Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the challenge of crime and security is “one of the most significant existential threats facing the region.”
He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach among Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries, noting that criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

“When you consider transnational criminal activities, it is crucial for us to unite our efforts,” he stated.

Echoing Browne’s sentiments, Terrance Drew, the prime minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, welcomed a regional strategy to address security issues, particularly highlighting Haiti as the area most severely affected.

“The region is tackling security at multiple levels, and it will require coordination among all Caricom member states,” he remarked, appreciating the commitment to work together.

As the Caricom leaders’ summit opened in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the urgency of the situation was underscored by the burning down of Haiti’s iconic Hotel Oloffson, a structure that had once drawn visitors and was emblematic of Haitian culture.

According to the UN, Haiti has seen over 4,000 deaths since January, marking a 24% increase from the previous year.

During a press conference at the summit, Laurent Saint-Cyr, a member of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, joined the call for enhanced regional support to combat the illicit arms trade and drug trafficking that exacerbate Haiti’s unrest.

“Haiti needs the region to speak with one voice for security, peace, and sustainable development,” he urged, seeking more rigorous cooperation and advocacy from regional and global partners.

Andrew Holness, Jamaica’s Prime Minister and the newly appointed Chair of Caricom, stressed the importance of a unified and robust response to the rising violence in the region.

He proposed a regional justice and security framework, indicating that the evolving nature of crime poses a significant threat.