The CARICOM Secretariat, in collaboration with the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corps, has invited young people across the Community to make their voices heard on the future of youth development in the Region.
Through a recently launched survey, youth are being asked to share their perspectives on policies, priority issues, and proposed regional mechanisms. The findings will directly inform the Meeting of Senior Officials and the Regional Youth Dialogue on Youth Development, scheduled for 4 November 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda.
At that gathering, leaders will consider the proposed Regional Youth Development Governance Structure and the CARICOM Youth Development Index, and proposals to improve how youth development is coordinated, monitored and delivered across the Community, including how young people participate in and influence regional decision-making.
Programme Manager for Youth Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, Michele Small‑Bartley, underscored the importance of participation in the survey: “This survey is a direct opportunity for young people to influence the policies, programmes and regional systems that will shape their future. When young people speak, CARICOM listens, and our responsibility is to turn their input into inclusive, responsive and accountable structures that deliver meaningful results for youth across the Community.”
The Secretariat emphasises that every response is imperative to building the Region. Youth engagement will strengthen regional decision‑making and help to ensure that the proposed Youth Development Governance Structure and Index reflect the realities and aspirations of CARICOM youth.
The survey closes on 12 October 2026 and is available via the CARICOM website and official social media platforms.
