CBI is not a sell-out but a strategic lifeline for SVG

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves’ sweeping rejection of citizenship by investment (CBI) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is not an act of clarity, but of closed-mindedness. At a time when our nation faces rising unemployment, youth migration, and limited economic diversification, we need bold solutions — not outdated ideologies masquerading as moral principles.

It is ironic that the prime minister, known for his strong anti-imperialist rhetoric, is now leaning on a European court ruling to bolster his case. The same Europe he accuses of bullying small states is now being held up as a beacon of legal virtue? SVG is not a member of the European Union. Why should a European court dictate our sovereign development path?

The prime minister argues that “citizenship is not for sale”. I agree — our citizenship should not be sold. But CBI, when done correctly, is not about selling identity. It is about forming strategic partnerships that bring value to our country while maintaining the dignity and security of our people. Our OECS neighbours — Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, and others — have all benefited from well-regulated CBI programmes that support infrastructure, healthcare, education, and climate resilience.

SVG has its own unique attributes that make it an ideal candidate for a strictly monitored CBI programme:

• Our geographic location offers prime opportunities for sustainable tourism development.
• Our health and education sectors need investment that CBI can provide.
• Our infrastructure and transport systems, especially across the multi-island state, require capital for modernisation.
• Our technological development must accelerate to retain skilled talent and foster innovation.

The prime minister claims that CBI is “reckless” and “unsustainable”. But this is not a flaw of the programme — it is a failure of leadership and governance. The real recklessness lies in refusing to explore new avenues to lift our people out of economic stagnation. We are losing our youth, our talent, our future because they no longer see a future here. Isn’t that the greater betrayal of citizenship?

With the proper safeguards — world-class due diligence, restrictions on political participation, and transparency in fund allocation — CBI can work for SVG. It has worked elsewhere. The key is not to reject it out of fear, but to manage it with vision, wisdom, and accountability.

Sadly, these are qualities our current leadership lacks. The prime minister has demonstrated neither the foresight nor the adaptability required in today’s globalised economy. True leadership does not cling to rigid principles at the expense of national development. It finds creative ways to protect sovereignty while empowering citizens.

CBI is not a sellout. It’s a strategic tool. Let’s stop playing defence and start building a future with confidence, courage, and competent governance.

Mr. Lewis 

Citizen abroad

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