The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), recently convened a two-day advisory group meeting in Bridgetown to refine the CARICOM Regional Migration Policy Framework (CRMPF). Held on October 8, 2025, the meeting brought together representatives from CARICOM Member States, development partners, civil society, and the United Nations to establish clear priorities and streamline actions for effective migration management. Sherwin Toyne-Stephenson, Programme Manager for Crime and Security at CARICOM, emphasized the historical significance of migration in the Caribbean, stating that ‘migration has always been a part of our story.’ He highlighted the importance of Member States’ involvement in shaping the policy to achieve strategic development outcomes. The CARICOM Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe, orderly, and regular migration, particularly for vulnerable populations. Patrice Quesada, IOM’s Coordinator for the Caribbean, stressed the urgency of a regional approach, noting that sustainable development in CARICOM is inseparable from migration. Simon Springett, UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, underscored the Framework’s role in aligning migration with sustainable development goals. The workshop was funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and supported by the European Union and the United Nations Network on Migration. The next steps include reviewing the draft policy framework with CARICOM Member States, marking a pivotal milestone in regional migration policy development.
CARICOM Secretariat Hosts Advisory Group Meeting to Advance Regional Migration Policy Framework
