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The Forty-Ninth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held in Montego Bay, Jamaica from 6-8 July under the chairmanship of Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica.

Members of the Conference in attendance were: Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda; Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of  The Bahamas; Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Barbados;  Honourable John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize;  His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana; His Excellency Laurent Saint-Cyr, Councillor-President, Member of the Transitional Presidential Council, Haiti; Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica;  Honourable Terrance Drew, Prime Minister, Federation of St Kitts and Nevis; and Dr the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Dr Vince Henderson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Energy represented the Commonwealth of Dominica;  Honourable Joseph  Andall, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development represented Grenada; Honourable Veronica Dorsette Hector, Deputy Premier, represented Montserrat;  Honourable Alva Baptiste, Minister of External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs  represented Saint Lucia; His Excellency Steven MacAndrew, Minister of Labour, Employment Opportunity and Youth Affairs represented the Republic of Suriname; Honourable Sean Sobers, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs,represented the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Associate Members in attendance were Honourable E David Burt, Premier of Bermuda; Dr the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, Premier of the British Virgin Islands, His Excellency Gilmar Pisas, Prime Minister of Curacao; and Honourable Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

OPENING CEREMONY

The Opening Ceremony was held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James. The event featured remarks by leaders of the Community, and cultural items from several Jamaican performers. There was also a Declaration of solidarity from the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors for Jamaica which underscored their preparedness and desire to support the leaders of the Region in its development, prioritizing creativity, innovation and technology.

In her remarks, CARICOM Secretary General, Dr Carla Barnett noted that the collective action of CARICOM Member States has delivered many commendable results for the people of the Region, in human and social development, economic integration, foreign policy coordination, and security, which provide a useful roadmap for the way forward. 

“Unprecedented global uncertainty, economic pressures, technological innovations that challenge our capacity to keep pace, climate vulnerability, and the needs of our young people, our women and future generations, compel us to act collectively, with courage and with conviction,” the Secretary-General said.

Prime Minister of Barbados and Outgoing Chair, Honourable Mia Amor Mottley noted that CARICOM has seen many challenges and urged the gathering to persevere and persist in efforts to advance and strengthen integration. Quoting from popular Jamaican artiste, Jimmy Cliff, she said “We can get it if we really want, but we must try and try and try.”

She pointed to support for Haiti, efforts to control disinformation, and the need to tackle crime and enhance citizen security, as some of the critical issues which the Community must continue to address.  “We must be resolute in preserving CARICOM as a Zone of Peace and reaffirm our commitment to working with the international community to promote de-escalation, uphold diplomacy, and pursue lasting solutions grounded in dialogue and mutual respect”.

In his remarks, the new Chair, Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness said his Chairmanship would focus on regional security, especially as it relates to transnational organised crime and gangs, noting that it is critical that a global war on gangs be declared similar to the war on terror. The Prime Minister called for concerted action to dismantle criminal networks and cripple their resources.

“Our theme: People, Partnerships and Prosperity – Promoting a Secure and Sustainable Future” captures the essence of our regional purpose. It reflects a profound truth, that security and resilience are not optional; they are foundations for prosperity; that people-centered development and strategic partnerships are not aspirational, but essential,” the Prime Minister said.

He cited climate justice and climate finance, mobilizing support for Haiti, and strengthening internal coordination and external partnerships as critical to the ongoing work of the Community. Prime Minister Holness also stressed the importance of engaging young people in shaping the decisions that affect their future. He reminded that it was important to engage them in a deliberate, sustained and meaningful manner.

The opening ceremony can be viewed at: https://caricom.org/49hgc/

CARICOM SINGLE MARKET AND ECONOMY (CSME) 

Implementation of Full Free Movement

To advance the goal of free movement of all Community nationals, Heads of Government, in accordance with the provisions of the Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation, authorised Barbados, Belize, Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines, the Participating Member States, to, among themselves, grant their nationals the right to enter, leave and re-enter, move freely, reside, work and remain indefinitely in the receiving Member State without the need for a work or residency permit. Their nationals will also be able to access emergency and primary health care, and public primary and secondary education, within the means of the receiving Member State.

The Participating Member States have agreed that the required legislative, security and administrative measures to support the free movement of their nationals will be undertaken and that free movement among them will commence on 1 October 2025.

Heads of Government also agreed to include aviation personnel among the categories of skilled Community nationals entitled to move freely within the Community under Article 46 of the Treaty. This category includes aircraft maintenance engineers, professional pilots, air traffic controllers, and flight operations officers.

 EXTERNAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS

The Heads of Government discussed developments in United States (US) trade policy which have introduced a marked shift in the bilateral trade relations which have been underpinned by the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) trade preferential programmes for more than four decades.  They agreed to continue the Community’s advocacy with the US Administration at the highest political level, to safeguard the Region’s trade interests with its most important trading partner. 

They welcomed the tabling of a request by the US for a five-year WTO waiver for the CBI until 30 September 2030 and agreed that the Region would continue to engage constructively with the US Trade Representative to address the future bilateral trade relationship.

Heads of Government also agreed to deepen engagement with existing trading partners through the Joint Institutions established under the trade agreements concluded with these countries. They further agreed to pursue new market opportunities with non-traditional trading partners, in particular the African Union, Brazil and India.  

CLIMATE CHANGE AND CLIMATE FINANCE

Heads of Government congratulated the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre on its 20^th Anniversary and recognised its significant support to the climate agenda of CARICOM Member States.

They emphasised that CARICOM will continue to focus on the special circumstances of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). They registered their concern at the apparent erosion of support amongst several governments of the developed world for the special circumstances of SIDS, and underscored that CARICOM negotiators must continue to make the case for those circumstances across the Climate Agenda.

They called on major economies to take urgent action to increase the ambition of their Nationally Determined Contributions in line with the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement, and to fast-track implementation to keep 1.5 within reach.

The Conference registered support for the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit to be convened by the Government of Guyana in Georgetown from 23 -25 July 2025.

As it relates to Climate Finance, Heads of Government reaffirmed support for the Bridgetown Initiative and reform of the international financial architecture, including an increased CARICOM representation in financial decision-making bodies.

Heads of Government expressed concern at the rising cost of insurance, insisting that it is a major barrier to climate resilience and threatens the viability and competitiveness of businesses in the Region.

They called for a significant portion of the $300 billion mobilisation goal under the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) decision to be channeled through the multilateral climate funds under the UNFCCC, and for finance to be targeted to adaptation and loss and damage for SIDS.

They acknowledged that COP 30 must serve as a vehicle to mobilise climate finance that is predictable and accessible  that prioritises SIDS and LDCs and is responsive to the Region’s needs and priorities. 

Heads of Government approved the Revised Regional Framework prepared by the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center which outlines the strategic goals and priority actions to build regional climate resilience.

Heads of Government noted the recent publication of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) Advisory Opinion on “Climate Emergency and Human Rights”. The Advisory Opinion creates a legal framework for States to address the climate crisis from the human rights perspective. Through the Advisory Opinion, the IACHR has acknowledged the climate crisis as a threat to individuals and peoples which creates a legal framework for States to align climate policies with human rights.

FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY

Heads of Government approved the Formulation and Design Plan to expand the Vision 25 by 2025+5 food and nutrition security initiative. This Plan will allow for, inter alia, enactment of cross-cutting regional policies to support the sector including investment, establishment of businesses and movement of people; expansion of the stakeholder base to attract new capital and increased funding; and re-alignment of regional and national agricultural priorities.

His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana in keeping with his responsibility for food and nutrition security in the CARICOM Quasi-cabinet, outlined several successful Member State projects under the initiative in the last two years. He reported a marked region-wide increase in the involvement of women and youth in agriculture, and in nursery capacity, and commended regional governments for their commitment to the Initiative.

Heads of Government expressed their appreciation to President Ali for his continued dedication to the 25 by 2025+5 initiative. They welcomed the recent study identifying Guyana as the only food-sufficient country in the world as a plus for the Region’s efforts at food and nutrition security.

They noted that the Inter-American Board of Agriculture, at its forthcoming 23rd regular meeting in Brasilia in November 2025, was scheduled to elect a new Director General for the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA) for the period 2025 to 2030. They reaffirmed their full and unequivocal support for the candidacy of Dr Muhammad Ibrahim of Guyana, as one eminently qualified for the post, and called on other hemispheric partners to lend their valuable support for his election.

ENGAGEMENT WITH SPECIALLY INVITED GUESTS

His Excellency Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary-General of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL)

Secretary-General Urquiza expressed his appreciation for the exchange with CARICOM. He reported that data shared by INTERPOL member countries and regional analysis show that the rise of criminal networks, narcotics trade and a surge in firearms trafficking are three of the most pressing security threats confronting Caribbean nations. He reported that the IMPACS/INTERPOL partnership agreement now guarantees the continued presence of INTERPOL’s Liaison Office in Barbados, representing a renewed and sustainable framework for long-term collaboration.

Heads of Government expressed their appreciation for his presence and perspectives. They acknowledged the existing and potential benefits of increased collaboration to deal effectively with major organised crime.

They requested further assistance of INTERPOL with technology deployment and monitoring mechanisms to support border protection measures.

They noted Guyana’s announcement that it would be hosting the scheduled INTERPOL Conference in 2026.

His Excellency Albert Ramdin, Secretary General of the Organization Of American States (OAS)

The Secretary-General thanked the Region for its active engagement in his election. He gave a comprehensive presentation addressing the challenges facing the global and hemispheric environments, including climate change, development financing, migration, threats to multilateralism, sovereignty and territorial integrity, political instability, and particularly, the unprecedented levels of uncertainty.

Heads of Government warmly congratulated the Secretary-General on the assumption of his new role, noting he was the first from CARICOM to be so designated. They welcomed his recommendation for the development of a Caribbean Community agenda in preparation for the Tenth Summit of the Americas, scheduled for December 2025 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

THE SECOND CARICOM-AFRICAN UNION SUMMIT

The Summit is to be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 7 September 2025, which is also Africa -CARICOM Day. Heads of Government agreed to prioritise representation at the highest level and emphasised the importance of the ongoing engagement with the African continent.

A coordinating committee, to include Jamaica, Barbados and St Kitts and Nevis, along with the CARICOM Secretariat, will work with representatives of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission to advance the logistical and other preparations for the Summit.

Heads of Government encouraged engagement with the Caribbean diaspora in Ethiopia and the participation of representatives of Regional Pan-African organisations.

