On March 4, 2026, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Caribbean, in collaboration with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, hosted the tenth episode of its “CONVERSATIONS on Migration in the Caribbean” series. The session, titled “Migration and the Caribbean Workforce: Filling the Gaps,” featured Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques, Dominica’s Ambassador to CARICOM and the OECS, who discussed innovative strategies being implemented in Dominica and the broader CARICOM region to address critical labor shortages. The event underscored the urgent need for coordinated migration policies to leverage labor migration for regional development.
The discussion highlighted the challenges posed by aging populations, declining birth rates, and high levels of outward migration among working-age nationals. These factors are creating significant workforce shortages, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, public services, and construction. Yves Joseph, a Haitian agriculturist who migrated to Dominica 19 years ago, shared his experience of running a successful farm, emphasizing that the primary barrier to expanding his business is the ongoing labor shortage. He stressed the need for more farm workers to increase production.
Ambassador Jean-Jacques pointed out the important role that Haitian migrant workers play in Dominica’s agricultural sector, noting that migration has helped sustain key productive industries. He highlighted Dominica’s formal recruitment programs and regulated permit systems, which attract skilled workers, including those from the diaspora. These programs not only ensure due diligence but also provide technical assistance and labor protections. However, he acknowledged that many migrants use Dominica as a transit point rather than their final destination, complicating efforts to retain skilled workers.
As the representative for labor issues in CARICOM’s quasi-Cabinet, Ambassador Jean-Jacques emphasized the need for structured labor mobility solutions. While there have been investments in training healthcare professionals and other skilled workers, retention remains a significant challenge. Additionally, although regional mobility policies in hospitality and services have made progress, there are still widespread shortages in trades and a decline in local agricultural participation, which are exacerbating workforce gaps.
Moderator Patrice Quesada, IOM’s Caribbean Coordinator, noted the importance of the conversation, particularly in light of the region’s demographic challenges. The need for innovative solutions to attract and retain youth, integrate migrants, and address wage disparities and working conditions was also discussed. CARICOM Youth Ambassador for Jamaica, Odane Brooks, emphasized the crucial role of young people in shaping the future of migration and workforce discussions, highlighting the impact these issues have on youth.
Panelists concluded that enhanced data collection, harmonized policies, and education systems tailored to emerging skills are essential to prepare the Caribbean workforce for future challenges. The central message was clear: safe, orderly, and well-managed migration is a key strategic tool for economic growth, workforce sustainability, and long-term resilience across the region. These conversations contribute to CARICOM’s development of a Regional Migration Policy Framework, with the next installment scheduled for April 29, 2026.
