The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) remains committed to supporting Haiti, advocating for increased international funding for security and humanitarian relief, according to Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Foreign and Community Relations, Elizabeth Solomon.
Speaking ahead of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, scheduled for February 19-21 in Bridgetown, Barbados, ASG Solomon emphasized that Haiti remains a priority on the agenda.
While acknowledging the persistent challenges in Haiti, Solomon highlighted significant progress since the establishment of the Transitional Government.
“Positive things have happened since the Transitional Government was put in place. Yes, there are still many challenges—there’s no denying that—but there is forward movement, and CARICOM will discuss how best to continue its support,” she said.
A major milestone in CARICOM’s assistance has been the formation of the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), a key step in fostering Haitian-led solutions to the country’s crisis. This followed the High-Level Meeting on Haiti, convened by CARICOM in Jamaica on March 11, 2024, where Haitian stakeholders collectively committed to a peaceful political transition, security measures, and a roadmap to free and fair elections.
The TPC, officially established by decree on April 12, 2024, and sworn in on April 25, 2024, consists of seven voting members and two non-voting members, representing Haiti’s political parties, business sector, civil society, and interfaith organizations. The council is tasked with governing Haiti until an elected president is inaugurated on February 7, 2026.
Path to Haiti elections
In January 2025, Haiti’s Transitional Council President, Leslie Voltaire, announced on French television network TV5 Monde that general elections will be held on November 15, 2025, paving the way for a transition to an elected government in February 2026, in accordance with Haiti’s constitution.
ASG Solomon confirmed that, despite ongoing difficulties, election preparations have begun.
“CARICOM continues to support the people of Haiti, particularly through the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) and all that the Good Offices of the Secretariat can offer. The EPG remains engaged with stakeholders, who continue to request its involvement,” she said.
With Haiti’s future at a pivotal moment, CARICOM leaders will use the upcoming Bridgetown meeting to reassess and reinforce their commitment to the country’s stability and democratic transition.
