The establishment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) through the Treaty of Chaguaramas on July 04, 1973, represented a bold step in the efforts to unite the people of the independent Caribbean in an effort to forge a common identity after centuries of colonization. Though not the first effort, CARICOM represents the most enduring measure to build a unified region.
As the community celebrates fifty (50) years since its establishment, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) takes the opportunity to extend to the people of the Caribbean best wishes and greetings. Indeed, in its half-a-century existence, CARICOM has taken bold steps to consolidate and strengthen our uniqueness as a region. The community, home to several million citizens, stretching from the Bahamas in the north and Guyana and Suriname to the south, has played a remarkable role in advancing the objectives and priorities of the Caribbean people. In that period, it has not been without challenges, but despite adversity, it persevered and remained resolute.
It has also enabled us to become closer as people, and we have grown to be our brothers and sisters keepers. In instances of disaster or other difficulties, CARICOM has ensured a regional response to minimise difficulties and truncated hardships. In Guyana, which is home to the Secretariat, CARICOM has played laudable roles in maintaining our democratic character, which has been challenged on several occasions. We remain eternally grateful to CARICOM and other partners for their steadfast interest in ensuring our country and people can live in a free and democratic society.
Looking to the future, we see CARICOM’s role becoming even more important. The challenges of climate change loom everpresent and threaten many Caribbean states. Similarly, difficulties in the global economy have seriously impacted the region. We also see CARICOM playing a critical role in harnessing the region’s intellect and labour power to build a stronger, resilient, sustainable region. Indeed, we believe was the intent of the founding members, a principle we subscribe to in our present times.
Once again, the GAWU best wishes and greetings and hearty congratulations to CARICOM on its milestone achievement.
