The world is at a crossroads, and the voices of small island nations are more crucial than ever. The 17th MEDays Forum, held from November 26th to 29th, 2025, under the patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, brought together global leaders to tackle the theme of “Fractures and Polarization: Reinventing the Global Equation.” A distinguished delegation from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) made a significant impact, highlighting the urgent need for global cooperation.
The OECS delegation included prominent figures like Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of Dominica; The Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda; and The Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada. Their participation was supported by the Embassies of the Eastern Caribbean States in the Kingdom of Morocco, reflecting a growing commitment to strengthening ties with the African continent.
Why is this important? The MEDays Forum is a key platform in Africa, especially as Morocco drives major initiatives like the Atlantic Initiative. The theme of the forum, focusing on fractured multilateralism, rising polarization, and climate impacts, deeply resonated with the Caribbean delegation. Small island developing states are particularly vulnerable to these global disruptions.
Prime Minister Mitchell, speaking at the opening ceremony, emphasized that for small island states, the effects of climate change and global instability are not abstract concepts but realities that constantly hinder development. He advocated for a revitalized multilateral system and proposed reimagining the historic Africa–Atlantic–Caribbean trade route—once marred by the transatlantic slave trade—as a modern pathway for partnership and shared opportunity.
In the closing ceremony, President Burton and Prime Minister Browne shared their perspectives. President Burton, drawing on Dominica’s Kalinago heritage, emphasized the wisdom of indigenous knowledge and the importance of mutual respect in addressing today's challenges. She stressed the need for coordinated action and accessible finance for vulnerable states. Prime Minister Browne addressed the “poly-crisis” affecting small islands, calling for urgent financial reform and the meaningful inclusion of small states in decisions related to climate, trade, technology, and security.
But here's where it gets controversial... The OECS delegation's call for global solidarity, equity, and a more responsive global order is a powerful message. However, achieving these goals requires significant changes in global power dynamics.
His Excellency Ian M. Queeley, Ambassador of the Eastern Caribbean States in Rabat, expressed satisfaction with the OECS's strong presence at MEDays 2025. He noted that the high-level participation demonstrated the region’s recognition of Africa as a strategic partner and provided valuable opportunities for OECS leaders to engage with Moroccan officials. The Embassies are committed to continued collaboration with MEDays organizers.
And this is the part most people miss... The OECS delegation's contributions underscore the critical role small states must play in shaping global transformation. Their presence reaffirmed the Caribbean’s commitment to strengthening Africa–Caribbean cooperation and contributing to a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient global order.
What do you think? Do you believe that small island nations' voices are being heard sufficiently in global discussions? How can the Africa–Caribbean partnership be strengthened to address shared challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments!
