As we celebrate the anniversary of CARICOM’s establishment, the GAWU takes this opportunity to extend warm greetings to all CARICOM nationals across the Caribbean region and the Diaspora.
Throughout its history, CARICOM has been fundamentally grounded in the collective pursuit of key objectives outlined in the CARICOM Treaty. These objectives encompass the enhancement of living and labour standards, the coordinated pursuit of sustainable economic development, the broadening of trade and economic partnerships with third-party nations, the elevation of international competitiveness, the facilitation of increased production and productivity, the alignment of foreign policies, and the continual enhancement of the framework for functional cooperation.
As the community celebrates fifty-one (51) years since its establishment, 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 to Guyana and Suriname in 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 has persevered and remained resolute.
CARICOM has played a pivotal role in fostering unity among the people of the region and has been instrumental in providing support during times of adversity. Based in Guyana, CARICOM has notably contributed to upholding democratic values in the face of challenges, and we express our enduring gratitude to CARICOM and its partners for their unwavering commitment to preserving freedom and democracy within our nation. Looking ahead, the significance of CARICOM’s role is poised to grow even further. The imminent challenges posed by climate change and the far-reaching impacts of global economic uncertainties have affected numerous Caribbean nations. Consequently, CARICOM is poised to assume a critical function in leveraging the intellectual and labour potential of the region to build a more robust, sustainable, and resilient community. This aligns with the original vision of the founding members, a principle that continues to guide us in the present day.
Despite our differing opinions, we can make a conscious effort to focus on our common ground. It is our hope that we will continue working together as a united community to make a positive impact on the global community in every way possible.
Happy CARICOM Day!
