The Caribbean has been at the core of the colonialist project, the heart of racial capitalism and the universalization of unecological and violent visions for the people and the planet. For centuries, communities and territories were excluded from the decision-making processes and deprived of their right to self-determination. This has also been the case in the aftermath of independence and the implementation of economic development pathways that have transformed the land and the lived experiences across the region.
A socially and ecologically just future for the region is inevitably dependent on the recognition and guarantee of the right to self-determination and to the implementation of decision making and governance mechanisms that are centered around the needs, rights and visions of the people and the ecological processes. At the same time, the idea and practices of ‘development’ themselves have to be re-calibrated and redefined, moving away from the idea of the region as an economic resource to be appropriated and enclosed to facilitate wealth extraction, and embracing an understanding of territories as complex ecosystems that should provide to everyone, including next generations.
Democratize governance at all levels to ensure inclusive and transparent decision-making processes that respect the carrying capacity of territories and natural resources. This requires ensuring that people have access to the necessary resources to express their voices and make collective decisions about development in their communities, and that the principles of international and regional law (Escazu Agreement) are translated into concrete practices and opportunities. In all cases, people should be able to freely designate their representatives, to whom they transfer decision-making power in their own interests, far from the dictates of large embassies.
Strengthen mechanisms to stop ecological disasters caused by multiple forms of extractivism, promoting socially and environmentally just policies and practices that safeguard and regenerate the environment while contributing to collective social well-being. At least, governments should guarantee meaningful and continuous consultations with communities to ensure that policies and infrastructural plans respect their rights and obtain their consent.
There is no just future without the recognition and enforcement of people’s rights to their territories and to self-determination as the pursuit of their economic, social and cultural development without outside interference. The future of the Caribbean must be built around the achievement of self-determination and economic independence for local communities, empowering them to direct their own future paths. In the case of infrastructures and so-called development plans, the respect for self-determination and human rights becomes key, along with the recognition that true development cannot occur without these fundamental principles.
Showcasing stories of Caribbean organizations at the foreground of the struggle against disaster capitalism in the Caribbean. Our network of participants in the Greater Caribbean region connect, learn, share their hands on responses to the impacts of the twin threats of the climate crisis and disaster capitalism in our region.
Bernard Lodge Farmers Group
WAVE (Progressive Reform Movement)
Tèt Kole
Global Challenges Research Fund
Open Society Foundations
All Rights Reserved – strongercaribbeantogether.org 2022
All Rights Reserved – strongercaribbeantogether.org 2022
In the tumultuous aftermath of disasters, it is easy to feel isolated and alone, but you are not.
We, a network of Caribbean-wide community organizers who stand in solidarity with those affected the twin threats of the climate crises and disaster capitalism, a phenomenon that exacerbates the suffering of vulnerable communities.
We want you to know that your stories matter. We are here to listen, to support, and to amplify your voices.
We believe that together, we can challenge the forces of disaster capitalism and advocate for more sustainable, inclusive and equitable decision-making.
Join us in solidarity. Share your experiences and let’s build strong communities that thrive together.
As the wider world braces for the climate change, Caribbean communities are already struggling with its effects. Small local communities, small scale farmers and coastal communities are disproportionately affected. Political decisions, power dynamics and laws often compound the catastrophes and silence bottom up solutions.
There are ways in which you can help.