Where Is The Caribbean Secretariat Located?
Quick Fact: The CARICOM Secretariat calls Georgetown, Guyana home (6.80°N, 58.15°W), with extra offices in Bridgetown, Barbados, and a small satellite unit in Kingston, Jamaica.
As of 2026:
• Main address: 77 High Street, Georgetown, Guyana
• Secretary-General: Dr. Carla Barnett (in office since August 2021, five-year term)
• Total member states: 15 full members, 5 associate members
• Key initiative: CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME)
What exactly does the CARICOM Secretariat do?
The CARICOM Secretariat acts as CARICOM’s main administrative arm, offering technical support to member states, putting community decisions into action, and suggesting new initiatives for CARICOM bodies to consider.
It handles regional policy coordination, runs daily operations, and pushes forward integration projects like the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The Secretariat also acts as a bridge between member states and countries outside the region. Honestly, this is the best way to understand CARICOM’s day-to-day work.
Geographic Context
Georgetown, Guyana, isn’t just a random spot for CARICOM’s HQ—it’s the operational heart of a 15-member regional bloc that unites Anglophone and Dutch-speaking Caribbean nations. Sure, Guyana sits on South America’s mainland, but its cultural and political roots run deep in the Caribbean archipelago. The Secretariat’s presence here makes perfect sense when you consider Guyana’s founding role in CARICOM (1973) and its unique position bridging mainland and island states.
Georgetown itself? A historic port city on the Atlantic coast, famous for its Dutch colonial architecture, mangrove-lined canals, and a population pushing 200,000. Its spot at the mouth of the Demerara River makes it both a cultural crossroads and a strategic administrative center for CARICOM’s policy coordination, trade facilitation, and regional diplomacy.
Who’s actually running the CARICOM Secretariat right now?
The CARICOM Secretariat is led by the Secretary-General, who doubles as the community’s top executive.
As of 2026, Dr. Carla Barnett holds the role—she started in August 2021 for a five-year term. Her job? Turning the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference’s decisions into reality. The Secretary-General’s position isn’t just ceremonial—it’s where the rubber meets the road for CARICOM’s operations.
What’s inside the CARICOM Secretariat?
The CARICOM Secretariat is split into departments and units covering trade, finance, foreign affairs, education, and administration.
You’ll find key teams like the Office of the Secretary-General, the Directorate of Human and Social Development, and the Trade and Economic Integration Directorate. Each department works toward CARICOM’s policy goals and regional teamwork. Think of it as the engine room of Caribbean integration.
Key Details
| Office | Location | Coordinates | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| CARICOM Secretariat | Georgetown, Guyana | 6.80°N, 58.15°W | Main administrative body of CARICOM; implements policies, coordinates regional integration, and manages daily operations |
| CARICOM Office | Bridgetown, Barbados | 13.11°N, 59.61°W | Supports regional coordination, particularly in tourism, health, and education initiatives |
| Satellite Unit | Kingston, Jamaica | 17.99°N, 76.81°W | Focuses on operational support, diaspora engagement, and trade facilitation |
Core Functions of the Secretariat (as of 2026)
- Policy Implementation: Converts decisions from the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference into actionable programs
- Economic Integration: Leads the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), which allows for free movement of goods, skills, and capital across member states
- Technical Support: Provides expertise in health (e.g., pandemic response), education (e.g., regional standards), and agriculture
- External Relations: Acts as the diplomatic interface between CARICOM and global partners like the United Nations, African Union, and European Union
- Monitoring & Evaluation: Tracks progress on regional goals such as climate resilience, digital transformation, and gender equality
Is CARICOM still a thing?
Absolutely—CARICOM is still very much alive and kicking as a regional organization.
By 2026, it’s got 15 member states and 5 associate members, with Guyana as one of its four founding members since 1973. The group stays busy with trade, security, and economic integration. CARICOM isn’t just surviving—it’s actively shaping the Caribbean’s future.
Where exactly is the CARICOM Secretariat located?
The CARICOM Secretariat sits in Georgetown, Guyana, with extra offices in Barbados and a small satellite unit in Jamaica.
Its main address is 77 High Street, Georgetown, Guyana. The Barbados office helps with regional coordination, while the Jamaica unit tackles specific operational work. This setup gives CARICOM geographic reach across the Caribbean.
Which CARICOM country has the biggest population?
Haiti takes the crown as CARICOM’s most populous country, with around 11.5 million people (based on 2021 estimates).
| Rank | Country | 2021 Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Haiti | 11,541,685 |
| 2 | Jamaica | 2,973,463 |
| 3 | Trinidad and Tobago | 1,403,375 |
| 4 | Guyana | 790,326 |
These numbers come from 2021 estimates—recent figures might differ. For the latest stats, swing by the Caribbean National Trust.
Does Guyana count as a Caribbean country?
Yes, Guyana is widely considered part of the Caribbean by geographers and regional groups.
Even though it’s on South America’s mainland, Guyana’s cultural, historical, and political ties with CARICOM put it squarely in the Caribbean camp. Its capital, Georgetown, even serves as a major CARICOM administrative hub. Geography alone doesn’t define Caribbean identity—culture and politics do too.
