WILLEMSTAD – The first day of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Jamaica began with a historic dialogue between the Heads of Government and representatives of the judiciary from member states. It was the first time such an exchange was held at the regional level between these two branches of government. 

The central topic was the rise in serious and transnational crime affecting the CARICOM region. This includes illegal arms trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercrime. These threats undermine citizen safety, economic growth, and investor confidence. One of the most alarming indicators is the high homicide rate in the region. 

Participants shared their perspectives with the aim of finding structural solutions and reaching concrete proposals through continued collaboration between executive and judicial branches. 

Curaçao’s Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas shared the country’s comprehensive strategy to combat crime, highlighting efforts such as: 

The use of the advanced Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS); 

Strengthening of the Coast Guard with more personnel, radar, vessels, and intelligence capacity; 

Investments in police training and strategic camera deployment; 

Awareness campaigns like “Arma ta karma” aimed at youth; 

The social reintegration program “Un Komienso Nobo,” giving young people a second chance. 

Pisas emphasized that crime knows no borders. “We must stand united and act decisively. Curaçao calls on all CARICOM members to strengthen alliances and take immediate action in the fight against crime,” the Prime Minister said. 

He closed with a strong message: 
“Together, we can build a safer and more resilient Caribbean—where justice prevails, communities are protected, and future generations can thrive in peace and security.”