The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Private Sector Organization (CPSO) says it enthusiastically support the decision of Dominica, Barbados, Belize, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to allow their nationals to enjoy free movement as of October 1.
‘The regional private sector has long advocated for the removal of barriers to the free movement of people within our region. This move by Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines demonstrates the kind of action-oriented leadership needed to make regional integration a lived reality for businesses, workers, and families,’ said CPSO chief executive officer, Dr. Patrick Antoine.
‘As long as a regional vision and planning is put in place, there will be greater job opportunities from the CSME (Caribbean Single Market and Economy), as investment increases to take advantage of resources available all across the region,’ he added.
The four CARICOM countries decided to forge ahead with full-fledged free movement under the CSME that allows for the free movement of goods, skills, labour and services, while other members of the 15-member integration movement work through their reservations.
The free movement means that as of October 1, except where prohibited on the grounds prescribed by law, such as national security concerns, citizens of the four countries can travel to and work in each other’s countries for an unlimited period of time and can work on arrival, without needing a work permit.
They would also not need a CARICOM Skills Certificate, which previously defined the categories of workers who could move among the bloc and live and work indefinitely Free movement.
The CPSO said that by allowing goods, services, capital, and skilled labour to circulate freely, the CARICOM region aims to create a more dynamic and resilient economic space. It said it regards this move as a signal of a deeper commitment to a unified economic environment, where firms can scale operations, invest, and innovate more effectively across member states.
The CPSO said that stakeholders agree that the potential for labour mobility to enhance economic opportunity is significant. It opens pathways for skilled professionals to seek employment in areas of greater need, thereby boosting productivity and fostering economic diversification.
Additionally, a larger, more integrated market encourages investment and innovation, which are vital for sustaining long-term growth.
The CPSO said that while the prospects are promising, the transition to full free movement also presents certain social and economic challenges.
It said a 2007 pilot study assessing the impact of labour mobility within the sub-group of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), where aspects of cross-country movement have been in operation for over a decade, revealed that while 60 per cent of people questioned at the time were open to temporary relocation for work, only 17 per cent were willing to move permanently.
‘As free movement for all CARICOM territories continues to be a gradual process, there were salient concerns unearthed by the study, which could take time to dissolve. For instance, there was uncertainty about the region having to contend with potential negative impacts, such as increased crime rates and fraudulent activities, on a long-term basis, with the only solution seeming to lie in ironing out hiccups along the way.’
The CPSO said that economic threats identified by the study included downward pressure on wages, job displacement, and the risk of capital flight as profits and remittances are sent abroad.
It said many people in the region also reported fears that unskilled workers might accept low-paying jobs, leading to the development of slums and a reduction in living standards in their home country.
‘Another notable concern that people expressed was the possibility of an influx of foreigners competing for land. Namely, that this would drive property prices upward, making land less affordable for locals, while some countries risk experiencing a ‘brain drain’ if skilled professionals seek opportunities elsewhere.
‘The potential for businesses to relocate within the region to capitalise on lower costs was also noted as a risk, which could inadvertently lead to unemployment in the originating country.’
Despite this, the CPSO said that the published study indicated that Caribbean residents recognized that increased competition for jobs might initially cause issues, but also viewed it as a catalyst for improved efficiency and higher standards.
Generally speaking, they expressed optimism about the trajectory of free movement and greater economic unity. Consensus remains that with effective regional planning and strategic investment, these issues can be managed, resulting in expanded job opportunities and economic resilience.
According to the CPSO, while the benefits, such as increased economic activity, enhanced competitiveness, and greater opportunities for workers, are substantial, policymakers must also tackle the accompanying social and economic risks.