A message from the Office of the Executive Director.

Two decades ago, the leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) made a visionary and historic decision. Recognising that the safety of our people could no longer be managed in isolation, they established the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS). As we mark our 20th anniversary, I look back with immense pride at how far we have come and look forward with fierce resolve towards the work that lies ahead.

Over the past 20 years, the security landscape of the Caribbean has shifted dramatically. The threats we face are no longer just at our borders. They are sophisticated, fluid, and digital, quietly attempting to exploit our systems from the inside. Yet, through every evolution of transnational crime, CARICOM IMPACS has stood as the bedrock of the Region's collective defence.

From securing historic global events like Cricket World Cup 2007 to building the real-time intelligence networks that our border forces rely on every single day, CARICOM IMPACS has proven that the Caribbean is strongest when it acts as one. We have transformed regional security from a concept on paper into a daily, life-saving operational reality. We have shut down corridors for illicit trade, intercepted firearms, and disrupted human trafficking networks that target our most vulnerable.

But an institution is only as strong as its people and its partners. This milestone belongs to our dedicated staff, whose tireless work behind the scenes keeps our Region moving safely. It belongs to our Member States, our Chiefs of Police, Military Commanders and Customs and Immigration authorities among others. Without your trust and daily cooperation on the ground, we simply could not protect our borders. It also belongs to our international partners, who recognise that a secure Caribbean means a safer world.

As we mark this 20th anniversary, our mission has never been more urgent. We are not just maintaining the status quo, we are aggressively expanding our frontline capabilities, upgrading port and maritime security frameworks, tackling illicit financial flows, and deploying cutting-edge technology to stay miles ahead of criminal syndicates.

To the citizens of Caribbean, we will continue to roll up our sleeves, lead from the front, and drive the operational teamwork required to protect our communities and secure our economies, as well as defend the stability of our democracies.

Thank you for 20 years of shared resilience, partnership, and trust. Together, we will secure the next generation of the Caribbean. I know that it’s a hard and difficult undertaking, but let us not tire in doing the work of the community.

Sincerely,

Michael Jones

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR