New York, (Permanent Mission of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations) October 13, 2026 – St. Kitts and Nevis has reaffirmed its commitment to regional solidarity and international cooperation through the delivery of a statement on behalf of the 14 Member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), calling for progress towards a legally binding international convention on the protection of persons in the event of disasters. The statement was delivered by Her Excellency Dr. Mutryce Williams, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations, underscoring the Federation’s active role in advancing shared Caribbean priorities within the multilateral system.

For the Caribbean, strengthening international disaster response is an urgent priority. Hurricanes and other hazards can devastate communities, displace families, disrupt livelihoods, and place significant pressure on national resources. A legally binding convention would help establish greater clarity in international cooperation, facilitate timely assistance when national capacities are exceeded, and strengthen the protection of people affected by disasters, while respecting the sovereignty and primary responsibility of affected States.

Speaking on behalf of CARICOM, St. Kitts and Nevis underscored the need for a practical and inclusive convention that reflects the different circumstances of States and translates international commitments into meaningful action. The statement called for constructive dialogue, good-faith negotiations and compromise as Member States prepare for the Diplomatic Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, scheduled for 25 January to 12 February 2027.

The statement also highlighted the importance of ensuring that developing countries, particularly small island developing States and least developed countries, can participate meaningfully in the negotiations. Their firsthand experience of disasters and the challenges of recovery must inform the development of a framework capable of responding to the realities faced by vulnerable populations.

The delivery of CARICOM’s collective position reflects the importance of regional unity in amplifying the voice of Caribbean States on issues with far-reaching humanitarian and developmental consequences. For St. Kitts and Nevis, this engagement demonstrates how active multilateral diplomacy can advance national and regional priorities while contributing to international efforts to protect human life and dignity. As preparations for the 2027 Diplomatic Conference continue, St. Kitts and Nevis, alongside its CARICOM partners, remains committed to constructive engagement towards a convention that strengthens international cooperation and delivers practical protections for people affected by disasters.

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