(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reiterated its commitment to promoting social cohesion, inclusive governance, and sustainable peace.
During a Ministerial-Level Meeting organised by the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations, Ms. Elizabeth Solomon, underscored the Region’s longstanding dedication to peace and security, anchored by its 2014 declaration as a Zone of Peace.
The Meeting on 25 September, was held under the theme, Promoting Social Cohesion and Inclusive Governance to Foster Community Resilience and Sustainable Peace.
“This framework is not a mere aspiration,” Ms. Solomon stated, “but a commitment to the international rule of law that has successfully sustained our Region for decades.”
Citing recent UNDP data, she highlighted the growing erosion of trust in democratic institutions, particularly among Caribbean youth aged 16–25. She also warned that this vulnerability exposes communities to corrosive influences such as gang culture, which undermines the very foundations of peace and governance.
Ms. Solomon called for deeper analysis and collaborative strategies to reinforce democratic institutions and empower communities.
“CARICOM’s priorities align directly with those of the PBC,” she noted, “We are focused on building Community resilience and strengthening the national institutions essential for sustainable peace.”
The Assistant Secretary-General also drew attention to the escalating crisis in Haiti, describing it as the Region’s most urgent peacebuilding challenge. She highlighted the collapse of governance and social cohesion, the rise of armed gangs controlling 90% of the capital, and the humanitarian toll, including the displacement of 1.3 million people and acute food insecurity affecting nearly half the population.
She said that despite limited resources, CARICOM has played a pivotal role in facilitating dialogue and advocating for international support. Ms. Solomon commended the efforts of the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group and welcomed initiatives such as the recently approved Gang Suppression Force as well as the OAS-led Haiti Roadmap for Stability and Peace.
“Peacebuilding requires more than just security. It means addressing the root causes of violence, strengthening the rule of law, and rooting out corrupt practices. Successful initiatives, such as voluntary disarmament programmes and social development projects, can help rebuild the social fabric,” the Assistant Secretary-General stated.
