CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana--The Caribbean Community CARICOM Regional Consultation on a Draft Ocean Policy and Governance Framework opened in Guyana on July 22, with a focus on the ocean’s vital role in tourism, fisheries, transport, renewable energy and the blue economy, according to a press release from the CARICOM Secretariat.
The two-day consultation brought together key regional stakeholders to contribute perspectives on the draft policy that will guide priorities in the sustainable management of marine resources, marine spatial planning and maritime security.
In her address at the Opening, CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett underscored the centrality of the ocean to the region’s identity, economy, culture, history and survival, noting that its maritime space averages a 4:1 ratio compared to land territory.
“For CARICOM, the ocean is not merely a geographical feature, it goes to the essence of our identity, our culture and our survival. It is our historical highway and our connection, our pantry, our playground and our provider. Our oceans supply 50% of the oxygen we breathe and are also a significant carbon sink in [the – Ed.] climate fight. They sustain a rich biodiversity that is intrinsic to our natural heritage.”
Highlighting both the challenges and opportunities, Dr. Barnett said that this “invaluable resource is under unprecedented pressure from sea level rise, ocean acidification and increasingly intense hurricanes,” but still holds “immense promise as a powerful engine” for realising the objectives of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.
She referenced a World Bank estimate valuing CARICOM’s ocean economy at US $407 billion and welcomed the shift toward an expanding blue economy marked by emerging industries such as marine renewable energy, aquaculture and biotechnology, projected to double to a US $13 billion industry, the release states.
In this regard, the secretary general stressed the importance of two foundational pillars: ocean literacy and capacity building. These, she said, are essential for empowering citizens, strengthening scientific research and developing the skilled workforce needed to manage marine resources sustainably.
She also acknowledged the United Kingdom’s support through initiatives like the Commonwealth Blue Charter and the Sustainable Ocean Economies Programme, which have helped CARICOM states advance national blue economy strategies, according to the release.
Guyana’s Ambassador to CARICOM, George Talbot, speaking on behalf of Guyana’s minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said the consultation marks a significant step in the region’s collective effort to develop “a programme for the sustainable, secure and equitable stewardship of the maritime spaces.”
He also emphasised the ocean’s centrality to the region’s identity, economy and climate resilience, and warned of mounting threats such as overfishing, pollution, climate change and maritime crime.
“Maritime security must be a central pillar of our ocean governance agenda,” Ambassador Talbot stated, urging stronger regional coordination, legal frameworks and international cooperation. He also stressed the importance of clearly defined maritime boundaries and the peaceful resolution of disputes under international law.
Drawing from Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, he identified coastal protection, sustainable marine industries, ecosystem conservation and investment in ocean science and technology as key priorities for CARICOM’s ocean governance agenda. Climate-smart governance and equitable participation of youth, women and indigenous communities are also critical, the release states.
Joining the call for action, UK’s High Commissioner to Guyana and Ambassador to CARICOM, Jane Miller said the sustainable development of marine resources is “a matter of the utmost economic necessity for Caribbean nations.”
“The Caribbean Sea is one of the world’s greatest treasures – a source of food, livelihoods, heritage and boundless natural beauty. But for millions across the region, the ocean is far more than scenery – it is life itself, driving tourism, fisheries, transport, renewable energy and so much more,” she stated.
Noting that the UK recognises a healthy, productive ocean as essential not only for economic growth but also for climate resilience, food security and the well-being of future generations, she said the UK is proud to be one of the “foremost supporters” of Caribbean nations in protecting marine ecosystems, strengthening sustainable fisheries and unlocking new opportunities for innovation and investment in the blue economy.
“Together, we can strengthen marine governance, combat marine pollution, expand marine protected areas and mobilise blue finance to drive sustainable growth that benefits all. Let us ensure that the Caribbean Sea remains a source of life, prosperity and inspiration for generations to come,” High Commissioner Miller stated.
Participants in the two-day consultation included representatives from CARICOM Member States, maritime administrations and regional organisations such as the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE), CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security IMPACS, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Caribbean Network Fisher-folk Organisation (CNFO) and the Regional Security System (RSS), the release concludes.
