A 40 per cent jump in case filings is putting the Caribbean Court of Justice’s case management systems in sharper focus, with President Justice Winston Anderson pledging to keep the growing workload from slowing the delivery of justice.
Speaking at the opening of the Court’s 2026/2027 judicial year in Saint Lucia, Anderson reported the increase and outlined measures to strengthen efficiency.
“As the court’s load continues to grow, we will rigorously apply our case management and judgment delivery procedures to ensure the efficient and timely administration of justice,” he said.
The CCJ delivered 17 judgments arising from appeals and special applications across its five appellate member states during the previous judicial year. It also delivered two judgments in its original jurisdiction, which addresses matters arising under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.
The Court now has nine appeals and 14 special leave applications before it, with judgments reserved in eight appellate matters.
To manage its workload, the CCJ is reviewing procedures, improving internal operations and strengthening its use of technology. Under its Strategic Plan for 2025–2032, it has also begun introducing performance benchmarks, progress reviews and data-driven assessments to track results.
Anderson said the Court has heard and determined more than 500 matters across its original and appellate jurisdictions since its establishment.
But while its caseload is growing, expanding its role as the region’s final appellate court remains a challenge. Only five CARICOM countries, Guyana, Barbados, Belize, Dominica and Saint Lucia, have accepted that jurisdiction.
Reflecting on the institution’s first 21 years, Anderson said its next phase must focus on extending its reach and strengthening public confidence in regional justice.
“We have spent the first two decades building the court. Now we must deepen its reach and strengthen its impact,” he said.
