As we celebrate 44 years since the Treaty of Basseterre was signed, the chosen theme for this year’s activities epitomises our region’s resilience throughout the test of time - “Adapting, Innovating, Sustaining: A Unified OECS for a Changing World”. In 2025, we commemorate a growing organisation and people who continue to be internationally outstanding, demonstrating how sustainable models and social innovation allow small units to participate on the world stage.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
ACTIVITIES
OECS ACHIEVEMENTS
On June 18, 1981, the representatives of the Governments of the West Indies Associated States Council of Ministers signed the Treaty of Basseterre establishing the successor to the Council - the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. Since then, the OECS along with multiple regional and international partners have mobilized efforts to advance regional integration in the Eastern Caribbean which resulted in major key achievements as follows:
2001
Treaty
The OECS Member States decide to deepen the process of regional integration in the Eastern Caribbean when they agree to form an economic union under what is known as the Revised Treaty of Basseterre.
2001
June 2010
Revised Treaty
The Revised Treaty of Basseterre establishing the economic union is signed on the 18th June.
2011
Revised Treaty Amended
The Revised Treaty of Basseterre comes into force on the 21st January, effectively operationalizing the economic union for better socio-economic outcomes for all citizens of the OECS. The countries of this economic union continue to adopt a common approach to trade, health, education and the environment, agriculture, tourism and energy among other areas.
2011
February 2015
Martinique Joins
For the first time a French-speaking territory - Martinique, becomes Associate Member of the OECS. This accession reflects a major step forward to deepening the cooperation with French neighbouring territories and advancing regional integration in the Eastern Caribbean.
October 2018
Morocco Agreement
The Embassies of Eastern Caribbean States to the Kingdom of Morocco is created in Rabat.
October 2018
March 2019
Guadeloupe Joins
Guadeloupe becomes Associate Member of the OECS.
March 2025
Saint Martin Joins
Saint Martin becomes Associate Member of the OECS.
March 2025
CONTACT THE OECS 44TH ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE
All activities hosted as part of the 43rd Anniversary of the OECS are coordinated by the Anniversary Committee. For more information contact:
