- CARICOM Member States celebrate 53rd Anniversary
By Carla Barnett
I extend warm greetings as we mark the Fifty-Third Anniversary of our Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
CARICOM is a strong expression of collective determination to shape our own destiny. Through active collaboration and mutual support, we have strengthened economic partnerships and amplified CARICOM’s voice on issues of global importance.
The Community has advanced critical work across a range of areas vital to the well-being of our people. From strengthening regional security, emergency response and action on climate change, to improving public health and educational outcomes, and advancing other key pillars of regional development, collective efforts continue to reinforce the foundations of a safer, more resilient space for us to call home. In collaboration with relevant national bodies that lead on implementation in our member states, the Community’s decision-making bodies, the CARICOM Secretariat and our specialised institutions have been establishing the frameworks, safeguards, and initiatives necessary to promote growth and sustainable development.
CARICOM’s strength has always been rooted in shared purpose and the determination of our people to transcend the limitations of small size and limited resources. At home and abroad, CARICOM nationals continue to distinguish themselves and inspire in many fields, demonstrating remarkable creativity and purpose.
Even as we celebrate these successes, we are mindful of the pressures that challenge hard-won progress and unity. Consecutive years of record-breaking climatic events, including hurricanes, have devastated sectors critical to growth, such as agriculture and tourism. At the same time, the Region continues to navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment, marked by shifting economic realities and disruptions to international business.
CARICOM remains convinced that our advancement must continue to be driven by collective action as we confront these headwinds. Together, we are committed to making progress in the areas that matter, including expanding intra-regional trade, increasing employment, reducing our food import bill, reducing crime and violence, and adapting our built environment for climate resistance. Equally important are improving digital connectivity and transportation networks to facilitate seamless and affordable communication, and the movement of people and goods across our Community.
We remain ever mindful of the current and future needs of our young people, who deserve a region that is prosperous, technologically advanced, and full of opportunity.
May this anniversary inspire renewed confidence in the enduring value of regional unity and interdependence.
Happy CARICOM Day 2026!