Barbados, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Belize will allow citizens to live and work across borders without permits starting Wednesday. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said Monday he expects other Caribbean Community nations to join the program that grants access to public schools and basic health services. The Dominican leader called the policy a breakthrough on an issue discussed for decades.
Skerrit said the arrangement helps countries address workforce shortages while expanding opportunities for residents. He dismissed worries about security risks and job competition by pointing to existing safety protocols. The CARICOM Secretariat confirmed the four governments are using treaty provisions that let smaller groups advance regional goals. Officials described the border opening as a major step toward economic and social unity within the Caribbean bloc.
Skerrit said the arrangement helps countries address workforce shortages while expanding opportunities for residents. He dismissed worries about security risks and job competition by pointing to existing safety protocols. The CARICOM Secretariat confirmed the four governments are using treaty provisions that let smaller groups advance regional goals. Officials described the border opening as a major step toward economic and social unity within the Caribbean bloc.
