Describe the evolution of integration movement in the Caribbean

The Caribbean has many different countries and cultures, and I'm sure many different integration movements.

What does your book say?

The integration movement in the Caribbean has a rich and complex history, shaped by various factors including colonialism, regional challenges, and shared aspirations for unity and development. Understanding the evolution of this movement requires analyzing key milestones and events that have taken place over the years.

1. Formation of the West Indies Federation (1958): In the late 1950s, several British colonies in the Caribbean region, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados, came together to form the West Indies Federation. Its aim was to establish a unified political entity that would promote economic development and provide a stronger voice for the region on the international stage. However, the federation collapsed in 1962 due to internal disagreements and the withdrawal of Jamaica.

2. Establishment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) (1973): Following the dissolution of the West Indies Federation, CARICOM was established in 1973 as an organization comprising fifteen Caribbean countries, with the objective of promoting economic integration and cooperation. CARICOM focuses on a wide range of areas including trade, agriculture, health, and education.

3. Signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas (1973): The Treaty of Chaguaramas created the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) and established the framework for the regional integration process. It highlighted the principles of collective decision-making, the free movement of goods, services, and capital, and the coordination of foreign policy among member states.

4. Creation of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) (2006): Building upon the foundations laid by CARICOM, the CSME is an advanced stage of integration that aims to create a single economic space within the Caribbean region. It allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and skilled labor, and seeks to enhance economic competitiveness and sustainable development across the region.

5. Challenges and progress: Over the years, the integration movement in the Caribbean has encountered various challenges, including disparities in economic development among member states, trade imbalances, and the impact of global economic shifts. However, significant progress has been made in areas such as regional security cooperation, harmonization of policies, and joint approaches to addressing climate change and natural disasters.

To delve deeper into the evolution of the integration movement in the Caribbean, one can refer to historical records, academic studies, regional agreements and treaties, as well as official publications and statements issued by CARICOM and its member states. These sources provide valuable insights into the motivations, achievements, and challenges faced by the Caribbean countries as they strive for greater regional integration.