Bermuda, the British Overseas Territory, is pushing for full membership within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
However, while it seeks to integrate more closely with the regional bloc, Bermuda is clear that it does not intend to participate in the region’s initiative for the free movement of nationals across member states, scheduled to commence on March 31 of this year.
Premier David Burt, representing Bermuda at the recent 46th regular summit of regional leaders in Guyana, emphasized that full membership does not automatically entail freedom of movement for citizens of other member states to Bermuda.
Burt underlined that the issue of free movement is a matter of topical concern domestically and clarified that Bermuda, due to its size, does not foresee opening its borders.
Clarifying the scope of membership
The CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) aims to facilitate the free movement of goods, skills, labor, and services across member states. However, the free movement of nationals, a pivotal aspect of the CSME, is not universally applicable.
Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, highlighted that countries not part of the CSME are not subject to its provisions regarding free movement.
Mitchell further elaborated that among CSME member states, there are discussions regarding exemptions and extended timelines for compliance with the free movement initiative.
While the specifics of these exemptions are yet to be finalized, CARICOM remains committed to the March 31 deadline.
Continued sovereignty and discussions on free movement
Despite the push for regional integration, CARICOM reaffirms the sovereignty of its member states. Discussions on free movement aim to extend beyond current limitations and establish minimum rights for citizens of other member states.
The recent summit underscored the commitment of CARICOM leaders to expedite the objectives of a single market, including efforts to facilitate free movement and harmonize business laws.
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