CARICOM Adopts Montego Bay Declaration on Crime, Commits to Expedite Implementation of CSME

The curtains closed on the 49th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government with the adoption of a declaration on organised crime and gangs, commitments to speed up implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), among other objectives.

“We adopted the ‘Montego Bay Declaration on Transnational Organised Crime and Gangs’ underscoring our united stance against criminal networks,” said Prime Minister of Jamaica and CARICOM Chair, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, at the closing press conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre on Tuesday (July 8).

He noted that a “secure CARICOM is a viable CARICOM”, and as such, security is being prioritised.

On the CSME, Dr. Holness indicated that Heads of Government agreed that the pace and scope of implementation was moving “too slowly” and committed to action.

“We agreed that we will do everything in our power to speed up implementation. I’m pleased to share that we are now moving from applying administratively, the protocol on enhanced cooperation, which all member states have signed, with now four countries – Barbados, Belize, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dominica, reiterating their willingness to implement full free movement under the protocol starting October 1, 2025,” the Prime Minister outlined.

He noted that Jamaica remains committed to implementing full free movement in accordance with the treaty amendments and is examining ways to speed up the implementation.

“The fact is that, due to our legislative framework and other considerations, we have had to move with greater consideration. However, it is our intention to speed up the implementation of full free movement,” Dr. Holness affirmed.

He indicated that within the framework of the existing skills regime, CARICOM Heads have agreed to add aviation personnel to the approved list of skilled categories.

“It is worth noting that Jamaica contributed three new occupations to the list, namely, photogrammetry, field maintenance personnel and aircraft maintenance personnel,” the Prime Minister pointed out.

In reference to issues impacting regional trade, including the expected imposition of reciprocal tariffs by the United States, the Prime Minister noted that the External Trade Negotiations Committee, which he leads, continues to monitor the developments in the trade space as it seeks to develop a collective strategic response to the issues.

He noted that Heads also discussed deepening and diversifying CARICOM bilateral trade relations with several traditional and non-traditional partners.

On the issue of regional transportation, Dr. Holness shared that the leaders agreed to establish a committee, to be led by the Prime Ministers of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Barbados, and the President of Guyana, to review presentations on ferries and report back to Heads.

The issue of legislation for online safety and protection of young people from online abuse, cyber bullying and exploitation was also considered and will be addressed by CARICOM.

“In recognition of the importance of this issue, we have mandated the legal affairs committee to look at a proposal for a model law for the digital safety of Caribbean people, following the consultations and discussions that were held,” Prime Minister Holness informed.

Meanwhile, he noted that the 49th Regular Meeting allowed CARICOM the opportunity to renew commitments with two international agencies.

“We welcomed, as one of our special guests, His Excellency, Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary General of Interpol, and committed to strengthening cooperation and expanding access to its global resources. We also welcomed the Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS) His Excellency, Albert Ramdin, and explored avenues for renewed cooperation with the OAS,” Dr. Holness shared.

He said that Heads also approved the region’s climate priorities and the revised framework for building climate resilience 2025-2030, to ensure that the Caribbean speaks with one voice on climate financing and adaptation.

“In November 2025, all roads will lead to Belém, Brazil, for the United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference, that is COP 30. As small states, we continue to have a vested interest in building climate resilience,” the Prime Minister affirmed.

He thanked his colleague Heads of Government, delegations from the member states and associate members of CARICOM, the CARICOM Secretariat, international partners and other stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the summit.

Dr. Holness affirmed that over the three-day meeting from July 6 to 8, CARICOM Heads of Government addressed several critical issues of urgent regional priority and reaffirmed their commitment to deliver tangible results for the people of the Community.

The 49th Regular Meeting of CARICOM was held under the theme ‘People, Partnerships, Prosperity – Promoting a Secure and Sustainable Future’.