The Caribbean Community Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) is the regional body responsible for coordinating and implementing CARICOM’s crime and security agenda.
Headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago, IMPACS is the focus for regional security efforts.
Its core mission includes:
- Strengthening regional cooperation on crime prevention
- Enhancing border and maritime security
- Combating transnational threats like drug trafficking, firearms smuggling, and human trafficking
IMPACS is leading a strategic initiative – the CARICOM Security Strategy (CSS), which aims to modernize security institutions and improve public safety across member states.
Canada sits alongside the European Union, United Kingdom, Inter-American Development Bank, and Caribbean Development Bank as an international development partner on the CARICOM Security Strategy (CSS) steering committee. Through this role, Canada helps shape a forward-looking regional framework that:
- Leverages frontier technologies (AI, predictive analytics) for threat anticipation
- Aligns national policies with international human-rights and public-health standards
- Modernizes and digitizes security infrastructure across member states.
Canada recently held consultations with IMPACS.
June 23, 2025
The Canadian High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago held a productive meeting with representatives of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), reaffirming Canada’s commitment to enhancing regional security and addressing shared transnational threats.
The delegation from the Canadian High Commission was led by His Excellency, Michael Callan, High Commissioner of Canada to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and included Ms. Sylvie Bédard, Director General for Central America and Caribbean, Global Affairs Canada and Mr. Stuart Shaw, Counsellor, Political and Public Affairs, High Commission of Canada to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
The high-level discussions with Ms. Tonya Ayow, Deputy Executive Director and Mr. Earl Harris, Director, Corporate Services from CARICOM IMPACS, focussed on deepening collaboration in the critical areas of crime and security.
The meeting, which took place on 16 June 2025, covered a wide range of topics including border security enhancements, combatting transnational organised crime, capacity building and training as well as cyber security and emerging threats among issues.
Ms. Bédard said that Canada recognises the vital role CARICOM IMPACS plays in safeguarding the security of the Caribbean Region. “Our visit today underscores Canada’s steadfast commitment to working hand-in-hand with our CARICOM partners to address shared security challenges and foster a more secure and prosperous hemisphere for all”.
Ms. Ayow expressed CARICOM IMPACS’ gratitude for Canada’s continued support. “Our ongoing partnership with Canada is invaluable to our efforts to strengthen the Region’s crime and security architecture. These collaborative discussions are crucial for developing effective, coordinated responses to the complex threats we face”, she added.
The discussions were a testament to the enduring relationship between Canada and CARICOM IMPACS, rooted in shared values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Both parties reiterated their dedication to working collaboratively to achieve mutual security goals and promote regional resilience.
Source: CARICOM IMPACS