The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout 2025 while confronting unprecedented natural disasters and geopolitical pressures. The region faced catastrophic impacts from Hurricane Melissa, which inflicted severe damage across Jamaica and Haiti following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Beryl in 2024. These climate events resulted in significant loss of life and property, necessitating extensive recovery efforts that will demand substantial resources and time.
Despite these challenges, CARICOM member states have made significant strides in regional integration. Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines have initiated full free movement of persons among themselves, marking a crucial advancement in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework. This development promises to stimulate economic activity and enhance people-to-people connections throughout the region.
The community has also progressed substantially in developing a comprehensive Industrial Policy and Strategy, establishing foundations for strengthened productive capacity, innovation, and economic diversification. Agricultural initiatives under the 25 by 2025+ strategy showed production growth, though hurricane-related climate events created substantial setbacks for farming communities.
Cultural achievements flourished with CARIFESTA XV in Barbados celebrating the region’s vibrant artistic traditions, while democratic processes were upheld through peaceful general elections in seven Member States and five Associate Members. The community has maintained focus on human capital development, particularly supporting increased participation of youth and women in economic activities and decision-making processes.
Looking forward, CARICOM is examining artificial intelligence implications for regional business practices while working to expand physical and digital connectivity. Disaster resilience building and enhancing food security programs remain critical priorities. The outcomes from the 2025 Conference of Heads of Government meetings in Barbados and Jamaica demonstrate strategic commitment to addressing trade, regional security, reparations, governance, and climate change challenges.
CARICOM leadership acknowledges the contributions of regional citizens, Secretariat staff, international partners, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and the diaspora community. As the new year approaches, the community moves forward with renewed determination to achieve its vision of a resilient, prosperous, and united ‘Community for All’.