Column: Fahy On CARICOM Membership
[Column written by Michael Fahy]
In last year’s budget debate, the Government made an error by suggesting they would publish a White Paper on CARICOM membership during 2025. After I pointed out that publishing a White Paper was premature since no Green Paper existed, the Government said this was simply a mistake. So what, you ask? Whilst for many the difference between the publication of a Green Paper and then a White Paper, or for that matter no paper at all, may not matter, I believe it matters in a big way.
A White Paper, by definition, reflects settled policy direction informed by consultation. A Green Paper, on the other hand, is meant to begin the conversation, laying out options, implications, and unanswered questions so that the public can respond meaningfully. After publication of a Green Paper and then a White Paper, a referendum should follow. Skipping, or appearing to skip any step, sends the wrong signal. It suggests that conclusions may already be formed before Bermudians have had the opportunity to weigh the facts.
The fact is Bermuda is being asked to consider a decision of major significance. Should we pursue full membership in CARICOM? This is not a minor policy adjustment and should not be looked at simply as a way of becoming closer with the Caribbean due to generational ties. There are many unanswered questions regarding economic alignment, regional obligations, and our long-term national interest, especially given changing views of the Caribbean by the US Government. Precisely because of its importance, how we decide on whether full membership is the way to go is just as important as the decision itself.
This is why the OBA and I have been clear and consistent. Bermuda must follow a proper, transparent, and democratic process beginning with a Green Paper, followed by a White Paper, and ultimately allowing the people to decide through a referendum if full CARICOM membership is in our best interests.
Let me be absolutely clear. The OBA has not taken a position on being for or against CARICOM. Reasonable people can and will disagree on the merits. This is about respecting the intelligence of the Bermudian people and giving them the tools they need to make an informed decision.
A comprehensive Green Paper would set out, in plain language, what full CARICOM membership would mean for Bermuda. It would detail potential economic benefits and risks, immigration and labour implications, treaty obligations, financial contributions, and any impact on our existing international relationships. It would also clearly distinguish between associate participation, cooperation agreements, and full membership, terms that are too often conflated in public discussion.
Only after that information is publicly debated, tested, and refined should a White Paper be produced, reflecting what the Government believes is the best course of action after listening to the people. Only then should a referendum be held, allowing Bermudians to give informed consent or refusal.
This matters because decisions of this magnitude should never be driven by emotion, nostalgia, or political symbolism alone. Our shared Caribbean heritage and regional relationships are important, and they should be acknowledged with respect. But emotional ties cannot be a substitute for rigorous analysis. The question before us is not who we feel connected to, but what is genuinely in the best interest of Bermuda economically, socially, and constitutionally now and for future generations. We owe it to young Bermudians, in particular, not to frame this debate as an emotional litmus test of identity, but as a serious policy choice with real consequences for jobs, opportunity, and economic stability.
Publishing a Green Paper, then a White Paper followed by a referendum is not a threat to leadership, rather it is an expression of confidence in the people. On an issue as profound as CARICOM full membership, anything less would be insufficient. Bermuda has navigated complex global relationships before by being deliberate, thoughtful, and transparent. We should do no less now. Start with a comprehensive Green Paper. Follow with an honest White Paper. Then let the people decide.
That is how democracy is supposed to work.
- Michael Fahy
Thank you for the explanation. I think our lack of knowledge on many things related to the political machine is of real concern… or should be.
The misinformation machine exists in the US, Canada and the UK, but never in Bermuda. We’re too smart for that, we’re nothing like americans at all!
/s
Stay the HE 2 hockey sticks away from CARICOM!!!