The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has extended its firm support and solidarity to the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) as they continue their journey toward achieving a full measure of self-government and realizing their aspirations for constitutional advancement and political self-determination.
The OECS sat it commends the BVI on the successful completion of the most comprehensive governance reform programme in its history—an unequivocal demonstration of its commitment to good governance, transparency, accountability, and democratic values. This reform agenda is not only a significant domestic milestone but also a model of responsive leadership that deserves international recognition.
The statement said, “We acknowledge the clear and measured aspirations articulated by the elected Government of the BVI, particularly their call to:
-Initiate constitutional negotiations with the United Kingdom on full internal self-government under a new pre-independence constitution.
-Ensure the full respect of the executive and legislative authority already devolved to the democratically elected institutions of governance.
-Lift the existing Order in Council that allows for unilateral constitutional suspension.
-Avoid any politically motivated economic impositions that would undermine the territory’s financial services sector or economic stability.”
The OECS said it also welcomes and endorses the findings of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization, as articulated in the official report of the visiting mission to the BVI in August 2024. The recommendations made by the Committee – including the implementation of a national education programme on independence, the establishment of a roadmap toward self-governance, and the facilitation of dialogue with the United Kingdom, potentially mediated by the United Nations – are timely, measured, and consistent with international law and principles of self-determination.
The OECS noted that the UN report reflects the genuine will of the people of the BVI and provides a sound framework for the Territory’s forward movement along the path of decolonization.
The OECS reaffirms its commitment to supporting this process in alignment with its longstanding advocacy for the right of all peoples to determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.
The statement closed by saying, “As the BVI continues its constitutional review process and engages its citizens in shaping the future of the Territory, the OECS stands ready to provide any support necessary – technical, diplomatic, or political – in solidarity with this legitimate pursuit of democratic self-governance. The OECS remains confident that, with principled leadership and the constructive engagement of all partners, including the United Kingdom and the United Nations, the British Virgin Islands can chart a future that honours its people’s aspirations, respects its democratic institutions, and ensures its sustainable development.”