GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – CARICOM has launched a project aimed at developing a comprehensive labour migration policy for the Caribbean region.
The ‘Free Movement of Persons in the CARICOM Region: Undertaking Labour Market Analysis in the Region’ project is being undertaken in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The CARICOM Secretariat said that the project is designed as part of an ongoing collaboration between ILO and CARICOM to strengthen the free movement of persons in the region and that the study will evaluate the interplay of economic, employment, and migration patterns in the region.
It said that the findings are expected to guide member states “in optimising labour mobility, protecting workers’ rights, and enhancing job creation through innovative economic strategies”.
Director of the CARICOM Single Market (CSM), Leo Preville, said the development of policies to enhance the smooth movement of people is central to the success of the CSME (CARICOM Single Market and Economy), which allows for the free movement of goods, skills, labour and services across the region, and that an evidence-based approach to the development of policy is therefore critical.
“The development of the labour migration policy component of the regional migration policy must be centred on a sound analysis. The study will provide the opportunity for a close and detailed assessment of both the demand and supply sides of labour in the Community as well as provide an understanding of the migration dynamics taking place in the Community.
“This understanding is especially important in the context of the standing decision of the Heads of Government to work towards the free movement of all CARICOM nationals,” he added.
ILO employment and labour market specialist, Abdelmalik Muhummed, said that migration presents challenges and opportunities for long-term socio-economic development in the region.
“The ILO is pleased to partner with CARICOM on this landmark study that will provide critical insights into how migration can enhance workforce dynamics for inclusive sustainable growth that prioritises decent work and social justice in Caribbean member states,” Muhummed added.
The CARICOM Secretariat said the project to be undertaken during the period January to April 2025, will employ a robust methodology, incorporating primary and secondary data collection, stakeholder consultations, and sectoral analysis.
It said key deliverables include an inception report, two draft reports, and a final report, culminating in a validation workshop to ensure alignment with national and regional goals.
”The results are expected to provide a comprehensive understanding of the economic, employment, labour and migration dynamics as much of the region currently faces unprecedentedly low levels of growth and an increase in vulnerabilities.
“The cross-cutting study will further explore the effects of climate change on jobs and labour mobility, consider casual chains, identify opportunities and challenges, and recommend possible strategies for improving productive employment in the CARICOM region,” the Secretariat added.