From OECS Communications 

In a landmark effort to deepen regional integration and empower citizens, Dominica played host to two dynamic sessions on July 30th, spotlighting the transformative potential of free movement and contingent rights within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Economic Union. The day unfolded in two distinct but interconnected conversations - a morning Public Sector Town Hall Meeting, followed by a vibrant Youth Engagement Session, both held at the Public Service Union in Roseau, Dominica.

Under the shared theme of regional unity, mobility, and opportunity, the sessions served as ​ critical platforms for unpacking the OECS Free Movement of Persons Regime, demystifying contingent rights, and engaging with public sector professionals and the youth alike.

A Morning of Dialogue and Policy Direction

​The Public Sector Town Hall brought together senior public sector officials, statutory bodies and civil society agencies for a focused dialogue on the policy landscape underpinning the free movement of persons in the OECS. The Public Sector Town Hall included participation from a wide cross-section of agencies, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of National Security/Immigration, Ministry of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Labour, , Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Development, Customs and Excise Department, and Trade Unions/Labour Organisations. Opening remarks from the Government of Dominica and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) framed the conversation, highlighting ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening regional mobility.

​Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour, Mrs. Gloria Joseph, urged participants to lend their voices to the regional dialogue, stressing the importance of migration governance and free movement in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. According to Ms. Joseph:
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Key presentations from OECS technical experts clarified the practical dimensions of free movement and contingent rights, particularly how these rights impact citizens’ ability to live, work, and access services across OECS Member States. The interactive "Open Mic" segments invited participants to raise questions, voice concerns, and propose policy ideas, making it a participatory forum.

Communications Officer for the IOM, Ms. Maxine Alleyne-Esprit, emphasized the IOM's commitment to the OECS Free Movement Regime. According to Ms. Alleyen-Esprit.

Youth Voice Takes the Stage

In the afternoon, attention shifted to the Youth Engagement Session, where young people from across Dominica gathered to share their hopes, ideas, and personal stories about life in a borderless OECS region. The tone was energetic and inclusive, beginning with an engaging icebreaker and continuing through interactive activities and open mic discussions.

The session explored how free movement intersects with youth opportunity, especially in sectors like education, agriculture and other areas of employment. A special presentation on youth labour migration in agriculture, delivered by representatives from the IOM, sparked deep reflection on how regional mobility can revitalize key industries and create meaningful pathways for young people. Acting Head of the OECS Regional Integration Unit, Dr. Clarence Henry, emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of regional integration, calling for their active engagement and acceptance of OECS free movement of people regime. Dr. Henry noted that

Participants also engaged in a group brainstorming activity, suggesting innovative youth-centered policies and voicing what free movement means in their daily lives. The session concluded with a synthesis of key takeaways on how youth can remain engaged in shaping the OECS integration agenda.

Building a People-Centered OECS

Both sessions underscored a shared commitment across generations and sectors: to build a more connected, resilient, and people-centered OECS. As the day ended, one message rang clear: the future of free movement is not just about policies. It's about people, their stories, and their right to thrive across an integrated OECS.