SECURITY ISSUES

Heads of Government adopted the Montego Bay Declaration on Transnational Organised Crime and Criminal Gangs (accessible via: https://caricom.org/montego-bay-declaration-transnational-organised-crime-and-gangs-6-8-july-2025-jamaica/ ) in keeping with their commitment to dismantle criminal networks that have been impacting peace and security across the Region.

They acknowledged that the Declaration, together with the 2024 George-Bridge Declaration of the Second Regional Symposium on Crime and Violence as a Public Health Issue, and the 2023 Needham’s Point Declaration, comprise the principles of a new Regional Security and Judicial Framework.

The Conference welcomed the report presented by the High-Level Representative on Law and Criminal Justice, as well as the outcomes of the first dialogue held between Heads of Government and Heads of Judiciary from across the Region.

Regional Centre of Excellence for Policing

Heads of Government received a proposal from Barbados for a Regional Centre of Excellence for Policing. The Centre would be a hub for skills and leadership training for police officers who will, in turn, use these skills to implement best police practices and drive behavioural/ cultural change in policing in their respective jurisdictions.

The Centre would be headquartered in a CARICOM jurisdiction and agency best positioned with existing infrastructure, capacity and other factors.

THE SITUATION IN HAITI

Heads of Government expressed grave concern over the degeneration of the humanitarian situation in Haiti, which now borders on famine. They committed to redouble the efforts of CARICOM Heads of Government to engage with all relevant actors for the mobilisation of resources for security support, and to provide direct humanitarian assistance.

They received an update from the Transitional Presidential Council on its activities and welcomed clarity on the situation provided by the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group.

They also received a proposal from the Secretary General of the OAS and noted commitments made through the OAS from several Latin American countries of direct and technical assistance to the Kenya-led MSS Mission and the Haitian National Police. Heads of Government agreed that urgent action is needed on the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and called on international partners to pay attention and to provide support which is needed to bring security and stability to Haiti.

REGIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY

Heads of Government noted the progress made towards developing a regional telecommunications strategy. To further advance this, they mandated the Working Group to also look at the role of Public Private Partnership Arrangements to finance the required investment in telecommunications infrastructure.

They also noted the need to finalise regulatory frameworks in conjunction with national regulatory authorities.

BORDER ISSUES

Belize – Guatemala and Belize – Honduras

Heads of Government received an update on the Belize – Guatemala and the Belize – Honduras cases before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The Conference also received, with concern, a report from Belize regarding the increased tensions in the Sarstoon River and the repeated maritime incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belize’s territorial and internal waters.

They underscored the obligation of Belize and Guatemala to refrain from any action which could exacerbate the dispute while the case is before the ICJ and reiterated  the call for both countries to urgently fulfil their commitment to design a mechanism of cooperation for the Sarstoon River and maritime spaces, with the assistance of the OAS.

Heads of Government also expressed concern about the continued illegal activities by Guatemalans that result in the deforestation of Belize’s protected areas and biodiversity loss along the Belize-Guatemala border. 

They acknowledged the valuable role of the OAS in accompanying the process of confidence building measures and called on the international community to increase support for the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone.

Heads of Government reaffirmed their steadfast support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Belize.

Guyana- Venezuela

Heads of Government received an update on the latest developments concerning the Guyana-Venezuela controversy.  They noted that although Venezuela purported to have held elections on 25 May 2025 for a “Governor” and “Legislative Council” in the so-called “Guayana Esequiba State”, in defiance of the May 1, 2025 order of the International Court of Justice, in fact no elections were held by Venezuela in the Essequibo region of Guyana.

Heads of Government encouraged Venezuela to submit its Rejoinder, the final written pleading in the case, by 11 August 2025, in compliance with the scheduling Order of the International Court of Justice.  

Heads of Government reiterated their full support for the ongoing judicial process as the means for resolving the controversy peacefully, finally and in accordance with international law. 

Heads of Government reiterated and underscored their unequivocal and unwavering support for the maintenance of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana.

COMMON LEGISLATION INITIATIVE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Heads of Government expressed concern about the deleterious effect that social media and artificial intelligence (AI) generated images could have on children and vulnerable groups, and the recent cessation of efforts at content moderation by Big Tech companies.

They agreedto pursue a regional approach to develop a framework for digital safety and associated laws, to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of Caribbean citizens, and to establish a Regional Digital Safety Commission to develop proposals to enhance online safety.

REPARATIONS

Heads of Government expressed their full support for Jamaica’s undertaking to file a petition to King Charles III for the  referral of three questions to the Privy Council related to the United Kingdom’s (UK) historic mistreatment of enslaved Africans on plantations in Jamaica.  It was agreed that this approach was another path toward seeking Reparatory Justice and that it carried potential to contribute to the CARICOM regional approach as set out in the Ten Point Plan

FINANCIAL REGUALTORY PROCEDURES

Heads of Government reiterated their commitment to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing, including through strengthened regulatory and policy measures, as well as through partnerships at regional, bi-regional and multilateral levels. They recognised that Anti-money Laundering (AML) measures are critical for maintaining financial integrity. Heads of Government noted the significant reforms undertaken by Caribbean States to fully address the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the OECD’s tax transparency standards.

They further noted that Member States’ efforts have been acknowledged by the recent full delisting of Barbados and Jamaica by FATF, as well as by the European Commission’s recommendation to the European Parliament, via its Delegated Regulation of June 2025, that these two Caribbean countries be delisted.

REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION

Heads of Government thanked the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) and Ferry Operators NSG for their detailed proposal on the operations of a regional ferry service.  They agreed to establish a Sub-Committee comprising Heads of Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, to work with the CPSO and NSG to develop financial proposals to have an operational ferry service.

They also agreed to establish a Sub-Committee of the Foreign Ministers of Barbados, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago, to address the free movement of intra-regional trade, including customs procedures, insurance and drivers’ licenses to facilitate the smooth operation of the ferry service.

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Heads of Government commended the British Virgin Islands on their completion of the governance reform programme and noted the difficulties posed by the Order in Council that can impose direct colonial rule on the BVI.

Heads of Government agreed to expedite negotiations with Bermuda on its application for full membership.

CARICOM INDUSTRIAL POLICY

Heads of Government noted the ongoing work to prepare a CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy, which will promote government interventions and policies to encourage, support, coordinate and improve the capability of specific industries, sectors and firms to achieve and sustain regional competitiveness.

REGIONAL POPULATION COMMISSION

Heads of Government noted the ongoing efforts to establish a Regional Population Commission, which is expected to inform a CARICOM Population Policy to address projected population trends, and formulate strategic approaches to reconciling population growth with regional development objectives. 

CARIFESTA XV

Heads of Government welcomed the update provided on CARIFESTA XV to be held from 22 -31 August in Barbados under the theme “Caribbean Roots – Global Excellence”.  Heads of Government expressed full support to Barbados for its hosting of CARIFESTA XV.

THE ENHANCED ROLE OF YOUTH IN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Heads of Government noted that a report has been prepared by youth of the Region on the enhanced role of young people in the Community.

The report was informed by regional consultations and calls for youth to be more incorporated in Caribbean development through structured and well-resourced action, and for youth development to be embedded as a core pillar of regional integration and progress.

CARICOM EDUCATION TRANSFORMATION COMMISSION

Heads of Government noted a report on the steps taken so far to establish a Commission to drive a unified equity-based regional education agenda. They looked forward to its early convening.

SURINAME

 Suriname advised that its new President, Her Excellency Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, the first female to hold this position, will be sworn in on 16 July 2025.  Outgoing President, His Excellency Chandrikapersad Santokhi, expressed his appreciation to the Conference, the CARICOM Secretar- General, staff of the Secretariat, and the wider CARICOM family, for their enduring partnership and solidarity.

The Government of Suriname underscored its ongoing commitment to the ideals and goals of the integration movement.

Heads of Government registered their thanks and appreciation to the outgoing President for his commitment and partnership in support of regional integration.

CONDOLENCE  

The Conference expressed its condolences to the loved ones and colleagues of Rickey Singh, a Caribbean son of the soil and journalist, who passed away on 5 July 2025 in Barbados. They noted his passionate advocacy for CARICOM, and that his dedicated reporting and analysis of regional issues facilitated a deeper understanding of the Caribbean Community.

INVITATION

The Conference noted an invitation from Grenada to the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) to be held July 28 – 29, 2025.

APPRECIATION

Heads of Government expressed their gratitude to the Government and people of Jamaica for the excellent arrangements made for the Meeting, and the warm hospitality they received.

DATE AND VENUE OF NEXT REGULAR MEETING

Heads of Government accepted the invitation of the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis to the 50^th Regular Meeting of the Conference in Basseterre from 25 – 27 February 2026.

DECLARATION

The Conference issued the following Declaration:

MONTEGO BAY DECLARATION ON

TRANSNATIONAL ORGANISED CRIME AND GANGS

JULY 6-8, 2025

JAMAICA

We, the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica from July 6-8, 2025, on the occasion of the 49^th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM:

Remaining deeply concerned and alarmed bythe surge of gun crime and violence across the Caribbean region, driven by the proliferation of illegal firearms and activities of gangs and/or organised criminal groups, which continue to pose a serious threat to the region, its institutions of governance, and the very fabric of our societies,

Underscoring our commitmentto addressthe concerns of our peoples, regarding the impact of organised crime and illicit trafficking on their communities, livelihood, and security,

Cognisant of the current global security threats and the potential impact on the stability and socioeconomic progress of our societies,

Recalling the decision to collaborate on implementing measures to address crime, violence, and national security, and the implications for public health, that directly result from gang activities and the illegal importation of guns into our region,

Renewing ourcommitment tostrengthening the Region’s response by implementing effective measures to monitor new trends in illicit firearms trafficking, enact robust legislation to include stringent penalties for firearm and gang-related offences, and to strengthen public awareness on the issues relating to the prevention and prosecution of all forms of organised criminal activities,

Determined to create societies characterised by productivity, prosperity, peace, and security,

1. Reaffirm our commitment to continue efforts to complete a comprehensive review of the criminal justice system to, inter alia, address criminal terrorists with a focus on the proactive management of investigations, prosecutions, and sentencing, while also expanding programmes aimed at the early identification and positive redirection of young people who may be at risk of social exclusion or vulnerability to crime;

2. Agree to strengthen the regional institutional security structures, to include the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), and implementation of programmes such as the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), to effectively enhance collaboration and sharing of information, to disrupt criminal networks, as well as, leverage shared resources to enable law enforcement and support border security efforts;

3. Reinforce national anti-gang strategies to more effectively monitor and disrupt gang movement and their linkages to cross border firearm-related crimes within CARICOM;

4. Recognise the importance of undertakingthe development or amendment of national legislation to effectively combat gun crimes, the illicit trade in arms and ammunition, trafficking offences in all forms, especially human trafficking as one of the most heinous crimes against humanity;

5. Commit    to the development and implementation of comprehensive counter-narcotics strategies, through enhanced cooperation, resource sharing, and sustained policy engagement.

