Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)

The Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) is a coalition of Caribbean Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO). It was established in 1991 to sensitize NGOs and the general public on key policy issues and to impact policy makers on decisions which put the interest of Caribbean people at the centre of Caribbean development. Since its inception, the CPDC has lobbied regional and international governments on behalf of the most vulnerable sections of Caribbean populations whose voices are often less heard. With a history of lobbying and an impressive portfolio of projects and programmes implemented on behalf of Caribbean peoples, CPDC has been recognized as an important social partner in the development of the region. Their Mandate – ’Making an Impact on Public Policy’ Their Vision- “Putting People at the Centre of Caribbean Sustainable Development” Their Mission- “To build civil society organizations partnerships through engagement with people, governments, and other relevant partners to influence the design and implementation of policies that empower and improve the lives of Caribbean people”. CPDC’s research and advocacy has shown how policy implemented at the international regional and national level can adversely impact the lives of Caribbean people.  Their advocacy work aims to give voice to many social sectors within the Caribbean society who would have limited opportunity to input public policies that impact their lives. CPDC consults the Caribbean public on its research and advocacy positions, it uses the recommendations from these consultancies to lobby policy makers in an effort to influence decisions that favour Caribbean people. CPDC regularly hosts seminars and workshops to educate its members and partners about the many implications of international and regional policy frameworks on Caribbean development and to build the capacity of regional NGOs to serve their beneficiaries.   CPDC’s Mandate is to help Caribbean NGOs to: Understand how policies affecting Caribbean people are made. Share information about policies and decision making processes. Work to influence and bring positive change to the development process. Lobby for policies which are in the interest of Caribbean people.   CPDC promotes development which: Is people oriented Is environmentally sustainable Protects human rights Is equitable in terms of gender, race, class, age and ability/disability Encourages leadership and learning at all levels Is based on active and effective participation of people in the decision-making process   CPDC’s Organizational Structure The CPDC Assembly of Members is its highest decision making body which decides on thematic priorities. The Assembly elects a Board of Directors to manage and monitor its programs between assemblies. The Board functions through specialized committees each of which works to enhance an aspect of CPDC’s institutional capacity to deliver its programs. The hub for the coordination and implementation of CPDC’s programs is the Regional Secretariat based in Barbados. CPDC’s Programmatic Focus Governance and Participation Sustainable Development Capacity Building Trade and Economic Development Liberalisation Gender is prioritized as a cross thematic issue within CPDC Programming