Stronger Together: Embracing Return Migration and Diaspora Engagement
🌟 Celebrating CARICOM’s Golden Jubilee🌟
Despite the challenges we have faced in regional integration as a Caribbean community, the celebration of the Golden Jubilee brings forth a common theme: we are stronger together. As we confront the multiplicity of challenges such as climate change, disaster management, food security, and crime and violence, it becomes evident that unity is our greatest asset.
One area that demands our close collaboration as a community is the full realization of free movement of labor within CARICOM. While progress has been made, some member states have been hesitant to fully implement provisions related to free movement. Concerns regarding the recognition of qualifications and the rights of migrant workers persist. It is crucial that we address these concerns and work towards a comprehensive framework that facilitates the seamless movement of labor across our region.
Caricom leaders must prioritize efforts to rethink our migration strategies, taking into consideration that brain drain can undermine our endeavors to build human capital, foster innovation, and drive sustainable development. To harness the potential of our youth and stem the tide of brain drain, we need to actively engage and involve our diaspora. After all,
the youth is our present and our future (Prime Minister Skerritt — Dominica).
CARICOM leaders are already advancing the expansion of categories for free movement of skilled nationals, aiming to bolster the growth and expansion of our regional economy while upholding the spirit of our Community. In this pursuit, it is crucial to recognize the value-added potential that can be accrued from Return Migration and Diaspora Engagement.
By creating avenues for return migration and facilitating the transfer of skills, knowledge, and resources, member states can tap into the expertise of our diaspora and mitigate brain drain. CARICOM should actively engage with the diaspora, encouraging their involvement in regional development initiatives. Together, we can leverage the talents and experiences of our diaspora to fuel progress, innovation, and sustainable growth within our community.
As we reflect on 50 years of CARICOM’s journey, let us reaffirm our commitment to unity, collaboration, and shared aspirations. Together, we can overcome challenges, build a prosperous future for our region, and create a vibrant and inclusive Caribbean community.
#CARICOM50 #StrongerTogether #regionalintegration#DiasporaEngagement
