The geographic proximity of the Caribbean to the United States underscores its significance as a vital hub for national interests. However, the relationship between the US and Caribbean nations has been hampered by inconsistent and sporadic assistance, stemming from shifts in US policy priorities.
Such fluctuations result in the Caribbean region lacking the time and consistency needed to fully benefit from US policy actions.
Policy continuity is essential for Caribbean nations to implement strategies effectively and achieve tangible development outcomes.
The limited populations, vulnerability to natural disasters, fluctuating global commodity prices, and insufficient institutional capacity further constrain their capabilities in effectively utilizing support and development assistance.
To fortify US-Caribbean relations, stronger engagement from the US Congress is crucial. Congressional initiatives, including new appropriations and committee hearings, can foster concrete benefits for the region.
In light of this, the US Congress should concentrate its attention on specific areas where strengthened relationships can advance both US interests and support Caribbean nations.
The Caribbean’s diverse economic landscape presents opportunities in the energy sector that can enhance US engagement. Nations such as Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago possess nearly 30 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, with potential for further offshore exploration.
At the same time, other Caribbean nations rely on reliable energy sources to ensure electricity stability during natural disasters, improve overall economic competitiveness, and incorporate renewable energy sources into their grids.
Three avenues emerge for potential US investments: natural gas exploration, liquefaction infrastructure, and the development of pipelines and LNG storage facilities.
Moreover, imported natural gas from Caribbean producers can be a cost-effective alternative to other energy suppliers in meeting the growing energy demands of the US, complementing domestic shale production in critical states like Texas and the Midwest.
Additionally, stronger ties with Southern Caribbean hydrocarbon producers can enhance regional energy security in Europe, decreasing reliance on Russian energy resources and increasing cargo exports to EU nations.
The ramifications of improved Caribbean energy security extend beyond regional benefits; lowering electricity prices can stimulate US tourism by making travel more affordable for American travelers.
Currently, much of the Caribbean—excluding Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago—faces some of the highest electricity prices in the Americas, often double or triple those charged in the US.
Since electricity constitutes a significant portion of operational costs for hotels—up to 70% due to air conditioning, lighting, and heating—these costs ultimately burden American tourists with higher prices.
Therefore, reducing electricity expenses can bolster consumers’ purchasing power while simultaneously addressing key migratory push factors, such as high living costs that drive individuals to seek opportunities in the United States.
In tandem with energy security, addressing crime and gang violence is paramount for capable governance in Caribbean nations.
The rise in violent crime, particularly in countries like Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, presents serious security issues, with homicide rates among the highest in Latin America.
Increased gang proliferation and the influx of illegal firearms—many originating from the United States—compound these challenges, leading to state emergencies and public safety concerns.
The decentralized nature of gang networks makes it difficult for Caribbean governments to combat these threats effectively.
For instance, Jamaica reported the identification of 379 gangs in 2021, with 140 notable instances in Trinidad and Tobago, thereby illuminating the fragmentation of organized crime in the region.
Measuring the threats posed by gang activity is critical, as these entities often fill voids left by governmental deficiencies, sometimes providing essential services and acting as de facto community leaders.
Nevertheless, confronting these security challenges through enhanced collaboration can work to protect US citizens traveling to the Caribbean and halt gang activities that could result in illicit trafficking across borders.
As popular travel destinations for Americans, regions like Jamaica face an urgent need for improved safety to ensure the well-being of US tourists.
In this context, collaboration with US agencies can be pivotal in strengthening Caribbean defense and law enforcement capabilities, especially in monitoring and seizing illegal arms.
Additionally, curbing gang proliferation contributes to interrupting transnational criminal networks utilizing Caribbean islands as transit points for drug trafficking.
Enhanced maritime security measures and the provision of technologies—such as satellite imagery and drone systems—can empower Caribbean governments to monitor and disrupt these illegal supply chains.
Looking ahead, the challenges facing Caribbean nations are intensifying, leading to consequences that extend beyond their borders, exerting influence on US interests as well.
Fostering consistent partnerships with the Caribbean could alleviate these issues, with US congressional engagement serving as a cornerstone for a strengthened relationship.
With crucial challenges spanning across energy security, crime, and infrastructure, congressional members must prioritize holistic strategies that allocate resources proportionately to the Caribbean, transcending isolated programs like the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI).
By embracing a comprehensive approach, the Caribbean region can receive the multi-faceted support it needs to achieve sustainable growth and stability.
Given the Caribbean’s strategic importance, the House Foreign Affairs Committee should consider convening a hearing to evaluate and highlight new opportunities for strengthening US interests through deeper collaboration in the region.
Building a robust foundation for long-term US-Caribbean partnerships is essential, moving from transient policy frameworks to enduring friendships that protect US interests along its “third border.”
image source from：https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/issue-brief/us-interests-can-benefit-from-stronger-congressional-ties-with-the-caribbean/
