A wave of deportations of undocumented nationals from the United States has brought renewed attention to the vulnerability of small island states navigating an increasingly complex global landscape.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, in delivering his 2025/26 Budget Address to Parliament, confirmed the ongoing repatriation of undocumented Saint Lucians, acknowledging that the situation stems from stricter enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.
“Mr. Speaker, let it be clear that based on our obligation under international law, Saint Lucia will accept without hesitation all its deported nationals,” the Prime Minister said, reaffirming Saint Lucia’s commitment to international norms even as it grapples with the consequences of shifting global dynamics.
Pierre warned that while Saint Lucia, like any sovereign nation, seeks security, prosperity, and the well-being of its citizens, it remains exposed to significant geopolitical forces.
“Small states like Saint Lucia encounter distinct challenges in their development due to their limited population and economic foundation, making them vulnerable to external shocks, economic downturns, and climate-induced events,” he stated.
He highlighted that many of these external pressures are shaped by the policies and positions of larger powers, particularly the United States.
“Over the last few months, we have been witnessing unprecedented changes in U.S. foreign policy towards the Caribbean, which has serious implications for small states,” he told the House.
Amid this increasingly turbulent foreign policy climate, the Saint Lucian Leader used his address to assert Saint Lucia’s commitment to a principled and balanced diplomacy rooted in respect, peace, and self-determination.
“We will continue to pursue a cautious and principled foreign policy that promotes respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty; refraining from aggression towards one another and avoiding interference in each other’s internal affairs,” he said.
Pierre issued a strong regional call for peace and solidarity, urging resolution to ongoing regional disputes and lifting of economic blockades.
“We consider the Caribbean a zone of peace and call for the peaceful resolution of the territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, the removal of the embargo against Cuba and Venezuela, and the pursuit of peace and stability for the people of Haiti,” Pierre declared.
He also reaffirmed Saint Lucia’s support for the people of Taiwan and their right to self-determination and peaceful coexistence, positioning the island’s foreign policy within the framework of democratic values and international cooperation.
He emphasized unity as a source of strength, stating, “We believe the Caribbean is stronger when united and therefore reaffirm our commitment to the OECS, CARICOM and other regional institutions.”
