Dominica PM wants more CARICOM countries to join free movement initiative

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit expressed optimism Monday that additional Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries will follow Barbados, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Belize in implementing full free movement, a key feature of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

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Speaking at a news conference, Skerrit said, “I remain hopeful that other CARICOM countries will join us so that we can realize the full promise of a true Caribbean Community.” The initiative, set to take effect Wednesday, October 1, allows nationals of the four countries to move freely, live, work, and remain indefinitely in participating states without residency or work permits. They will also have access to public primary and secondary education, as well as emergency and primary healthcare.

Skerrit described the move as “a decisive step forward on a matter that has been on the regional agenda for decades,” and emphasized its mutual benefits. “Free movement allows us to fill gaps in critical areas, while giving our own citizens greater access to opportunities across the region. It is a win-win for all,” he said.

Acknowledging concerns about security and jobs, Skerrit reassured that regional cooperation, vetting, and security systems will remain strong. “We are not lowering our guard. We are removing unnecessary barriers that have, for too long, held back our collective progress,” he said.

The Prime Minister encouraged Dominicans to embrace the change, highlighting the opportunities it presents. “Learn as much as you can about what free movement means, and the opportunities it can bring for you and your families,” he added.

The Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat confirmed that the arrangement falls under the Enhanced Cooperation Chapter of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, which allows groups of member states to advance integration among themselves when broader regional objectives cannot be achieved quickly.

By opening borders for citizens across these four states, the initiative represents a historic step in advancing economic, social, and human integration within CARICOM.