Overview of issues & potential responses

Effective community development policies are close to non-existent in the OECS region and in urgent need of the attention of governments. In recognition of this need, many governments have established and sought to strengthen Community Development Departments or Ministries of Social Development. In some cases, they have established Ministries of Social Transformation i.e. Barbados and Saint Lucia, to address the inter-linked needs at the community and individual levels relating to social and human development.

Strengthening the community development process would ensure that vulnerable and 'at risk' persons in society have better access to service and assistance.  Currently, good models of community resource centers exist in Dominica, St. Vincent and St. Kitts.