As CARICOM leaders prepare to convene at the Barbados summit, a critical debate over free movement in the region is taking centre stage. Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, has made his position unequivocally clear: the privilege of free movement under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) must be extended to every Caribbean national, not just a select few.
The current framework, as it stands, restricts free movement to a narrow group—university graduates, artists, musicians, media professionals, sportspeople, nurses, teachers, artisans, holders of associate degrees, and domestic workers.
Critics argue that this approach creates an elitist system that excludes a large portion of the Caribbean population. Skerrit, however, insists that the region’s future depends on inclusive policies that enable all citizens to benefit from shared opportunities.
The Prime Minister, speaking at a press conference ahead of the summit, emphasized that integration must be truly universal. He asserted, “It should not be an elitist…it has to be about everybody.” For Skerrit, free movement is not merely a policy tool—it is a fundamental pillar of regional unity and economic growth. He stressed that every Caribbean nation should have the chance to contribute its skills and talents to the collective progress of the region, asserting, “Free movement is central to this”. Skerrit’s remarks come at a time when the Caribbean faces increasing economic and social challenges, from rising costs of living to the pressures of globalization.
The Prime Minister pointed out that if only a select few benefit from the current mobility provisions, the broader economic potential of CARICOM will remain untapped. He noted that ensuring all citizens have the ability to move freely within the region is vital for harnessing the full spectrum of talent and opportunity.
In his view, enhancing free movement could also help address the persistent brain drain by allowing skilled individuals to contribute to regional development rather than seeking opportunities abroad. As discussions continue at the upcoming summit, the issue of inclusive mobility remains a key agenda item. Skerrit’s stance reflects a broader commitment to reconfiguring intra-regional networks so that every Caribbean national can participate fully in economic, social, and cultural exchanges.
By advocating for a more inclusive approach, the Prime Minister hopes to set a new standard for regional cooperation—one where every Caribbean citizen can experience the benefits of free movement, fostering a stronger, more united community.
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