In a global context where investing in youth is increasingly recognized as essential, Saint Lucia is making strides to uplift its younger population. The government prioritizes initiatives that not only provide basic needs—such as education, healthcare, and housing—but also foster significant economic development. This commitment is closely tied to the country’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), launched in 2016, which has generated substantial economic growth.
The inflow of funds from the CIP has positively impacted employment rates, thanks to various multi-million dollar projects driven by foreign investment. One noteworthy project is the construction of the 345-room Grand Hyatt luxury hotel, which is set to create around 2,000 jobs in construction, operations, and management. This initiative not only boosts the economy but also offers substantial opportunities for local youth to pursue careers in diverse sectors like hospitality, architecture, and banking.

Young professionals like Mathurin, a media and communications expert in Saint Lucia, express optimism about the CIP’s role in their careers. She emphasizes the importance of celebrating local talent and the need for resources that enable young creators to thrive. The CIP aims to provide a platform for young individuals to showcase their skills and further develop professionally.

Saint Lucia’s CIP allows foreign investors to gain citizenship through economic contributions, ranking third in the CBI Index of 2022 with a score of 87%. The Index evaluates citizenship by investment programmes based on several criteria, including investment costs, family citizenship opportunities, and processing ease. The country has excelled particularly in investment requirements and ease of processing, attracting a diverse pool of investors.

Beyond economic growth, the CIP also fosters wider business networks, which benefit young Saint Lucians. Collaborating with experienced investors provides local professionals with the opportunity to learn and develop their businesses. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government is also channeling CIP funds into improving public health infrastructure, as seen with recent donations of diagnostic equipment to St. Jude Hospital. This initiative highlights the programme’s broader benefits, extending support to both young and elderly citizens.

Overall, Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Programme exemplifies how strategic investments can yield mutual benefits for the economy and the community, ensuring a brighter future for its youth while providing investors with a secure environment for their families and businesses.