The Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) is calling on all CARICOM member states to move towards full implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
A statement by General Secretary Michael Annisette comes in the wake of full free movement among Barbados, Belize, Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines which went into effect on October 1.
“This progressive step gives real meaning to the vision of regional integration, unity, and social justice embedded in the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. It marks a defining moment in our journey toward a truly borderless Caribbean, where citizens can move, work, and live freely across our region,” the statement said.
“While the CCL notes that full free movement rights are not yet embraced by all CARICOM Member States, we extend our deep appreciation to the four governments for their visionary leadership. Their example reaffirms that our Caribbean is stronger together, and that integration must remain people-centered, grounded in solidarity and the dignity of work.”
Annisette noted the region has a combined population of nearly 20 million citizens with about six million more in the diaspora, providing access to vast human and creative capital.
“Yet, intra-regional migration remains limited to specific skills categories, preventing many Caribbean workers from fully contributing to regional growth and development.
“The Caribbean stands at a crossroads. The path to resilience and sustainable development demands unity of purpose, shared responsibility, and social justice. A strong CARICOM cannot rest on market forces alone it must also uphold the movement of people and the solidarity of its citizens.”
Annisette said the CCL reaffirmed its commitment to work with CARICOM Governments, the CARICOM Secretariat, the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation and civil society to ensure that “free movement delivers tangible benefits for workers and their families”. (PR/SAT)