6. Resolve to integrate into the formal economy, rule of law, and governance systems, under governed spaces that provide, or can provide safe havens to criminal organisations.

Issued in Montego Bay, Jamaica on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, on the occasion of the 49^th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

STATEMENT

Heads of Government issued the following Statement:

STATEMENT FROM THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) HEADS OF GOVERNMENT ON THE HUMANITARIAN CATASTROPHE IN GAZA

We, the Heads of Government of CARICOM, are profoundly distressed by the escalating and appalling situation in Gaza, now an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. We express grave concern over the immense, unabated suffering and tragic loss of civilian lives, particularly women and children.

CARICOM has consistently called for an immediate, unconditional, and sustained ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access. These urgent calls have largely gone unheeded, leading to a crisis of unparalleled proportions. Relentless military operations, including indiscriminate bombardment and direct attacks on aid-seeking civilians, flagrantly violate international humanitarian law.

We are appalled by UN and humanitarian reports depicting widespread hunger, disease, and displacement, deliberately exacerbated by deprivation of basic necessities such as food, water, medicine. Critical fuel shortages further threaten to halt all lifesaving services. The weaponization of essential resources is morally repugnant, intolerable and unconscionable.

We unequivocally condemn all violence against civilians, including the abhorrent 7 October 2023 attacks and hostage-taking. We equally condemn the disproportionate military response, actions contravening international law, and systematic undermining of peace by illegal settlement expansion. The unacceptable dismantling of humanitarian mechanisms, replacing UN-led coordination with military control, demonstrably leads to further civilian casualties.

CARICOM reaffirms its unwavering commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable path to comprehensive, just, and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, consistent with UN Security Council Resolutions and international law. We lament the belligerent and continued disregard for these resolutions, urging the international community to redouble efforts for strict adherence and enforcement.

We, the Heads of Government, urgently demand an immediate ceasefire.  There must be full, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza, ensuring vital aid, including fuel, medical supplies, food, and water, reaches all in need without delay. We call for an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and detainees. We demand an end to forced displacement of Palestinians and protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law. It is imperative that there is accountability for all violations of international law, with perpetrators brought to justice.

We, the Heads of Government, reiterate our solidarity with all victims and urge maximum diplomatic efforts for a durable solution to the legitimate security and humanitarian concerns of all parties. The international community cannot stand idly by while this catastrophe deepens.

CARICOM stands ready to support all constructive initiatives for a lasting peace that meets the legitimate aspirations for security, dignity, and stability of all Israelis, Palestinians, and peoples in the wider Middle East.

8 July 2025

####

Dated: 11 July 2025

“It is also important to explore how the Region’s policymakers and development specialists can partner to exploit the untapped opportunities for securing positive educational outcomes, strengthening community development and facilitating greater youth engagement through chess.”

CARICOM Deputy Secretary-General, Dr Armstrong Alexis, believes that participation in sport can unlock young people’s potential to secure the Region’s future.

He shared this view at the opening of the CARICOM Chess Classic 2025, held at the Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown, Guyana, on Monday, 30 June 2025. The event was organised by the Guyana Chess Federation.

“Not only has chess been associated with increased intelligence and academic performance, but its characteristics as a cognitively demanding game have also made it of high interest in educational spheres, youth engagement, and in promoting mental well-being,” stated Dr Alexis.

He added, “So, this event goes beyond bragging rights and chess mastery. I do not think I exaggerate when I say that this Tournament is also about securing the Region’s future through youth development.”

Please read his complete remarks below.

Salutations

I am honoured and excited to be in your midst this evening. Thank you for the invitation and for the opportunity to address you briefly.

I wish to commend the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF ) for its commitment, not just to nation building but to an even more ambitious goal of deeper regional integration, by taking the lead in organising and hosting yet another chess tournament for the CARICOM Region. Last year, the Secretariat collaborated with the GCF in hosting the Inaugural Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Classic Chess Tournament under the umbrella of the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of CARICOM and this year, we are pleased to once again welcome the nine teams from eight territories in the CARICOM Region that have journeyed to Guyana to do battle for chess supremacy.

The Secretariat is thrilled to collaborate with the Federation to execute this event. We are keen on exploring how this partnership can be strengthened and integrated into the wider programmatic and strategic activities associated with the Community’s Sport Development Programme.

I wish to also commend the Pegasus Hotel Guyana and all sponsors for placing their support behind this initiative. The successful execution of this event truly is a demonstration of the role that partnerships can play in accelerating sport development in the Region.

