The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission has issued a formal statement expressing unwavering solidarity with the governments and citizens of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica following the United States’ decision to revoke visa privileges for certain categories of their nationals. While acknowledging America’s sovereign right to implement immigration and border security policies, the regional body emphasized the need to consider such measures within the context of the historically cooperative relationship between the Caribbean and the US.
The OECS highlighted the substantial contributions of Caribbean nationals to American society, noting their integral role in healthcare, education, construction, entrepreneurship, and public service. The diaspora from these nations has consistently demonstrated law-abiding behavior and civic engagement, strengthening communities across the United States.
Economic interdependence between the Eastern Caribbean and the US was underscored, with the United States remaining a primary trading partner, investor, tourism source market, and development ally. These connections are maintained through continuous diplomatic engagement, private-sector collaboration, and structured dialogue on shared concerns including financial integrity and border security.
Regarding Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIPs), the OECS revealed that member states have been actively engaged in technical, solutions-oriented discussions with US agencies and international partners. Significant progress has been made in enhancing due-diligence systems, improving information-sharing protocols, tightening eligibility standards, and establishing a regional independent regulatory authority to ensure compliance with international best practices.
The organization emphasized that for small island developing states, CIPs represent crucial lawful instruments for financing resilience-building, disaster adaptation, and sustainable development without creating debt. These programs have supported critical public investments in infrastructure, education, health systems, renewable energy, and social resilience—areas that directly contribute to regional and hemispheric stability.
The OECS respectfully urged consideration of the unique vulnerabilities and limited economic diversification options available to small Western Hemisphere states. The commission advocated for a collaborative, consultative approach grounded in dialogue and shared responsibility as the most effective pathway to addressing security concerns while preserving long-standing partnerships.
Reaffirming its commitment to continued engagement with the US government, the OECS expressed confidence that through sustained dialogue and evidence-based collaboration, solutions could be developed that balance security objectives with the developmental realities of small, open economies. The organization stands firmly with Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, reiterating its collective resolve to maintain the Eastern Caribbean as a region defined by good governance and constructive international engagement.
