Government representatives from 12 Caribbean nations gathered in Barbados from October 30 to 31, 2025, to strengthen regional collaboration on climate resilience and sustainable land management. The meeting, organized in partnership with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), aimed to advance coordinated action in response to escalating climate challenges. This initiative follows decisions made at the 4th Ministerial Council of the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) in Grenada on June 18, 2025, where ministers emphasized the need for a robust regional framework to access global climate financing effectively. Hon. Adrian Forde, Chairman of the PISLM Ministerial Council and Barbados’ Minister of Environment and National Beautification, Blue and Green Economy, highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on the Caribbean. Despite contributing minimally to global emissions, the region faces severe losses in lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, and development gains. Minister Forde called for “concessional, rapid, and predictable finance” to address these challenges, citing the Bridgetown Initiative as a model for immediate resource access during crises. He also expressed solidarity with Jamaica, acknowledging the nation’s ongoing struggles and policy challenges. Dr. Ronen Francis, PISLM Executive Director, reiterated the organization’s commitment to restoring degraded lands, enhancing ecosystem services, and improving livelihoods. He emphasized the interconnected challenges faced by the region, including recent devastation in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Bahamas, as well as prolonged dry spells during the 2025 rainy season. Dr. Francis stressed the importance of collaboration among governments, development partners, and communities to achieve sustainable land management and drought resilience. The meeting also showcased progress in GEF-funded projects, including the SOILCARE initiative, Integrated Landscape Management in Carriacou, and the Caribbean Drought Initiative. PISLM continues to play a pivotal role in translating global environmental commitments into actionable local strategies, ensuring climate-resilient livelihoods and ecosystem restoration across the Caribbean.
Caribbean strengthens regional coordination on climate and land management finance
