On behalf of the Government of Barbados, I am delighted to deliver this message to celebrate World Post Day 2025.
Each year, on October 9, countries around the world unite to honour the creation of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874 — a moment that transformed the way people, communities, and nations connect. For more than 150 years, the UPU has been a bridge across borders, making it possible for ideas, opportunities, and commerce to flow freely, and for families and friends to remain close no matter the distance.
Today, as we mark this occasion, we celebrate not only the vision of the UPU but also the tireless dedication of postal workers everywhere — men and women who keep the world moving, letter by declining letter, parcel by increasing parcel. Here in Barbados, and across the globe, their service reminds us that the postal network is more than infrastructure — it is a lifeline of connection, community and possibility.
As we celebrate the enduring importance of the post, we must also recognise the exciting changes shaping its future. In a world transformed by technology, globalisation, and evolving consumer needs, postal services everywhere are reimagining their role. The Barbados Postal Service is proud to be a part of this transformation.
International recognition
On that note, I am elated to advise of two significant achievements by the BPS over the last year. A year ago, Barbados was awarded the UPU Rising Star Award 2024 for having made outstanding progress in the UPU’s Integrated Index for Postal Development over the course of the year 2023.
The UPU’s Integrated Index for Postal Development is based on an analysis of four dimensions of postal development — reliability, reach, relevance, and resilience.
Reliability tracks service speed and predictability across mail classes nationwide. Reach assesses international postal connectivity and the volume of both inbound and outbound exchanges. Relevance measures how well postal services adapt to demand across business models and activity segments. Resilience estimates the postal sector’s ability to withstand economic, social, or technological shocks while maintaining service. There is also a bonus awarded for quality data reporting, participation in carbon emissions tracking, and progress in reducing environmental impact.
Therefore, for 2023, Barbados leapfrogged to rank 15th globally on this index, proving that once again this island nation is capable of punching above its weight. For 2024, Barbados still ranked at the top of the Caribbean nations, though the performance was less remarkable. I have it on good authority that the management team will be working assiduously to regain that lost ground. To do this, all members of staff must not only pull their weight but also work together so each achieves more — and the organisation as a whole will progress.
The other significant achievement of the BPS over the last 12 months is our recent election to two of the Universal Postal Union’s governing councils – the Council of Administration (CA) and the Postal Operations Council (POC).
The Council of Administration oversees the UPU’s work between congress sessions, ensuring compliance and promoting best practices; while the POC sets technical and operational standards to drive innovation, efficiency, and digital transformation across the global postal network.
The fact is that Barbados has enjoyed a distinguished international postal reputation dating back to 1979. This means we are deeply familiar with the systems and activities of the Universal Postal Union. Though small in size, our administration has remained steadfast in championing the interests of small island developing states while also respecting, valuing, and balancing the perspectives of all groups within the Union.
Election to both councils is a proud moment for Barbados, allowing us to continue to contribute to the global stage with a distinctly Caribbean voice.
Looking to the future
Going forward, the focus of the Barbados Postal Service will be on exploring opportunities to facilitate both inbound and more particularly outbound e-commerce or trade.
The BPS continues to play a vital role in serving Barbadians — the unbanked and financially underserved in particular. We recognise that many citizens face challenges with online transactions, and we remain committed to ensuring that no one is left behind. With an extensive network of eighteen postal counters across the island, we provide a trusted platform for payments on behalf of government ministries and departments and for utilities, as well as other private sector partners. The Postal Service’s team was mandated to use every resource available to ensure that, before the end of August, the three post offices that were closed for extended periods from different points in time last year were restored to functionality.
Why was this important, you may wonder? Yes. Customers even went so far as to petition for one of the Offices to reopen. What many do not realise is the range of services offered by the BPS. From accepting payments for police certificates of character and liquor licences to inmate funds at Dodds Prison, the BPS makes everyday transactions easier and more accessible. This is one of the factors contributing to Barbados’ continued high rank on the UPU’s Postal Development Index’s Resilience dimension. Even when not among the outstanding performers, Barbados ranks higher than some of the leading countries’ posts on the resilience dimension.
Looking ahead, we envision expanding the range of third-party agency payments for the convenience of the public.
Securing borders
Security remains another pillar of the post’s mission. Given our role in border control, the Barbados Postal Service works hand-in-hand with national, regional,0 and international partners to safeguard Barbados from contraband and illicit goods. Our efforts are vital to protecting our borders and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
Going green
Equally important is sustainability. Aligned with the UPU’s Sustainable Development programme and the Government of Barbados’ goal of becoming a 100 per cent green, carbon-neutral island by 2030, BPS is embracing cleaner technologies, having already introduced electric vehicles into our fleet with plans to continue to phase in hybrid vehicles. These are but small steps in the BPS’ wider strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and to help build a greener, more resilient Barbados.
In closing, as we mark World Post Day on October 9, let us celebrate the timeless role of postal services in linking hearts, communities and nations across the world.
For 173 years, the Barbados Postal Service has faithfully served this island, evolving with the times to meet the changing needs of our people. Today, the BPS stands not only as deliverers of postal items but partners in economic growth, guardians of sustainability and providers of essential services that touch every corner of society. Let us take pride in this journey and look forward with optimism, as we continue to modernise to serve Barbados with dedication and purpose.
I thank you and wish the postal family a very enjoyable and successful postal celebration in recognition of World Post Day 2025.
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