Security Cooperation

Security was formally added as the fourth pillar of CARICOM in 2007, in response to the growing threats to citizen safety and transnational crime, and following the establishment, by Heads of Government, of a Regional Task Force on Crime and Security in 2001 which was tasked with examining the root causes of crime and recommending approaches to deal with them.
This pillar reflects the Region’s shared commitment to protect its people, borders, and institutions from evolving security threats. Recognising that crime in the Caribbean often transcends national boundaries, Member States collaborate through coordinated policies, joint operations, and harmonised legislation to address issues such as transnational organised crime, drug and arms trafficking, cybercrime, terrorism, and human trafficking.

The Security pillar is guided by the understanding that security is foundational to sustainable development. It promotes capacity-building for law enforcement, border security modernisation, disaster resilience, and judicial cooperation. Regional mechanisms such as the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (CARICOM IMPACS) and the Regional Security System (RSS) operationalise this agenda, supporting Member States with strategic analysis, joint training, and coordinated responses to emerging threats.
Through collective action, CARICOM strengthens regional stability, enhances citizen safety, and reinforces democratic governance, ensuring that security cooperation remains proactive, intelligence-driven, and people-centred.

Key Achievements

• Establishment of IMPACS: Created a permanent institutional framework for regional crime and security coordination, improving intelligence sharing and operational collaboration.
• Advanced Passenger Information & Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) Systems: Implemented across Member States to strengthen border security and monitor cross-border criminal activity.
• Joint Regional Operations: Coordinated efforts to disrupt narcotics trafficking, firearms smuggling, and organised criminal networks across maritime and airspace domains.
• Legislative Harmonisation: Supported model laws and policy frameworks to address terrorism financing, cybercrime, and anti-money laundering compliance.
• Capacity Building & Training: Delivered specialised training for law enforcement, border control, and judicial officers, enhancing regional readiness and professionalism.
• Disaster and Crisis Response Coordination: Strengthened collaboration between security agencies and disaster management bodies to address complex emergencies. This is facilitated in collaboration with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).

Collectively, these achievements demonstrate CARICOM’s commitment to a secure Caribbean environment where development, trade, and social progress can flourish free from the destabilising effects of crime and insecurity.