CariFLAGS opened 2025 with a four-day leadership meeting in Kingston, Jamaica, marking an important moment of transition for the regional LGBTQI+ network. The gathering brought together organisational leaders to reflect on the state of equality and human rights across the Caribbean and to strengthen the structures needed to support sexual and gender minorities in the years ahead.
The meeting focused on institutional development and long-term sustainability. Participants conducted a comprehensive review of CariFLAGS’ internal systems, assessed capacity needs, and engaged in peer-led learning sessions aimed at strengthening governance and coordination. The group also closed out a three-year project supported by the Robert Carr Fund—one that played a central role in building the network’s foundations and broadening its reach.
Several key organisational documents were advanced during the convening. Leadership worked through the final stages of updating the network’s by-laws, refining a governance transition roadmap, agreeing on terms of reference for a new strategic plan, and shaping a draft communications strategy. The meeting also produced an operational plan for the secretariat and a costed work plan for 2025, setting the stage for a more structured and strategic year of implementation.
As part of its ongoing movement-building mandate, CariFLAGS also hosted its annual partner discussions. Representatives from the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), UNAIDS, and UNDP shared updates on their respective work plans and priority areas. These exchanges helped identify opportunities for collaboration, reduce duplication, and strengthen collective efforts to address inequality across the region.
CariFLAGS enters the year with renewed funding from the Robert Carr Network Fund, the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice, and ILGA-NAC—support that anchors the organisation’s ability to deepen engagement with affiliates and expand leadership and capacity-building initiatives throughout the Caribbean.
With stronger governance tools, clearer strategic direction, and reinforced partnerships, the network moves into 2025 with a firm commitment to advancing regional LGBTQI+ rights and supporting the communities it serves.
