Uniting Against Urgent Challenges: CARICOM Leaders Kick Off 48th Conference with Pledge for Collaborative Action on Food Security, Water Safety, Crime Prevention, and Climate Change

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Feb 20 (IPS) – Caribbean leaders are gathered in Barbados from February 19-21 to discuss pressing issues like climate change, food insecurity, and geopolitical tensions. This important meeting comes at a time when many parts of the world face significant challenges.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley emphasized the need for unity among the CARICOM nations. She stated, “We will only get through these tough times if we stand together and are bold.” Mottley expressed the scholars’ awareness of the harsh realities of climate change, sharing how summers often fill them with anxiety about natural disasters.

In her address, Mottley called on fellow leaders to create a unified approach to the challenges ahead. She highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable communities from climate-related impacts, which are critical issues for the Caribbean.

Outgoing CARICOM Chairman and Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell remarked on the importance of each member nation, saying, “If you don’t think that Barbados or Dominica is worth fighting for, then I don’t know what is.” This sentiment reinforces the shared commitment among leaders to advocate for their respective islands.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres joined the discussions, urging for a global response to interlinked crises such as economic instability from COVID-19 and escalating living costs. He noted, “International solutions are crucial for a better future. We have made commitments, but we need action.” Guterres also emphasized that a united Caribbean is vital for achieving these goals.

European Union President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this call for collaboration. She stated that the age where larger nations overshadow smaller countries is over. Von der Leyen recognized the direct links between climate change and the survival of Caribbean nations, insisting that smaller islands deserve a significant voice in global forums.

The theme of this year’s CARICOM meeting, “Strength in Unity: Forging Caribbean Resilience, Inclusive Growth, and Sustainable Development,” encapsulates the leaders’ focus. Key topics for discussion include Food and Nutrition Security, the CARICOM Single Market, and Climate Change.

On February 21, a closing press conference is set to highlight the outcomes of these discussions and outline future steps.