The CARICOM Regional Office of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) proudly marks the close of 2024, a year that saw the establishment of its office in October and the beginning of a new chapter in promoting human rights across the Caribbean Community.
Since its opening, the Office has been dedicated to strengthening partnerships, expanding outreach, and addressing the unique human rights challenges of the region. Within its first months of operation, the Regional Office has achieved significant milestones, including a series of strategic visits by Ms. Michelle Brathwaite, Regional Representative, to Guyana, Barbados, and Jamaica.
During these visits, Ms. Brathwaite formally introduced the newly established Regional Office to government officials, regional institutions, and civil society leaders. Discussions highlighted opportunities for collaboration on human rights priorities, and laid the foundation for partnerships that will integrate human rights into broader sustainable development efforts. In addition, while in Guyana, Ms. Brathwaite met with the CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett to discuss the office and areas of partnership for human rights work in the region.
“Our opening in October 2024 represents a significant step forward in advancing human rights across CARICOM,” said Ms. Brathwaite. “These initial months have been an opportunity to build relationships, listen to the priorities of key stakeholders including government, civil society, academia and other actors, and begin to collaboratively chart a path toward meaningful, rights-based progress.”
As the Regional Office looks ahead to 2025, the focus will be on consolidating these early partnerships and advancing initiatives that promote equality, climate resilience, and democratic governance. The Office is committed to ensuring that human rights remain at the core of sustainable development across the region.
The OHCHR CARICOM Regional Office extends its heartfelt gratitude to its partners, stakeholders, and communities for their support during this foundational period. Together, we will continue to uphold the dignity, equality, and justice that define the Caribbean’s shared vision for the future.
