PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – The Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) have expressed deep concern over the recent build-up of naval and military assets in the Southern Caribbean, warning of its potential impact on the region’s socio-economic, political, and humanitarian stability.
As the world prepares to observe the 59th World Day of Peace, the Bishops recalled Pope Paul VI’s 1966 call for humanity to “pursue negotiation rather than war.”
They noted that the Caribbean, like much of the world, stands once again at a crossroads where dialogue and cooperation are urgently needed to ease geopolitical tensions and foster lasting peace.
The statement also addressed the moral challenges facing the region, particularly the destructive effects of the narcotics trade on Caribbean societies and families.
The Bishops condemned both the scourge of drugs and the arbitrary taking of life, affirming that such acts violate the sacredness of human life and cannot be justified as a solution.
Equally, they rejected any disregard for the sovereignty of independent nations in the name of border security. “War or the threat of war is never the right solution,” the statement said, echoing Pope Francis’ reminder that we must “never become accustomed to war.”
The Bishops warned that the presence of warships and disruption of marine livelihoods pose immediate threats to regional stability and the welfare of Caribbean peoples.
They called on the nations of the region to continue rejecting aggression and intimidation, emphasizing that history has shown that dialogue and cooperation are the most effective paths forward.
“In this Jubilee Year of Hope,” the Bishops wrote, “we reaffirm our shared brotherhood that transcends borders and national interests.” They urged leaders to de-escalate militarization, renew commitments to dialogue, and protect the vulnerable and economically marginalized.
To the faithful, the Bishops appealed for renewed faith, prayer, and hope. “Acts of reconciliation, the faithful observance of the sacraments, and the family rosary remain powerful expressions of hope—expressions that can change hearts and move heaven,” they affirmed.
The statement concluded with a message of solidarity:
“We stand with all the peoples of the Caribbean, especially those most affected by these developments. Together, we place our hope, trust, and prayers in the pursuit of a peaceful and just resolution that upholds human dignity, national sovereignty, and the common good.”
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