The Regional Security System (RSS) is working to ensure that the maritime space within its Member States is secure.
In October 2019, the RSS, in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Organization of American States (OAS), embarked on a mission to create strategies that, once implemented, would safeguard the borders and seaports within the region.
This initiative will come to completion in October this year, when the RSS will hand over the draft National and Regional Maritime Security Strategies, which will provide the foundation for strengthening the security of the maritime commons among Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Christopher and Nevis and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
While the Strategy will aid in tackling transnational organised crime within the sub-regional bloc, it will also support the development of the Blue Economy with the aim to boost economic growth and employment through industries such as shipping, fisheries, renewable energies, maritime transportation, tourism and maritime biotechnology.
Member States will also have a better awareness of the activities which are occurring within their waters, in an effort to efficiently mobilise and deploy resources to adequately respond to any hazards or illicit events.
The results of the USD 466,347 initiative will be released on October 25, 2021, in a hybrid event where the RSS will be presented with draft National and Regional Maritime Security Strategies.