Cultural performances, digital displays, 5km and 10km road races, and a youth entrepreneurship competition are just some of the activities planned across the region to celebrate CARICOM’s 50th anniversary.

The theme for the year of celebration is ‘50 Years Strong: A Solid Foundation to Build on’. 

CARICOM was established on 4 July 1973 with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas by leaders from Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago. Errol Barrow, Forbes Burnham, Michael Manley, and Dr Eric Williams made history when they formed the 15-member regional bloc which is now the oldest surviving integration movement in the developing world.

Some member states have already announced 4 July 2023 will be a public holiday to encourage their citizens to reflect on the legacy of CARICOM. 

Below are some of the other planned 50th anniversary activities:

July 2023

45th meeting of Heads of Government of CARICOM

50th anniversary commemorative activities including road races in Trinidad

August 2023

Recognising Caribbean media with the Caribbean Broadcasting Union

September 2023

Health and wellness week of activities including a fun day

Launch of regional arts competition for primary and secondary schools in member states

Launch of debating competition for higher education institutions

January 2024

Release of 50th anniversary commemorative stamps

January-June 2024

Entrepreneurship competition for innovative ideas from the community’s youth

March-July 2024

Lectures in the diaspora

May 2024

Release of CARICOM limited edition pictoral magazine

Source: CARICOM.org.