The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has reinforced its commitment to accelerating digital transformation across member nations, recognizing its pivotal role in modernizing governance structures and stimulating economic advancement. This strategic focus has materialized through a collaborative initiative with the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), where digital evolution constitutes a fundamental pillar of national development policy.
A comprehensive two-day workshop convened in SVG brought together critical stakeholders from multiple governmental sectors including National Security, Immigration, Customs, Civil Registry, Electoral processes, and Health services. The session, supported by the European Union through the 11th EDF Regional Integration Through Growth, Harmonization, and Technology (RIGHT) project, focused on evaluating and strengthening the legal, policy, and governance frameworks essential for implementing advanced Civil Registration and Unique Identification (UID) systems.
Dr. Didacus Jules, OECS Director General, articulated the profound implications of digital transformation, stating: “This transition represents far more than technological enhancement—it signifies a fundamental restructuring of government-citizen interaction and service delivery mechanisms.” He emphasized that modernized registration systems establish the foundation for transparent, agile, and inclusive governance structures.
The workshop facilitated detailed consultations and expert-led discussions on emerging digital identification trends and optimal practices. Participants conducted thorough assessments of existing legislative frameworks while identifying areas requiring policy harmonization and modernization.
Concurrently, specialized equipment was formally transferred to SVG authorities to support the decentralization and efficient management of civil registration operations across both urban and rural communities. Winston George, Coordinator of the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP), highlighted the UID system’s strategic significance as “a cornerstone of Digital Public Infrastructure” that enables streamlined government operations and robust Know Your Customer processes across sectors.
Ms. Shernell Hadaway, representing the Attorney General’s office, emphasized the necessity of broad-based understanding and acceptance across government, civil society, and private sectors for successful system implementation.
This integrated approach—combining policy refinement, technological investment, and capacity building—marks a significant advancement in SVG’s digital transformation journey. The OECS Commission continues to collaborate with SVG and other member states to develop secure, interoperable systems that improve service accessibility, stimulate economic activity, and position Eastern Caribbean nations as digital governance innovators.