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In a compelling call for unity and action, Sir Molwyn Joseph, the Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment of Antigua and Barbuda, emphasized the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) crucial role in addressing the vulnerabilities faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDs).

His remarks were made during the virtual Second Annual Ministerial Post-Conference of the Parties (COP) Debriefing, which took place on January 24, 2024.

As the Chair of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) on Environment and Sustainable Development, Minister Joseph rallied over 100 participants, including 13 Environment Ministers, senior officials, and regional institution representatives, to work in unison as the region approaches a pivotal year on the multilateral stage.

With three significant COPs—the UN Conference on Biodiversity (UNCBD), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)—as well as negotiations on the Plastics Treaty on the agenda, the call for collective action has never been more pertinent.

Minister Joseph underscored the importance of strategic leadership and cohesion within the region, noting that the effectiveness of CARICOM’s voice in negotiations hinges on timely ministerial engagement.

“Political leadership lends weight to the technical groundwork laid by CARICOM negotiators and underscores the urgency of regional priorities,” he stated.

Reflecting on recent global discussions, including Climate COP29 and the biodiversity deliberations in Cali, Joseph highlighted the necessity for coordinated regional efforts to advocate effectively on the international stage.

He stressed that as key meetings approach, the region must be proactive, agile, and responsive, continually assessing progress and adapting strategies to tackle emerging challenges.

Dr. Wendell Samuel, Senior Economic Advisor to the Secretary-General of CARICOM, echoed these sentiments by calling for enhanced coordination at both national and regional levels. He warned that while global focus tends to narrow, CARICOM must look inward and collaborate, as the survival of its member states fundamentally depends on it.

The debriefing serves as a critical reminder of the importance of regional solidarity in navigating the complexities of environmental negotiations and advancing development goals for Small Island Developing States.

As 2024 unfolds, the Caribbean Community is poised to amplify its collective voice in advocating for sustainable solutions that address the unique challenges faced by its members.