DR MARGARET NAKHID-CHATOOR

We are not asking for equality

To rank with the rich in society

To visit their homes in their motorcars

Or to go to their clubs and smoke their cigars.

We are asking for a living wage

To exist now and provide for old age

Our kind-hearted employers, I appeal now to you

Give us some work to do.

The legislators only quarrel and fret

About unemployment but haven't relieve us yet

There is no vision that we can see

To take us out from tribulations and misery

We can't fight physically for we wouldn't prevail

On account of ammunition, cruel laws and jail

But every man was born to be free from this oppression

And tyrannic slavery.

– Workers' Appeal, 1936, by Neville Marcano, Tiger

AS OUR country celebrates Republic Day for its 48th year, several thoughts have come to mind, including the words of the calypso above, written by Tiger, as far back as 1936, and relevant to us more than 88 years later.

I am no politician, but the current state of our beloved country has put each of its thinking and morally-minded citizens in the awkwardly observant roles of politician, economist, criminologist, and public and mental health advocate.

Republic is the term given when an independent country puts in place its own constitution to govern its affairs, and political power rests with the public through the elected representatives. Are we being properly represented by those who have committed themselves in the service of our people? Why do they continue to disrespect and fail us by their evasive attitudes to those in distress?

Our country faces significant challenges related to economic disparities, high crime rates, and pervasive poverty, all of which have contributed to a sense of hopelessness among many citizens.

While the economic sector, reliant on oil and gas, has brought wealth, it has also led to gross economic imbalances, corruption and nepotism, pushing people into financial distress.

Factors such as poverty, unemployment and social inequities have affected various aspects of life, including education, health and domestic living, and these factors have also contributed significantly to criminal activities. Presently, the lack of opportunities and social mobility further fuels this sense of hopelessness and apathy.

While it is important to acknowledge that the Government has been working on economic diversification and a strengthening of fiscal policies, which are crucial steps towards long-term stability, the continuing economic challenges seem insurmountable and have had a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of the population.

The rising cost of living and the blatant increases in basic goods and services have led to financial stress for many workers and families, leading to anxiety and depression. Younger people feel that there are limited prospects for their future – having university degrees and instead getting menial jobs.

In addition, despite the growing need for improvements in mental health and inclusion, a