Ep 1: A brief history of CARICOM and the CSME

Overview of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy

Introduction to the CSME

• Salah Hamilton introduces himself as a specialist in communications at the CSME unit, expressing gratitude for the support from the government of Canada in producing this video.

What is the CARICOM Single Market and Economy?

• The CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) is described as a single economic space that allows movement across 13 CARICOM countries for employment, business establishment, capital, and services.

• The Caribbean Community consists of 15 member states and five associate members. Key member states include Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, among others.

Historical Context

• The history of CARICOM dates back to 1973 with the creation of the Caribbean community and common market; significant integration efforts began in the late '80s.

• In 1989, leaders called for a single market and economy under the Grand Anse Declaration. This led to revisions of the Treaty of Shagaramas in 2001.

Current Developments

• As of now, there are measures in place to implement CSME effectively since 2006. It aims to create a market accessible by approximately 14 million people.

• Various institutions support regional integration including the CARICOM Development Fund and Caribbean Court of Justice.

Importance for Media Workers