Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis Dr. Terrance Drew, serving as Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), has declared the region stands at a critical juncture amid escalating global challenges. Addressing fellow leaders at the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on February 24, Dr. Drew outlined a precarious international landscape defined by geopolitical strife, volatile energy markets, supply chain disruptions, climate-induced disasters, and economic instability.
The CARICOM Chairman issued a stark warning that small island developing states face unprecedented risks of marginalization and fragmentation in this turbulent environment. He articulated a central philosophy guiding the regional body: “In such a world, fragmentation breeds vulnerability. By contrast, togetherness generates resilience.” This principle formed the foundational theme for high-level discussions throughout the week-long summit.
Dr. Drew emphasized that Caribbean resilience cannot be achieved through isolated national efforts but requires disciplined cooperation and unified determination. He highlighted that CARICOM’s core tenets—collaboration, functional integration, economic coordination, and collective self-reliance—were specifically designed to shield smaller nations from global shocks.
With persistent supply chain uncertainties and mounting external pressures, the Prime Minister asserted that deeper regional integration has evolved from desirable to absolutely vital. He called for deliberate collective action to enhance food and energy security, strengthen regional security partnerships, and coordinate economic strategies.
Drawing on historical precedent, Dr. Drew reminded attendees that the Caribbean has previously confronted and overcome adversity by leveraging shared institutions and maintaining a unified voice in international affairs. The 50th Regular Meeting served as a working session focused on substantive coordination, collective problem-solving, and reinforcing CARICOM’s structures for the benefit of all Caribbean citizens.