CARICOM leaders engage in ongoing talks on free and full movement of nationals
CARICOM leaders, gathered for their summit in Guyana earlier this year, were unable to finalize the arrangements for the free and full movement of CARICOM nationals by the anticipated deadline at the end of last month.
According to sources familiar with the matter, a decision was made during the recent virtual heads meeting to schedule a series of further discussions leading up to the next meeting in Grenada, aimed at addressing outstanding amendments to the treaty.
Initially, optimism prevailed after the summit in Guyana in February, where Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, overseeing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), expressed confidence in meeting the targets for free movement of CARICOM nationals.
However, as the anticipated mid-March meeting approached, it became evident that more time would be needed to iron out the details.
Challenges in achieving full free movement
The CSME, designed to facilitate the free movement of goods, skills, labor, and services across the region, faces hurdles in its implementation.
While certain categories of workers can move freely with a CARICOM Skills Certificate, others still require work permits, undermining the vision of seamless movement within the community.
Outstanding policy matters
At the heart of the delay lie two unresolved policy issues, referred to heads for resolution by the intergovernmental task force on free movement.
These matters, pivotal to operationalizing full free movement, were slated for discussion in early March, with hopes for resolution before the March 31st deadline.
Diverse perspectives among member states
Notably, Antigua and Barbuda have signaled a preference for maintaining the current skills regime, citing the need to safeguard the local labor market and economic stability.
Similarly, the Bahamas and Bermuda have indicated their reluctance to participate in the free movement initiative, underlining the diverse perspectives within the CARICOM community.
