On June 15, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) alongside the International Organization for Migration (IOM) organized a vibrant Fun Walk event. An IOM news release shared that it drew 215 participants to mark the rights of OECS citizens to move freely across the seven Protocol States.
The event was a spirited 5.4 km walk, was held in Arnos Vale, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and formed part of a series of activities celebrating the 44th anniversary of the Eastern Caribbean Union.
Throughout the walk, attendees gained valuable insights into their rights under the OECS free movement framework. These rights include traveling with a national ID, residing and working in another OECS member country without the need for a work permit, and accessing essential public services such as healthcare, education, and social assistance. Participants also learned that family members relocating within the region are entitled to many of the same rights and benefits.
Camille Crichton, who manages a professional secretarial and consultancy firm in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, shared her perspective on the challenges faced in regional employment. She expressed her surprise at the ease of mobility within the OECS, stating: “I did not know you did not need a Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME)
certificate to work and travel within the OECS. And I believe a lot of people also do not. So maybe it’s a start promoting the information that you shared today.”
Her statement highlights the importance of spreading awareness about regional mobility policies.
The OECS continues to champion regional integration, emphasizing resilience and unity among its member states, said the IOM. The Fun Walk reportedly served as a celebration of the union’s dedication to principles of dignity, opportunity, and inclusion—values embodied by the OECS Free Movement Regime. By promoting accessible pathways within the region, these efforts also aim to mitigate the risks associated with irregular migration beyond the Caribbean.
The International Organization for Migration stated that its support for the event underscores its commitment to safeguarding migrant rights and responsibilities, ensuring that mobility fosters the growth and well-being of communities.
Maxine Alleyne-Esprit, IOM Caribbean’s Communications Officer, remarked: “We look forward to continuing promoting regular pathways for migration within the OECS countries. Migration has the potential to benefit both migrants and the societies that receive them and the OECS is a great example of managing migration for the benefit of the citizens of the OECS and also for strengthening the social and economic fabric of the countries that are part of the Union.”
Following the success in Saint Vincent, plans are underway to sustain these efforts, with more public awareness initiatives expected, including a town hall meeting scheduled in Dominica in July.
Camille Crichton – Fun walk participant – learned during the walk that in the OECS, citizens do not need a work permit to work:
