The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has reaffirmed that its decision to exclude Haiti from the third-country nationals Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States was guided by national capacity considerations, while maintaining a longstanding commitment to humanitarian support and regional solidarity.
The agreement, which establishes a non-binding framework for cooperation on certain third-country nationals present in the United States, applies to specific CARICOM member states but excludes Haiti. The exclusion has generated public discussion, prompting further clarification from the Government on the rationale behind the decision.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew underscored the balance the Federation must maintain between compassion and national responsibility.
“Every decision made is guided by the best interests of our country, while remaining mindful of our responsibility to others. As a small nation with limited resources, we must act with wisdom to safeguard our future,” Dr. Drew said.
Government officials have stressed that the exclusion of Haiti is not a withdrawal of support, nor a departure from regional solidarity. Rather, it reflects an assessment of St. Kitts and Nevis’ current capacity to absorb additional inflows without placing undue strain on essential systems such as healthcare, housing, infrastructure, and social services.
Historically, St. Kitts and Nevis has been among the Caribbean countries that have consistently demonstrated support for the people of Haiti. The Federation has repeatedly advocated for Haiti at regional and international levels, including at the United Nations, calling for humanitarian assistance, political stability, and international intervention to address the country’s ongoing crisis.
The Government has also maintained a humanitarian response to Haitians who arrive on its shores, ensuring access to care, protection, and due process in accordance with international obligations. Over the years, Haitians have been integrated into communities across the Federation, contributing to various sectors of the economy.
Within the framework of the MOU, officials have reiterated that St. Kitts and Nevis retains full discretion to accept or reject any individual proposed for transfer by the United States. The agreement also includes strict safeguards, explicitly excluding individuals with violent or sexual offence criminal histories, and establishes operational limits aligned with national capacity. All relocation and support costs under the arrangement are to be borne by the United States.
The Government has emphasised that the decision regarding Haiti reflects a measured, transparent approach to migration management, one that recognises humanitarian realities while acknowledging the limits faced by a small island developing state.
As discussions continue regionally and internationally on Haiti’s situation, St. Kitts and Nevis says it remains committed to advocating for meaningful solutions, while ensuring that decisions taken at home protect national stability and the wellbeing of its people.
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