BEC at 70 inks ‘Barbados Declaration’

Marking its 70th anniversary with a forward-looking agenda, the Barbados Employers’ Confederation (BEC) on Monday signed a landmark “Barbados Declaration”, a formal pledge to champion social dialogue and sustainable economic growth in an era of rapid technological change.

The Barbados Employers Confederation “Barbados Declaration,” a formal pledge to champion social dialogue and sustainable economic growth signed by Minister of Labour Colin Jordan as well as BEC Executive Director. (Photo Credit: Ricardo Roberts/Barbados TODAY)

Founded in 1956, the BEC has evolved from a budding group of business leaders into one of the three pillars of the Social Partnership. The anniversary event, attended by Minister of Labour Colin Jordan, trade union leaders and private sector executives, served as both a reflection on the BEC’s industrial relations legacy and a roadmap for the “next chapter” of the Barbadian economy.

Minister of Labour Colin Jordan reaffirms commitment to workplace safety as he makes a strong point on Work-At-Height and Protection of Wages legislation. (Photo Credit: Ricardo Roberts/Barbados TODAY)

The centrepiece of the launch was the signing of the Barbados Declaration, a document outlining five core commitments regarding advocacy, the future of work, and the strengthening of the relationship between enterprises and the workforce.

Sheena Mayers-Granville, Executive Director of the BEC, provided an overview of the declaration, framing it as a “statement of intent” rather than a ceremonial gesture. She recalled the organisation’s roots, noting that its founders realised 70 years ago that if employers were not at the table, decisions shaping the economy would be made without them.

Executive Director Barbados Employers Confederation Sheena Mayers Granville. (Photo Credit: Ricardo Roberts/Barbados TODAY)

“Seventy years later, we are still at the table,” Mayers-Granville declared. “Dialogue is not a weakness. Sitting across the table from a trade union or a minister of government and seeking a shared solution is not a concession—it is the only pathway to sustainable outcomes.”

Addressing the frequent friction between labour and capital, Mayers-Granville offered this perspective:

“The interests of workers and the interests of employers are not opposites; they never were. A business that cannot grow cannot create jobs, and a workforce that is not supported cannot sustain growth. These truths are not competing; they are the same truth seen from different angles.”

BEC President Gail-Ann King described the 70-year milestone as not merely a celebration of longevity, but a reaffirmation of the BEC’s role in maintaining national stability.

“Today is not simply a celebration of longevity. It is a moment of reflection, recommitment, and renewal,” King said. “For 70 years, the BEC has advocated for enterprise development, sound industrial relations, and productive dialogue in the national interest. We are particularly proud of our contribution to the social partnership model, which remains one of the defining features of Barbadian democracy.”

As the global landscape shifts towards digital transformation and climate-resilient economies, the BEC’s leadership is more vital than ever, said King. “The next decade will require adaptability, innovation, and collaboration,” she added. “Employers must continue investing in people while embracing digital transformation and strengthening productivity.”

Minister of Labour Colin Jordan congratulated the BEC on its “platinum anniversary”, specifically praising the organisation for bringing order to the industrial relations landscape. He reflected on the history of 1926 and 1937, noting that the BEC’s formation helped shift the employer approach from unilateral decision-making to intentional engagement.

The minister also used the platform to issue a call for more businesses to join the confederation, citing a noticeable difference in how BEC members handle labour disputes compared to non-members.

“In my ministry, we recognise a difference between BEC members – those who allow the BEC to be their advocate – some others,” Jordan said. “We see a difference in the approach to dealing with people. We need organisations like the BEC to bring some order, stability, and confidence.”

As the BEC enters its eighth decade, the “Barbados Declaration” is being promoted as the benchmark by which the organisation expects to be measured. With challenges ranging from AI integration to shifting demographic realities, the BEC signalled it will remain an “active participant” rather than an observer.

As Mayers-Granville said: “70 years is a long time, but it’s not a reason to slow down. The BEC intends to be here for more than 70 years in the future.”

What to Know – Barbados Declaration:

​Advocacy: Creating an environment where enterprises can grow, not just survive.

​Future of Work: Active leadership in AI, digitalisation, and skills frameworks.

​Industrial Relations: Protecting the Barbadian model of mutual respect and negotiation.

​Sustainability: Contributing to national sustainability and decent work goals.

(RR)