OECS Condemns Threats to Democracy in the British Virgin Islands

Urges UK to Uphold Principles of Self-Determination

The Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) are alarmed at the Governor’s request for additional powers, which, if granted, would enable him to “bypass the Territorial Government and unilaterally implement recommendations” from the Commission of Inquiry (COI) for governance reforms in the BVI.

The OECS strongly condemned any efforts to “undermine the legitimate government of the BVI,” standing in solidarity with its people and government in their pursuit of necessary reforms.

“Commending the diligence” of the democratically elected government and citizens of the BVI for the progress made in implementing governance reforms since the successful elections in April 2023, the OECS leaders acknowledged the ongoing work required for the recommended reforms. They called on the United Kingdom to “provide technical assistance” to support the BVI government in this process.

Expressing deep concern over attempts to “bypass the elected government of the BVI,” the OECS leaders highlighted the potential threat to democratic principles. They emphasized that such actions would “undermine the progress achieved” and “jeopardise the democratically elected government.”

The OECS “concurred with the BVI’s assertion” that granting additional powers to the Governor would be a ‘Colonial Act’ incompatible with modern democratic governance. They reiterated that the responsibility for “strengthening governance in the BVI lies with the elected representatives and the people,” ensuring good governance, transparency, and accountability.

Emphasising the “inalienable right of the people of the British Virgin Islands to self-determination,” the OECS leaders reiterated that any decision to grant the Governor’s request would contravene democratic principles outlined in “international agreements to which the United Kingdom is a party.”

Endorsing the UN resolution on the Question of the British Virgin Islands (A/RES/78/79), the OECS urged the UK government to “work collaboratively with the democratically elected government of the BVI to support the ongoing reforms process.” They strongly urged the UK government to “refrain from granting undemocratic powers to the Governor,” emphasising that such an act would “hinder democracy in the BVI and erode trust” between the people and the government.

The OECS reaffirmed its commitment to providing “technical and other support” to the BVI as an Associate Member of the Organisation, reinforcing their dedication to fostering good governance and democratic principles in the region.