As Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness concludes his tenure as CARICOM president, he has outlined significant regional accomplishments while emphasizing the Caribbean community’s intensified focus on Haiti’s stabilization. The leadership transition, scheduled for January with Saint Kitts and Nevis assuming the pro tempore presidency, marks a pivotal moment for regional cooperation.
In his valedictory address, Holness highlighted several landmark achievements during his presidency. The Caribbean Community demonstrated exceptional solidarity during Hurricane Melissa, showcasing the region’s collective disaster response capabilities. A historic integration milestone was reached with Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines implementing full free movement of citizens among themselves since October 1, 2025. This ‘concentric circles’ approach mirrors successful integration models globally, enabling willing nations to deepen cooperation while maintaining flexibility for other members to join when prepared.
Haiti emerged as a central focus of CARICOM’s diplomatic efforts, with sustained advocacy resulting in substantial international engagement. The community’s persistent diplomacy contributed to the UN Security Council establishing a Gang Suppression Force (GSF), partially funded by United Nations resources including equipment, infrastructure, and logistical support. CARICOM has now become an essential partner in the tripartite coordination of the Organization of American States’ Roadmap toward Stability and Peace in Haiti, with optimistic projections for free and fair elections in 2026.
The Caribbean Community reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the region as a Zone of Peace, grounded in respect for international law and peaceful conflict resolution. While acknowledging that member states may occasionally express divergent national perspectives, Holness emphasized that such diversity strengthens rather than weakens the community’s collective mandate, economic interdependence, and organic people-to-people connections that transcend temporary challenges.