIA websites.
Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley has reported significant progress across various sectors in 2024, highlighting achievements that support a stronger and more sustainable Virgin Islands. Delivering his 2025 Territorial Address under the theme “Planning, Priorities and Progress (2024) and Laying the Blocks of Success (2025) Building a Sustainable Nation,” Premier Wheatley cited road repairs, water and sewage upgrades, the launch of a payment portal, electrical infrastructure improvements, and legislative advancements, including steps toward expanding the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport. He described 2024 as a year marked by resilience and innovation, with efforts aligning with the National Sustainable Development Plan’s six goals: Economy, Infrastructure, Health and Wellness, Education and Learning, Environment, and Good Governance & Leadership. The full address is available on the Government’s website and Facebook page, and residents are encouraged to participate in a public satisfaction survey.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports successfully concluded Education Month 2025 under the theme “Innovate. Inspire. Transform. A Reimagined Education for All.” Events across the Virgin Islands included leadership conferences, classroom initiatives, science fairs, debates, and athletic championships. The month celebrated learning, innovation, and community collaboration, highlighting the Territory’s dedication to an inclusive and forward-thinking education system.
Public officers in the Virgin Islands were consulted on the proposed Human Rights Commission Bill, 2025 during a virtual Extra-Ordinary Meeting on February 26. The meeting provided a detailed presentation on the Bill, allowing officers to ask questions and understand its impact. Permanent Secretary Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome emphasized the importance of public officer feedback in shaping the final version of the legislation. The Bill aims to establish an independent commission to address human rights violations. Public meetings for wider consultation are scheduled, with the first set for March 12, and the public is encouraged to participate and submit feedback online.
Three years ago, when we began this journey, I encouraged you to give more, to get change.