Antigua and Barbuda’s Contributions To CARICOM Hailed in Chairman’s End-of-Year Address

Among the highlights of 2024 was Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in May, where the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS was adopted. This 10-year program sets a comprehensive roadmap for tackling climate change, building economic resilience, and advancing sustainable development for small islands globally.

Prime Minister Mitchell commended Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership in these efforts, noting the importance of its contributions to addressing the shared challenges of the Caribbean.

CARICOM’s strength in unity was evident during this year’s Atlantic Hurricane Season, as Member States, including Antigua and Barbuda, rallied to support those impacted by Hurricane Beryl and other severe weather systems. The collective response underscored the region’s commitment to fostering a true “Community for All.”

CARICOM also made significant strides in addressing Haiti’s political and security crises. Through engagement led by the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group, key Haitian stakeholders reached consensus on forming a Transitional Presidential Council, appointing a Prime Minister, and welcoming the Multinational Security Support Mission to aid in restoring stability.

In July, CARICOM leaders, including Antigua and Barbuda, endorsed the Strategic Digital Resilience Framework 2030. This initiative aims to build a digitally capable and resilient region, crucial for navigating the accelerating pace of global and regional change.

Efforts to improve food security also gained traction. CARICOM introduced an agricultural insurance product for farmers and launched the CARICOM BOOST project, a $1.6 million initiative supporting women and youth in agriculture. A Regional Youth in Agriculture Strategy further enhanced education, capacity building, and market access for young farmers across the region.

To reduce food import costs and enhance regional trade, CARICOM focused on improving air and sea connectivity. The Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA) is now operational in nearly all Member States, leading to increased regional airlift. Additionally, a new ferry service connecting Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago has been announced, promising improved maritime transport.

On the issue of crime, the Second Regional Symposium on Crime and Violence, hosted in Guyana with leadership from Barbados, advanced critical discussions on preventative measures and successful interventions to address escalating violence in the Caribbean.

Antigua and Barbuda also played a role in fostering CARICOM’s global partnerships. The region engaged in high-level dialogues with India, Brazil, Canada, and Japan, while also representing Caribbean interests at COP29 in Azerbaijan, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, and the United Nations Summit of the Future.

As his tenure as CARICOM Chairman concludes, Prime Minister Mitchell praised Member States, including Antigua and Barbuda, for their unwavering support and contributions to advancing the region’s integration and development goals. He expressed confidence in incoming Chair Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados, stating that CARICOM’s trajectory toward resilience and unity remains strong.

Mitchell extended holiday wishes to the Community, highlighting the shared commitment to building a Caribbean that truly embodies “A Community for All.”

Founded in 1973, CARICOM represents 15 Member States and six Associate Members, with a population of approximately 16 million people. Anchored by the principles of economic integration, foreign policy coordination, human and social development, and security cooperation, CARICOM remains a global model of successful regional collaboration.

As CARICOM enters 2025 under Barbados’ leadership, the shared vision of integration and sustainability continues to guide its mission.

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