Interesting Background
The idea for a Caribbean regional secretariat came about in the 1960s during post-colonial nation-building. Guyana, under Prime Minister Forbes Burnham, pushed hard for a unified administrative structure to reduce dependence on external powers. The Secretariat officially launched in 1973 with the Treaty of Chaguaramas, which also created CARICOM itself.
Dr. Carla Barnett, the current Secretary-General, is only the second woman to lead CARICOM and the first from Belize. Her 2021–2026 term focuses on pandemic recovery, digital governance, and climate adaptation—critical priorities for a region vulnerable to hurricanes and rising sea levels. The Secretariat’s building on High Street? A coral-stone structure that reflects Guyana’s dual heritage: British colonial ties and Caribbean solidarity.
Culturally, the Secretariat mirrors CARICOM’s diversity. Staff come from Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados, Belize, and beyond, working in English, Spanish, and French depending on the project. Annual meetings rotate among member capitals, but Georgetown’s central location and strong infrastructure keep it as the permanent administrative hub.
Who was CARICOM’s chairman in 2020?
Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, held the CARICOM Chairman role in 2020.
Rowley guided the community through a year focused on pandemic response and economic recovery. The chairmanship rotates yearly among CARICOM heads of government—it’s not just an honor, it’s an active leadership role.
Where exactly is the secretariat situated?
The CARICOM Secretariat is based in Georgetown, Guyana.
Its physical address is 77 High Street, Georgetown, Guyana. This office serves as the nerve center for CARICOM’s operations and regional integration work. Need to get in touch? The contact form on CARICOM’s website is your best bet.
What authority does the secretariat really have?
The CARICOM Secretariat carries out policies, runs programs, and coordinates regional efforts on behalf of member states.
Its authority covers putting CARICOM Heads of Government Conference decisions into practice, managing trade deals, and fostering cooperation in areas like health and education. The Secretariat doesn’t make laws—it helps members implement them. Think of it as the region’s operational backbone.
Who’s the top boss at the secretariat?
The Secretary-General is the CARICOM Secretariat’s top leader.
This person runs the Secretariat’s daily work and answers to the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference. Don’t confuse this with national “Chief Secretaries”—those are completely different roles in some governments. The Secretary-General is CARICOM’s CEO in all but name.
Practical Information
Travel and Access (as of 2026)
Getting to the CARICOM Secretariat in Georgetown is straightforward. Just fly into Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO), 41 km (25 miles) south of the city. As of 2026, GEO offers direct flights from Miami, New York, Panama City, and Paramaribo, with connections via Port of Spain or Santo Domingo.
- Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM (GMT-4)
- Contact: +592 222 0001 | caricom@caricom.org
- Website: https://caricom.org (includes a public contact form and organizational directory)
- Tourism Note: Georgetown’s Stabroek Market, built in 1842, and the nearby Guyana National Museum offer rich historical context. Visitors can also explore the Kaieteur Falls via a 45-minute flight from GEO.
For those attending CARICOM summits, advance registration is required and typically opens six weeks prior through national ministries of foreign affairs. As of 2026, all official events are hybrid, allowing virtual participation for journalists and stakeholders.
How can someone be a rockstar secretariat team member?
A top-notch secretariat member stays organized, detail-focused, and takes initiative when managing meetings and paperwork.
- Keep records and documents meticulous and error-free.
- Tackle admin tasks efficiently and follow up like a pro.
- Make sure communication between members and stakeholders stays crystal clear.
- Never guess—double-check facts and confirm when materials are received.
These traits help any organization make smarter decisions. Want to sharpen your skills? Business admin or office management certifications are a great start.
Is Aruba part of CARICOM?
Aruba isn’t a CARICOM member but holds observer status.
Since the Netherlands Antilles dissolved in 2010, Aruba has participated in CARICOM meetings as an observer. This status gives Aruba a seat at the table without full membership obligations. It’s a smart way for non-members to stay engaged.
Is The Bahamas a CARICOM member?
Yes, The Bahamas is a full CARICOM member.
It joined in 1983 and actively participates in the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). The Bahamas benefits from regional trade deals and collaborations in tourism and security. Full membership means full participation in CARICOM’s decision-making.
Who was CARICOM’s Secretary-General in 2021?
Dr. Carla Barnett served as CARICOM’s Secretary-General in 2021, taking office on August 16 of that year.
She took over from Ambassador Irwin LaRocque and acts as the community’s chief executive. Her first year focused on economic resilience, climate action, and regional unity. For updates on her work, follow CARICOM’s official updates.
Core Functions of the Secretariat (as of 2026)
- Policy Implementation: Converts decisions from the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference into actionable programs
- Economic Integration: Leads the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), which allows for free movement of goods, skills, and capital across member states
- Technical Support: Provides expertise in health (e.g., pandemic response), education (e.g., regional standards), and agriculture
- External Relations: Acts as the diplomatic interface between CARICOM and global partners like the United Nations, African Union, and European Union
- Monitoring & Evaluation: Tracks progress on regional goals such as climate resilience, digital transformation, and gender equality
