St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew has been appointed to chair a newly established Caribbean Community (CARICOM) committee that will examine issues affecting Rastafarians across the region.

The appointment was approved by CARICOM Heads of Government during the 42nd Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on May 8 as part of the regional body’s efforts to promote equality, inclusion and social justice.

The committee will be tasked with advancing the recognition, protection and promotion of the rights of Rastafarians throughout the Caribbean. It will include representatives from Barbados, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Speaking on his appointment to the St Kitts and Nevis Information Service, Drew said the committee’s work presents an opportunity for the region to address longstanding concerns facing the Rastafarian community.

“The Caribbean has always been strongest when we stand united in defence of the dignity and rights of every citizen,” he said. “The establishment of this CARICOM Committee represents an important step towards ensuring that Rastafarians are afforded the respect, recognition and equal opportunities they deserve.”

He added that the region must not only acknowledge past injustices but also work together to remove barriers that continue to affect Rastafarians today.

“As Chair of this Committee, I look forward to working with my fellow Member States, the Rastafarian community and all relevant stakeholders to advance meaningful dialogue, informed policy and lasting progress that reflects the values of justice, equality and human dignity upon which our Community is built,” Drew said.

The committee is expected to begin its work in the coming months, consulting with member states, Rastafarian organisations and other stakeholders before making recommendations aimed at tackling discrimination, addressing historical inequities and promoting greater inclusion across the Caribbean.