By all measures, Dominica is a small island developing state with finite resources and outsized challenges. And yet, in recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in diplomatic expansion: new embassies, honorary consuls, and bilateral outreach beyond our traditional Caribbean and Commonwealth connections. This prompts a serious question many Dominicans are now quietly asking: Do we need more embassies? Or do we need more accountability and strategic focus?
The argument for expanding our diplomatic presence is not without merit. In a globalised world, small nations like ours must assert visibility, especially on climate financing, economic justice, and trade access. A stronger presence in key capitals may open doors for investment, aid, and influence. That is the theory.
But here’s the problem: visibility without capacity is a hollow pursuit. Diplomatic presence costs money that must be measured against national priorities such as healthcare access, climate resilience, food security, and job creation. Can we, in good conscience, pour scarce public funds into foreign missions while local clinics lack basic supplies or roads remain impassable in rural constituencies?
Even more concerning is the lack of public information about the performance and purpose of these embassies. What have they achieved? How do they align with Dominica’s core national interests? Are they managed transparently and evaluated independently? Who are our ambassadors, and what are their mandates? These questions deserve answers before we keep extending our diplomatic reach.
There is also the reputational risk. Embassy appointments have at times been viewed as political rewards rather than merit-based placements. This undermines trust and effectiveness, especially when high-level diplomats operate without proper oversight or training in international affairs. If our global footprint is to mean anything, it must be backed by professionalism, discipline, and clarity of mission.
This is not a call for isolationism. Dominica must be globally engaged. But global engagement is not the same as diplomatic inflation. It’s about being smart, strategic, and anchored in national development needs. A well-run, targeted diplomatic corps can do more with fewer embassies than an expansive network run loosely and without focus.
Dominica, it is time for the government to present a clear diplomatic strategy. One that explains not only where we are opening embassies, but why, for how long, and at what cost to the people who live right here on the island.
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