Free movement of all CARICOM nationals expected by March -Secretary-General says in end of year message

Dr. Carla N. Barnett

CARICOM’s Chair, Dr. Carla N. Barnett, has described 2023 as a landmark year for the Caribbean Community and she said that free movement of all CARICOM nationals as mandated by the Heads of Government is expected to be in place by March 2024.CARICOM this year marked the 50th Anniversary of the signing of the original Treaty of Chaguaramas with festivities across the Region. A press release from Barnett’s office said the Region’s 50th Anniversary occasion “allowed us to reflect on our accomplishments, and recommit to the vision of the CARICOM’s founders.” “The past 50 years,” the release continued, “have taught us that with collective action we can achieve significantly more. With one voice we decried the devastating wars that have precipitated humanitarian crises and signaled our support for the adherence to the fundamental principles of international law, respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity, most recently in the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy.” CARICOM, the release noted, also continued its strong advocacy for international support to help return Haiti, to peace and stability, and to support the War on Guns which is negatively impacting security across the Region.