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Category: Project

Description: The purpose of this paper is to highlight the relevance of Caribbean integration efforts in a world of increased Globalization. Globalization can be defined as the opening of international borders and the reforming of policies to facilitate the unrestricted and fast movement of goods and services. This increased interconnectedness directly correlates to economic development and economic growth for participating ‘developed’ and ‘developing’ countries. In attempts to achieve the economic growth, monetary harmony, political unity and stability within the Caribbean Region, historical efforts by Caribbean territories have been demonstrated through the establishment of the West Indies Federation in 1958, the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) in 1965, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in 1973 and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) in 1989. Although attempts for a single market economy revealed many challenges, Caribbean integration is not only imperative to achieve higher economies of scale within the global landscape but its significance resonates deeper to fulfil the long-awaited vision of Pan-Caribbeanism and a dominant group identity anticipated by leaders such as Marcus Garvey and George Padmore. Bearing a history of colonial oppression and imposed imperialist perspectives, the success of Caribbean Integration efforts epitomizes the dream of ‘One’ people.