CARICOM to convene regional meeting on issues affecting Rastafarians
Key Points(5)
- The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is preparing to convene a regional meeting involving Member States and key stakeholders to examine ongoing issues affecting Rastafarians across the region, amid concerns over persistent discrimination and marginalisation.
- The decision was taken at the Forty-second Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, held on May 8, 2026.
- Member States acknowledged that Rastafarians continue to face exclusion in areas such as education, employment, and broader public life, and reaffirmed the need to ensure the full recognition and protection of their rights as equal members of society.
- Leaders also agreed to establish a committee comprising representatives from Barbados, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.
- The group will advance discussions on issues affecting Rastafarians at both regional and international levels.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is preparing to convene a regional meeting involving Member States and key stakeholders to examine ongoing issues affecting Rastafarians across the region, amid concerns over persistent discrimination and marginalization.
The decision was taken at the Forty-second Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, held on May 8, 2026.
Member States acknowledged that Rastafarians continue to face exclusion in areas such as education, employment, and broader public life, and reaffirmed the need to ensure the full recognition and protection of their rights as equal members of society.
Leaders also agreed to establish a committee comprising representatives from Barbados, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. The group will advance discussions on issues affecting Rastafarians at both regional and international levels.
During the meeting, heads of government highlighted several national initiatives already implemented to address historical injustices. These include official public apologies, land grants, and legislation aimed at protecting individuals from workplace discrimination.
Officials said these measures represent examples of progressive policy approaches that could help shape a coordinated regional framework going forward.