The Caribbean Community places strong emphasis on sport as a vector of change in the Region. The Secretariat’s Sport Development Programme is strategically moving to mobilise partners across the Region in an effort to strengthen the governance of the sector and widen the spectrum of sports available to youth. We all know that participation in sport serves as a vehicle to mitigate against crime and other antisocial behaviour, especially amongst youth. I therefore urge not only the participants, but the organizers of this tournament to continue the effort to ensure that the young citizens of our beloved Caribbean continue to use sport and in this particular instance, Chess, as a means of remaining gainfully engaged, gain useful life skills and values, strengthen bonds, and impact positively on our nations.

Ladies and gentlemen, the initiative that we are gathered here to get underway is a consequential one. Given the rising concerns with youth disengagement in the Region and the persistent productivity gaps when compared with the rest of the world, mind sports, such as chess, offer solutions – if we are able to leverage them effectively.

So, this event goes beyond bragging rights and chess mastery. I do not think I exaggerate when I say that this Tournament is also about securing the region’s future through youth development.

It is now well known that there are various cognitive and non-cognitive benefits of chess. Chess promotes mental focus, strategic thinking, cognitive agility, impulse control, and a greater capacity to make decisions in the face of ambiguity.

The skills learned through chess are transferable to domains such as socio-affective development, memory and creativity, visuo-spatial abilities, problem-solving abilities, and even reductions in risk-aversion.

Not only has chess been associated with increased intelligence and academic performance, but its characteristics as a cognitively demanding game have also made it of high interest in educational spheres, youth engagement and in promoting mental well-being.

The CARICOM Secretariat is, therefore, happy to be partnering with Chess Federations and members of the Region’s sporting fraternity gathered here today, to explore how chess can be routinised as a sport to which all children have access from early and throughout the various stages of their development.

It is also important to explore how the Region’s policymakers and development specialists can partner to exploit the untapped opportunities for securing positive educational outcomes, strengthening community development and facilitating greater youth engagement through chess.

The Secretariat expresses well wishes to all the players and teams who are here to participate in this Tournament, and I look forward to seeing the knock-on effects that this year’s tournament will likely catalyse.

Thank you!

This meeting will take place alongside the Thirtieth Ordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council and the Tenth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), scheduled for May 29 and 30, 2025, in Cartagena de Indias and Montería, Colombia, respectively.

The meeting will be co-chaired by The Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Kitts and Nevis and Chair of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), and Her Excellency Laura Sarabia Torres, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia. This will be the first group meeting for CARICOM Foreign Ministers with Minister Sarabia Torres since she assumed her post in January 2025.

Previous engagements between CARICOM and Colombian Foreign Ministers in 2019 and 2022 focused on strengthening relations and cooperation in areas such as trade, transportation, culture, education, environment, climate change, disaster risk management, security, and addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. Joint Commissions have also been held to advance technical, cultural, educational, and sports cooperation.

The upcoming meeting is seen as a crucial opportunity to enhance dialogue and collaboration on political, economic, and cultural ties, especially given the current uncertain international environment. It also provides a platform for CARICOM to urge Colombia, in its roles as Chair of the ACS Ministerial Council and President Pro Tempore of CELAC, to continue advocating for the priorities of small and vulnerable states in the region.

Please read the Secretary-General’s message below:

This is the tenth year that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat and the Region are joining in the observance of Girls in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Day. For 2025, the CARICOM Girls in ICT Partnership celebrates International Girls in ICT Day, under the theme “Girls in ICT: Building CARICOM”.   

This theme underscores the importance of inclusion, participation, and leadership of our women and girls to shaping a resilient, innovative and competitive future. We celebrate the progress made in education, digital transformation and digital literacy, as a growing number of women and girls have forged new pathways as innovators of digital technology in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and the Arts (STEM/STEAM) in our Community.

We need to take advantage of widening opportunities to encourage more girls to engage in STEM and related career fields, and to ensure all our population is equally able to access jobs in automation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

CARICOM has prioritised digital skills development as part of the Regional Digital Resilience Strategic Framework. To ensure that digital transformation is inclusive, equitable and a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, requires continued collaboration between Governments, the private sector and civil society, to allow for pathways that ensure that future generations of girls participate in ICT, and have opportunities to assume leadership positions and contribute to a resilient, innovative and competitive future.

Let us reinforce our commitment to a future where technology is a catalyst for equality, opportunity, and empowerment for all.

Happy International Girls in ICT Day 2025!

“We were able to also take a report from the concerned parents with respect to CXC, and we’ve asked for them to meet with CXC to remove any misunderstanding and to improve the response to their concerns. In addition to that, the Community took a decision that the time has come for the establishment of a CARICOM Educational Transformation Commission.”

CARICOM leaders have decided to establish an Educational Transformation Commission. CARICOM Chair and Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley made the announcement at the culmination of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government in Barbados during the closing media conference.

In 2024, a representative for the Group of Concerned Parents of Barbados and the Caribbean Coalition for Exam Redress advocated for the need to analyse Barbadian pupils’ performance in light of a CXC report, which revealed a concerning fall in regional Mathematics proficiency.

Speaking to the media, the Chair highlighted the leaders’ decisive action.  “We were able to take a report from the concerned parents with respect to CXC, and we’ve asked for them to meet with CXC to remove any misunderstanding…to improve the response to their concerns. In addition to that, the Community took a decision that the time had come now for the establishment of a CARICOM Educational Transformation Commission,” explained the Chair.

“We all accept that our educational systems are not fit for purpose.”

The Chair emphasised that leaders agreed the current systems were not aligned with the Region’s education goals. “They were designed for a colonial period with a hierarchical structure that only saw a few of our people. If we are to be able to ensure that we produce citizens fit for the time with the appropriate social and emotional learning targets, it is now,” asserted the Barbados Prime Minister.

The terms of reference and the composition of the Commission will be completed soon.

View the Chair’s comments below:

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, Dr Barnett highlighted this year’s Anniversary theme, Douvan Ansanm-Health and Well-Being for a Prosperous Nation, which reflects Saint Lucia’s commitment to the holistic development of its people, and the essential link between a healthy population and national prosperity.

The Secretary-General commended Saint Lucia’s advancements in education, healthcare, and sustainable development as well as its efforts to preserve its unique heritage and promote cultural diversity.

She also noted the country’s leadership in environmental protection, including the preservation of marine and forest ecosystems and its active role in global climate change initiatives.

“The Caribbean Community acknowledges Saint Lucia’s contributions to the regional integration movement as a committed Member of CARICOM. On this Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence, I reaffirm the commitment of the Caribbean Community to continue working alongside the Government and People of Saint Lucia in pursuit of a prosperous and secure future for all,” Dr Barnett said in her message.

The full message reads as follows:

“Prime Minister, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), I am pleased to convey my warmest congratulations to the Government and People of Saint Lucia on your Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence.

Your celebration under this year’s theme, “Douvan Ansanm-Health and Well-Being for a Prosperous Nation”, underscores Saint Lucia’s commitment to the holistic development of its People, and the vital connection between a healthy populace and national prosperity. Moreover, this year’s inspiring independence anthem by the artist, Sylvinus Charles, serves as a powerful reminder of the exceptional creativity, pride, shared history and aspirations that unite all Saint Lucians.  

This milestone allows for reflections on Saint Lucia’s remarkable journey of growth and development, and the significant strides made in sectors such as education, healthcare, and sustainable development. We commend your nation’s efforts in preserving your unique heritage and promoting cultural diversity. Moreover, Saint Lucia has emerged as a leader in environmental protection, actively safeguarding its marine and forest ecosystems, and championing global initiatives to combat climate change. 

The Caribbean Community acknowledges Saint Lucia’s contributions to the regional integration movement as a committed Member of CARICOM. On this Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence, I reaffirm the commitment of the Caribbean Community to continue working alongside the Government and People of Saint Lucia in pursuit of a prosperous and secure future for all. May your celebrations be filled with peace, joy and unity as you mark the achievements and rich heritage of Saint Lucia.”

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CARICOM SG delivering remarks at the virtual accreditation ceremony

She also referenced Dr. Jean-Jacques’ appointment to the CARICOM Committee of Ambassadors, stating,

“Today marks your appointment to the CARICOM Committee of Ambassadors, which provides strategic advice, recommendations, and support to the Community Council of Ministers. Members of the Committee of Ambassadors have a key role in implementing Community decisions at the national level. Implementation by and in Member States is the crucial step which ensures that Community decisions have a positive impact on the citizens of the Community.”

Underscoring the importance of this role in strengthening the CARICOM identity, the Secretary-General added,

“When Members of the CARICOM Committee of Ambassadors engage with citizens to promote the objectives, programmes and benefits of CARICOM, there is greater knowledge of the important link between regional and national interests, which is essential to fostering a strong sense of Community and strengthening the CARICOM identity.”

Dr. Jean-Jacques expressed Dominica’s commitment to collaborating with CARICOM on issues like climate change, renewable energy, food security, housing, education, health, cost of living, and sustainable finance.

“One common denominator in addressing all these issues is the fast-changing geopolitical configurations. They create real challenges to our ability to achieve our common development goals and secure prosperity and wellbeing for our people. Yet, this reality creates new opportunities for CARICOM,” the new Dominican envoy stated. He added,

“We must now strategise to reconfigure our networks, intra-CARICOM and extra-CARICOM, so that we develop new and sustained avenues of resources and political support. This in no way suggests that we abandon our traditional friends, but instead, as Dominica has shown, CARICOM member states must quickly embrace opportunities that exist among ourselves and create new partnerships with States and entities that share our goals and values. Let us consider such a strategy as part of a first step towards our sustainability and the political consolidation of the Community.”

The CARICOM Secretary-General also recently accredited His Excellency Ruslan Rzayev, new Ambassador of Azerbaijan to CARICOM.

New envoy of Azerbaijan to CARICOM displaying his Letters of Credence during the virtual accreditation ceremony

During an interaction following the virtual accreditation, they discussed advancing CARICOM-Azerbaijan cooperation in climate resilience, economic development, and education.

Dr Barnett expressed the Community’s appreciation to Azerbaijan for its financial support to Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl’s in those Member States, mid-2024.

“On this International Day of Education, it is useful to remind ourselves that, despite the intensification of AI, it remains true that the quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers.  The Caribbean Community welcomes the potential of AI to transform many aspects of education and looks forward to a future in which AI complements the essential human elements of the teaching and learning process.”

Davion Leslie, Programme Manager, Human Resource Development (with responsibility for Education), CARICOM Secretariat.

On 24 January, the CARICOM Secretariat will join the world in a significant celebration: the International Day of Education. This year’s theme underscores the crucial role of our educators in using new technologies to improve how we learn and evolve as a Community while maintaining a human-centred learning environment.

