The 45th OECS Anniversary marks a significant milestone in the journey of collective resilience that has defined the organisation since the signing of the Treaty of Basseterre in 1981. The theme is “One Vision, One Voice: Navigating Challenges, Shaping Our Future”. More than a celebration of history, the anniversary serves as a reminder that within a perpetually changing global environment marked by economic uncertainty, climate vulnerability, and geopolitical shifts, OECS citizens must work together in shaping a future defined by innovation and sustainability through community.
Echoing the recent exhortation of OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules, the anniversary celebrations underscore the importance of self-confidence and solidarity. In his remarks, No One Is Coming to Save Us - Which Is Why We Must Build Ourselves, Dr. Jules noted that “small states survive not by being self-sufficient, but by being systemsmart,” highlighting the importance of acting collectively where fragmentation weakens the region’s ability to respond to global challenges.
The theme “One Vision, One Voice” therefore speaks not only to the shared aspirations of OECS Member States, but also to the responsibility of every national to contribute to, protect progress, and direct the future of the region.
At the heart of the anniversary celebrations is the OECS 45 for 45 Changemakers Initiative, a volunteerism and service campaign inviting OECS nationals at home and in the diaspora to participate in acts of positive change in their communities. Suggested activities will be provided through the registration form, while participants will also have the opportunity to propose their own initiatives aligned with the spirit of community service, regional cooperation, and sustainable development.
Activities may include community clean-ups, mentorship programmes, environmental projects, school outreach initiatives, wellness campaigns, faith-based and values-driven initiatives, volunteer support for vulnerable groups, and other acts of service designed to make a meaningful impact across the OECS region.
In addition to the Changemakers Initiative, several commemorative activities are planned throughout the anniversary period with a base in Antigua and Barbuda, including:
The OECS Commission encourages citizens, organisations, schools, faith-based bodies, civil society groups, businesses, and communities across the region to participate in the anniversary activities and embrace the spirit of collective responsibility and regional pride that has sustained the OECS for 45 years.
Information on all the events is available on the official OECS 45th Anniversary webpage in English and French. For questions about participation, email media@oecs.int and engage with the OECS social media platforms, where updates and features will be shared throughout the celebration.