Caribbean leadership must prioritize collective capacity over size

A new vision for Caribbean leadership emphasizes increasing the region's collective capacity rather than its physical size. To overcome the legacies of colonial rule and the constraints of small island states—such as limited markets, scarce capital, and high import costs—leaders are urged to prioritize strategic foresight and regional cooperation.

Addressing modern global challenges is central to this approach. Key areas of focus include managing the impact of artificial intelligence on employment, navigating geopolitical competition, and mitigating the economic risks posed by climate change. The strategy calls for economic diversification beyond tourism into sectors such as the blue economy, digital services, competitive agriculture, and specialized manufacturing.

Furthermore, the vision highlights the need for educational reform to prepare innovators for emerging industries and the use of smart diplomacy to secure market access and technology partnerships.