“On this International Day of Education, it is useful to remind ourselves that, despite the intensification of AI, it remains true that the quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers,” stated Davion Leslie, Programme Manager, Human Resource Development (with responsibility for Education) at the CARICOM Secretariat. 

His sentiments were echoed by Jennifer Britton, Deputy Programme Manager, Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) at the CARICOM Secretariat, who advocated for safeguarding the independence of educators and students in the rise of AI.

She underscored, “As we reflect on the theme for this year’s observance…and as educational environments become more automated and computerised, safeguarding students, educators, and society’s independence becomes paramount.”

Click below to hear more of their perspectives.

Click here for more on how AI can be used for education.

“Now is surely an opportune time to transform our education system into one that has greater levels of resilience and delivers lessons that create a climate-aware citizenry. I am optimistic that decisions we will make in this Meeting will serve to secure these and other important outcomes.”

Monday, 28 October 2024 (CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown): Chair of the 48th Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) – Education and Grenada’s Minister of Education, Senator the Honourable David Andrew, has highlighted adapting to changing technology, the need for education transformation and the threat of climate change as some of the critical areas of focus for the education sector.

Minister Andrew made these comments during the 48th COHSOD Education, hosted by the CARICOM Secretariat in Trinidad and Tobago from 24 to 25 October. The Meeting provided a platform for stakeholders in the education sector to discuss the challenges, learning gaps and threats to the quality of education, such as the impact of climate change on education systems.

The Impact of Climate Change

“The urgent challenge we have in this Meeting is developing an answer to the question- how do we ensure that our education system is responding to the immediate realities that we face?” I ask this question as an Education Minister who is now rebuilding and/or repairing 15 schools that experienced varying levels of damage due to the passage of Hurricane Beryl on 1 July,” stated Minister Andrew.  He also expressed solidarity with other Member States recovering from Beryl’s destruction.

The Meeting Chair advocated for regional collaboration to transform the education system into one that is resilient to the impact of climate change and offers better opportunities and outcomes for the People of the Caribbean Community.

“Now is surely an opportune time to transform our education system into one that has greater levels of resilience and delivers lessons that create a climate-aware citizenry. I am optimistic that decisions we will make in this Meeting will serve to secure these and other important outcomes,” added the Chair.

Paradigm Shift towards Education Transformation

In her remarks, CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Foreign and Community Relations, Elizabeth Solomon, said that the Region agrees on a paradigm shift to align its education sector with the global agenda for education transformation. 

She stated, “The [CARICOM] Secretariat has an ambitious mandate to implement the 2030 Strategy, but we look to your support as we review to make the necessary adjustments to meet our target of 2030 and beyond. Based on assessments thus far, we all agree on the need for a paradigm shift and for the Caribbean Community to embrace and keep in step with the global agenda for transformation of our education system.”

She added that one of the key drivers would be repositioning the education system to respond to 2030 challenges. As a result, education stakeholders are asked to re-examine the Region’s education standards and the issues that affect student learning.

CARICOM Secretariat Interventions for Education Transformation

ASG Solomon also highlighted the CARICOM Secretariat’s successful interventions for the education sector.  “Over the past year, we lay claim to some major accomplishments as a result of the support provided by Member States, partners and international donors. We continue to build strong partnerships, which have yielded positive results. In collaboration with The University of the West Indies, Organisation of Easter Caribbean States (OECS) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the CARICOM Secretariat launched Cohort 2 of the Learning Recovery and Enhancement Programme, known as “Let’s REAP”, for Caribbean schools. Two thousand two hundred and forty-nine (2249) educators from 16 Member States and Associate Members are enrolled in this cohort, which commenced on 25 March 2024 and was completed in July 2024.  Fifteen Thousand (15,000) educators – teachers, principals, and Ministry of Education officials are targeted for further training,” stated the CARICOM ASG.   

She also highlighted the Digitalisation of TVET Delivery Project as another successful initiative.  She noted that the Project is establishing a regional digital platform that supports the digitalisation of TVET delivery across CARICOM Member States.

Digital Education

During her opening remarks, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Education, Dr the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, advocated for a tailored approach to the Region’s digital education gap.  “It is not enough for us to deliver the basic tenets of literacy and numeracy. In this dynamic world, we must equip our citizens with the skills and values needed to move through this revolving digital economy. We in the Caribbean face unique challenges that require tailored solutions. So, whether we are grappling with the widening educational gaps post-pandemic, the migration of skilled talent, or the pressure to revitalise our [Technical and Vocational Education and Training] TVET systems to meet the demands of the 21st-century workforce, our responses must be deliberate and unified. COHSOD provides us with the ideal forum to exchange ideas, craft policies, and strengthen the networks that bind us as Caribbean brothers and sisters,” stated the Minister.

CARICOM Ministers of Education, chief education officers, chief technical experts and other regional stakeholders participated in the two-day session. Regional and international partners, the Caribbean Association of National Training Authorities (CANTA), the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Commonwealth Secretariat, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and The University of the West Indies (UWI) also contributed.

Additional Information:

The Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) promotes human and social development. Specifically, Article 17 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas states the Council, which consists of Ministers designated by the Member States, will promote the development of education through the efficient organisation of educational and training facilities in the Community, including elementary and advanced vocational training and technical facilities.