OIM Latinoamérica y el Caribe 91d ago

“CONVERSATIONS on Migration in the Caribbean” Episode 10 focused on labour migration in the Caribbean, with Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques, Dominica's Ambassador to CARICOM and OECS, sharing insights on the island's approach to managing labour shortages. He discussed challenges of outward migration, gaps in local labour supply, and efforts to attract skilled workers through visa exemptions and diaspora engagement programs. The conversation explored strategies for addressing wage gaps, improving work conditions, and fostering innovation to make the Caribbean region more attractive for talent, particularly youth and the diaspora. Participants discussed the importance of youth participation in migration policies and the need for better integration of migrants. The discussion highlighted the complexity of labour migration in the Caribbean, the ambition for shared skills, shared resources, and attracting regional skills to remain, and the need for coordinated policies to leverage migration for development. Chapters 00:00:00 – Introduction & Welcome Opening remarks and welcome to the 10th Conversations on Migration in the Caribbean. 00:04:18 – Setting the Context: Migration in the Caribbean Overview of the discussion theme and partnership with CARICOM and the International Labour Organization. 00:06:09 – Climate Change, Demographics & Labour Needs How climate change and demographic decline are shaping migration and labour needs in the Caribbean. 00:09:10 – Video Case Study: Migrant Farmer in Dominica Short story highlighting a Haitian migrant farmer contributing to agriculture and food production. 00:11:10 – Caribbean Vulnerability & Skills Gaps Discussion of natural disasters, labour shortages, and the need for safer migration pathways. 00:13:15 – Labour Market Realities | Dominica Dr. Jean-Jacques reacts to the video and explains labour challenges in agriculture and other sectors. 00:19:57 – Labour Shortages – Healthcare, construction, agriculture, and skilled trades Shortages in healthcare, construction, agriculture, and skilled trades. 00:23:14 – Regional Labour Mobility & OECS Free Movement How regional mobility helps address labour shortages after disasters like Hurricane Maria. 00:26:48 – Brain Drain & Skilled Migration The challenge of training professionals who later migrate to the US, UK, or Canada. 00:27:49 – Policies for Managed Migration Dominica’s programs to recruit migrant workers and manage labour mobility. 00:31:50 – International Labour Partnerships Role of programs like the Cuban medical brigade and seasonal farm worker schemes. 00:35:55 – Youth Migration & Employment Opportunities Exploring why young people migrate and the economic factors shaping their decisions. 00:37:22 – Government Programmes Supporting Youth Housing initiatives, scholarships, and training opportunities aimed at strengthening youth participation in the workforce. 00:42:06 – Awareness Gaps in Youth Opportunities Why many young people remain unaware of available government support and employment programs. 00:43:48 – Q&A with Audience Participants raise questions on migration policy, labour mobility, and regional development. 00:45:12 – Data & Evidence about the Wage Gap 00:47:12 – Diaspora Engagement & Return Migration The role Caribbean diaspora communities can play in supporting development back home. 00:51:38 – Migration Policies & Regional Development How migration governance and regional cooperation can strengthen economic resilience. 00:53:07 – Innovation & the Future of Migration Exploring innovation, entrepreneurship, and new opportunities for regional growth. 00:56:33 – Migrant Worker Integration Challenges Discussion on workplace integration, productivity, and support systems for migrant workers. 00:58:46 – Developing a Productive Work Ethic 01:01:03 – Harnessing the Power of the Diaspora How diaspora networks can contribute skills, investment, and knowledge to Caribbean development. 01:02:32 – Youth Perspectives on Migration & Innovation Young leaders reflect on the future of migration and opportunities for youth engagement. 01:05:05 – Final Reflections from the Speakers Key takeaways on labour mobility, migration governance, and regional cooperation. 01:08 – Closing Remarks Wrap-up of the conversation and final thoughts on migration, youth engagement, and regional integration.