Securing the Caribbean’s Zone of Peace: Why Infrastructure Security Matters
Date Published
For decades, the Caribbean has been known as a Zone of Peace — a region where island nations strive to maintain stability, sovereignty, and cooperation. Yet, as Trinidadian trade unionist and former senator David Abdulah warns, this balance is now under threat from rising geopolitical tensions and an increased foreign military presence.
In this evolving context, the security of civilian infrastructure takes on new importance. Preserving the region’s “zone of peace” requires ensuring the resilience of ports, airports, and logistics hubs that sustain economic growth and regional development.
The “Zone of Peace”: An Ideal Worth Protecting
The idea of a Caribbean Zone of Peace dates back to the 1970s, when leaders such as Errol Barrow of Barbados advocated for a region free from foreign military dominance.
That vision rests on three key pillars: stability, cooperation, and sovereignty.
Today, however, several governments have signed bilateral agreements allowing the deployment of foreign troops, vessels, and equipment with limited transparency.
This creates a new security environment where the line between military and civilian protection is increasingly blurred. Critical infrastructure — ports, airports, and industrial facilities — may find themselves at the center of unprecedented geopolitical pressures.
When Geopolitics Redefines Security Priorities
According to Abdulah, the growing number of foreign exercises and deployments is destabilizing the region.
In response, governments and private operators must strengthen their local capacity by:
• Improving surveillance and access control at sensitive sites
• Ensuring compliance with international safety and security standards
• Protecting logistics and supply chains from potential disruptions
Well-secured infrastructure is the backbone of economic and political stability. It ensures trade continuity, investor confidence, and operational resilience even in times of uncertainty.
The Role of Specialized Security Providers
At Sectus Technologies, we believe security should be proactive, mobile, and adaptable.
Our expertise lies in the supply and rental of detection and screening equipment such as:
• Walk-through metal detectors
• Handheld scanners
• X-ray inspection systems for baggage and cargo
• Accessories and calibration services
This flexible approach meets the needs of Caribbean infrastructure — ports, airports, industrial zones, and government facilities. Our equipment can be deployed quickly, scaled to the site’s requirements, and removed once the operation is complete.
A Regional Approach: From Canada to the Caribbean
Operating across both Canada and the Caribbean, Sectus combines the rigor of North American standards with a deep understanding of local realities.
This dual expertise allows us to:
• Train local teams on best practices
• Adapt solutions to island logistics constraints
• Offer flexible short- and long-term rental options
In an uncertain geopolitical climate, building local capacity becomes an act of sovereignty. By strengthening infrastructure security, Caribbean operators contribute directly to regional stability and independence.
Building a Sustainable and Cooperative Future
Protecting the Caribbean’s “Zone of Peace” also means promoting sustainable and cooperative security.
Governments, operators, and private partners must work together to build resilient infrastructure suited to the region’s unique environment.
At Sectus, we see security not just as an obligation but as a driver of development and peace.
Contact us
We offer free assessments of access control and screening needs for ports, airports, and event facilities.
‣ Contact our team to learn more about our detection and access control solutions tailored to the Caribbean context.
Sources
Progressive International – The Caribbean’s Zone of Peace Under Threat: A Conversation with David Abdulah, November 5 2025. https://progressive.international/wire/2025-11-05-the-caribbeans-zone-of-peace-under-threat-a-conversation-with-david-abdulah/en
Errol Barrow’s 1979 speech on the Caribbean Zone of Peace – CARICOM Regional Archives