European Commission and United Nations Commit to Supporting Caricom’s Development

In light of the dismantling of support agencies such as USAID, the European Commission and the United Nations have reaffirmed their support for CARICOM. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised his continued commitment as one of the region’s strongest allies. He reiterated that the UN stands behind CARICOM’s efforts to tackle issues such as crime and regional security. Guterres also used the platform to continue advocating for climate action, particularly from larger nations. He expressed sympathy for the Caribbean, which contributes the least to global carbon emissions yet suffers the most from the climate crisis. He stressed the need for countries to fulfil their commitments to the Loss and Damage Fund, which can provide critical support to the region during hurricanes and other climate-related disasters. Gutterres believes CARICOM is best poised to advance global advocacy for climate action. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting the Caribbean in developing its renewable energy sector and enhancing climate change mitigation efforts. She also pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the Caribbean’s vulnerability in accessing medicine. In response, the European Commission is assisting the region in establishing its own pharmaceutical industry, starting in Barbados and Guyana. The European Commission also pledged to enhance the region’s internet connectivity through its satellite technology. They believe this initiative will help drive the Caribbean’s digital transformation.