Caribbean nations must unite in their battle against climate change, systemic inequalities, and financial barriers threatening their survival, declared Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.
Reflecting on the biblical principle of being one’s “neighbour’s keeper”, he called for solidarity and action, asserting that the survival of the Caribbean depends on collective effort.
Skerrit made the comments to reporters on Sunday, following a service at the Our Lady of the Universe Roman Catholic Church in Black Rock, St Michael to commemorate Dominica’s 46th Independence anniversary on November 3 and the Dominica Association of Barbados’ 30th anniversary.
Skerrit described climate change as “the defining crisis of the Caribbean’s existence” with catastrophic consequences for the region.
“This isn’t just a policy matter—it’s a lived reality for every citizen in our region,” he said.
He emphasised the need for all sections of Caribbean society—academia, civil society, and religious institutions—to actively engage in the fight.
“This responsibility cannot be left to governments alone. Everyone must be involved,” the Dominican leader said.
Skerrit painted a vivid picture of the destruction caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017: “A week and a half after commissioning $100 million in water system upgrades, Hurricane Maria destroyed everything. These disasters are no longer anomalies—they are our new normal.”
He condemned the inequities of global climate finance and aid systems, citing bureaucratic hurdles and inefficiencies. Skerrit said while they create funds, they make the requirements for accessing them so burdensome, “it feels designed to discourage us”.
He also criticised the international community for prioritising other global issues over the Caribbean’s existential threats.
“When Ukraine needed help, rules were suspended to get them funding immediately. Why can’t they do the same for us when we’re in similar situations?” Skerrit questioned. “Because climate change really is a war that has been unleashed on us.”
Drawing attention to the Bridgetown Initiative, a proposal spearheaded by Barbados to reform global financial systems, Skerrit called it a “lifeline” for vulnerable nations. He urged all stakeholders, including the private sector and global allies, to join the fight.
The Dominica PM lamented the sacrifices Caribbean governments must make to attend international forums to advocate for their needs.
“Money that should be spent on education or healthcare is diverted to buy plane tickets and pay for accommodations just so we can be heard,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Skerrit praised the collaborative spirit within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), highlighting how member nations consistently advocate for one another on the global stage. However, he acknowledged the limitations of their resources.
“We don’t have the financial means to tackle these challenges alone. The levers of power remain in the hands of the G7, and they show little interest in meaningful change,” he lamented.
Skerrit concluded by urging regional media to amplify the Caribbean’s voice globally. “We need to tell our story better, like the BBC or CNN do for their countries. The world must understand our struggles and resilience,” he said. (RG)
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