THE International Organization for Migration (IOM) Coordination Office for the Caribbean successfully conducted its second episode of “Conversations on Migration in the Caribbean” on Wednesday.

The virtual panel discussion was held under the theme, “Freedom of Movement: Engaging the Private Sector,” provided a platform for private sector representatives to engage in a public dialogue with the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) Unit.

The discussion, moderated by Stephanie Dei, IOM’s Head of Private Sector Partnerships, emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in shaping migration policies that benefit the Region. The Director of the CSME, Leo Titus Preville, stressed the need for consultations at the local level to guide the development of purposeful migration policy in CARICOM member states.

Preville highlighted the significance of having well-thought-out national migration policies and strategies, as they are essential for addressing elements such as data, skills training, and skill gaps. He emphasized that without understanding their skills gap, countries are at a disadvantage when it comes to planning for migration.
The panel discussion revolved around critical themes, including Labour and Skills to Support Development, Population Trends, Integration, and Evidence-Based Data. It underscored the importance of inclusive discussions to shape migration policies that support sustainability and equity in the Region.

Olive Strachan, Founder of Olive Strachan Consultancy, shared her perspective as a business owner who migrated from the Caribbean as a young child and returned as an adult to invest in expanding her UK-based business back home. Strachan discussed the challenges she faced, highlighting the importance of connection and inclusion for returning nationals.
Kim Aikman, Vice Chair of the Caribbean Chambers of Commerce (CARICHAM), emphasized the role of the private sector in providing data for decision-making. Aikman stated that the private sector can contribute by identifying skills gaps and forecasting future labour shortages. She mentioned Belize’s experience in this regard, where private sector involvement has enabled the country to benefit from skilled labour from other member states.

IOM Caribbean’s Coordinator, Patrice Quesada, noted that CARICOM has launched an initiative for a regional approach to migration policy, supported by the UN Network on Migration.
In his closing remarks, Quesada expressed IOM Caribbean’s commitment to continuing these crucial conversations and invited all stakeholders to participate in future dialogues. The “Conversations” series, initiated in July, aims to advance discussions on how migration can be used as a development tool in the Caribbean and accelerate achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Coordination Office for the Caribbean is a regional office dedicated to promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration in the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean.

IOM works closely with governments, civil society, and international partners to address the complex challenges and opportunities presented by migration in the Region. Through research, capacity building, and collaborative initiatives, IOM Caribbean strives to support inclusive and sustainable development while safeguarding the rights and well-being of migrants.