In a landmark development for Caribbean integration, Barbados has granted indefinite stay and employment rights to ten CARICOM nationals under its newly enacted Full Free Movement Regime. Ambassador to CARICOM David Comissiong announced this historic milestone on Tuesday, marking a significant step forward in regional cooperation. The beneficiaries, hailing from Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines, were among 99 residents who arrived in Barbados last Wednesday, the inaugural day of the initiative. Statistics reveal that Vincentians constitute the majority of new immigrants, with 75 arriving on the first day, compared to 17 from Dominica and seven from Belize. While the new arrivals are entitled to live and work indefinitely, they must reside in Barbados for at least three years before gaining voting rights, as stipulated by Commonwealth migration laws. Ambassador Comissiong emphasized that this initiative is a critical breakthrough in the decades-long effort to establish the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), enabling Caribbean nations to pool resources and compete effectively in the global market. The regime excludes individuals deemed a threat to national security or public health, as well as those likely to burden public finances. Comissiong highlighted the broader context of the initiative, addressing the ‘brain drain’ phenomenon and demographic challenges facing Barbados, including an ageing population and low birth rates. He urged Caribbean nations to create an attractive environment for youth to remain and contribute to regional development, calling for complementary initiatives to enhance the appeal of the Caribbean community.
CARICOM nationals claim right to live and work in Barbados under freedom of movement regime
