CARICOM

The flag of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is a symbol of regional solidarity, shared identity and cooperation among Caribbean countries. Its design features a blue field in two shades, a golden-yellow sun and the CARICOM emblem formed by two interlocking C-shaped elements. The blue tones evoke the Caribbean Sea and the wider sky, while the rising sun represents hope and the region’s aspirations for a brighter future. The linked emblem expresses the idea of Caribbean states working together toward common goals. As a regional symbol, the flag reflects a commitment to cooperation despite the different histories, languages, economies and cultures of CARICOM members. It is displayed in connection with CARICOM institutions, meetings and initiatives, representing the community rather than any single country.

CARICOM was established through the Treaty of Chaguaramas, signed on 4 July 1973 by Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. The treaty entered into force on 1 August 1973, building on earlier efforts to strengthen Caribbean economic and political cooperation, including the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA). Membership expanded as other Caribbean countries joined. In 1989, CARICOM leaders agreed to pursue a Single Market and Economy to deepen regional integration. The Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, signed in 2001, provided the legal framework for the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Over time, the community has developed cooperation in trade, education, public health, disaster response, diplomacy and sustainable development. CARICOM continues to help its members address shared challenges, particularly those faced by small island and coastal economies.

• CARICOM was founded in 1973 by four original signatories: Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
• The community grew out of earlier Caribbean integration efforts, including CARIFTA.
• The CARICOM Secretariat is based in Georgetown, Guyana.
• The community includes both island states and mainland countries in the Caribbean region.
• The CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) seeks to make regional economic activity easier.
• Member governments cooperate on issues including public health, climate resilience, education and foreign policy.
• The Conference of Heads of Government is a principal political decision-making body.
• The region’s exposure to hurricanes and other natural hazards makes disaster preparedness an important area of cooperation.

Key Facts
• Full name: Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
• Established: 4 July 1973 (treaty signed); 1 August 1973 (entered into force)
• Founding signatories: Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago
• Secretariat: Georgetown, Guyana
• Full members: 15
• Main aims: Regional integration, economic development and coordinated cooperation

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is a regional grouping that brings Caribbean countries together to pursue common economic, social and diplomatic objectives. Its work rests on four broad areas: economic integration; coordination of foreign policy; human and social development; and security cooperation. Through its institutions and member governments, CARICOM promotes regional trade, supports the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), and encourages cooperation in fields such as health, education, agriculture, transport and disaster preparedness. It also provides a collective platform for addressing international issues that affect the Caribbean, including climate change, food security and sustainable development. The Conference of Heads of Government provides political direction, while the CARICOM Secretariat supports coordination and implementation. Although its members differ in size and resources, the community gives them a forum to develop shared priorities and practical regional solutions.