International, National and Regional Security Arrangements in the Caribbean

Abstract

The postwar discourse on self-determination in the English-speaking Caribbean is littered with references to the smallness, weakness and vulnerability of the island territories of the region, and the need, consequently, for some form or other of political cooperation designed to enhance viability and lessen vulnerability. On the other hand, since this has been a relatively peaceful (non-conflictual) geographical zone, constituted as it is of island territories separated by water, and having, during either the period of colonialism or that of independence, low levels of military and communication capability, governments have not in general asserted themselves to possess a sense of threat to their countries’ security.