Special Issue: The Caribbean in the Global Economy: Research on Emerging Markets and Sustainable Growth

2024-07-11

Call For Papers for Special Issue

The Caribbean in the Global Economy: Research on Emerging Markets and Sustainable Growth

Guest Editors:

Dr. Luis Manuel Baquero Rosas, Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico

Dr. Elizabeth Cortés Pérez, University of Puerto Rico – Arecibo Campus

Deadline for Submissions: September 30, 2024

With its unique blend of cultures, economies, and geographical attributes, the Caribbean region has long interested scholars and policymakers alike. Globalization presents opportunities and challenges for these economies as they strive for sustainable growth and integration into the global economy. The Caribbean's economic history is deeply rooted in colonialism, where European powers established plantations and exploited its resources. Traditionally, the region relied on agriculture, particularly sugar, coffee, and bananas (Clegg et al., 2020). However, in the 20th century, tourism emerged as a significant economic catalyst alongside industries like mining and oil (Sheller, 2020).

Globalization has improved economic integration in the Caribbean, providing new expansion opportunities. Trade liberalization and regional trade agreements like the Caribbean Community and the Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union have made it easier for businesses to access markets and invest (Bishop, 2013). These agreements aim to enhance competitiveness and promote economic diversity, reducing external shocks. The region's economic development relies heavily on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), particularly in the tourism sector, which has led to infrastructure construction and job creation (Connell, 2013). However, tourism's dependence on it poses potential risks due to global economic fluctuations and environmental disasters (Becken et al., 2014).

The Caribbean region faces significant challenges in climate change and environmental degradation, particularly in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These challenges include rising sea levels, severe meteorological events, and biodiversity depletion (Sheller, 2020). Sustainable development and a shift towards a green economy are crucial. Renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and geothermal resources, can help reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhance energy security (Blechinger et al., 2015). Initiatives like the Caribbean Renewable Energy Development Programme (CREDP) aim to promote the adoption of clean energy and reduce carbon emissions in the region. The Caribbean faces persistent socio-economic inequality, affecting income, education, and access to services. Addressing these disparities is crucial for economic development and societal harmony (CEPAL, 2022). Education and skill development are essential for human capital improvement and economic resilience. Allocating resources to education and vocational training can equip the workforce for sectors like information technology and financial services (Connell, 2013). Promoting entrepreneurship and supporting small and medium-sized firms can stimulate innovation and generate employment opportunities.

The Caribbean's future in the global economy depends on its ability to overcome obstacles and capitalize on globalization's opportunities. Key long-term growth measures include diversifying economies, investing in sustainable development, and resolving socio-economic inequities. Regional collaboration and integration, such as strengthening institutions like CARICOM and promoting cooperation in climate resilience, commerce, and innovation, can enhance the region's international negotiation capabilities (Lincoln Lenderking et al., 2021).

We invite scholars, economists, and practitioners to contribute their insights on various topics, including but not limited to the dynamics of emerging markets within the Caribbean, strategies for sustainable growth, the impact of international trade agreements, and the socio-economic implications of technological advancements. Contributions should focus on empirical research, theoretical analyses, and policy-oriented studies that provide novel perspectives and actionable recommendations based on the following topics:

  • Economic Integration and Trade Agreements
  • Socio-Economic Impacts of Globalization
  • Sustainable Development and Environmental Policies
  • Tourism, Hospitality, and Economic Diversification
  • Technological Innovation and Digital Transformation
  • Financial Integration and Capital Flows in the Caribbean

Final acceptance depends on the reviewers’ judgment regarding the following:

  • Thematic fit: Does the submission contribute to the topic of the special issue?
  • Theoretical contribution: Does the submission offer novel insights or extend existing considerations?
  • if applicable: Empirical contribution: Are the study design, data analysis, and results rigorous and appropriate to the research questions? Do empirical findings offer innovative insights?

All submissions should be prepared for blind review per the LABSREVIEW author guidelines (https://labsreview.org/index.php/albus/libraryFiles/downloadPublic/1). Informal inquiries regarding the special issue (topics, potential fit, etc.) are welcome and can be directed to the guest editors lbaquero@pucpr.edu and elizabeth.cortes@upr.edu 

References

Becken, S., Mahon, R., Rennie, H. G., & Shakeela, A. (2014). The tourism disaster vulnerability framework: An application to tourism in small island destinations. Natural hazards, 71, 955-972.

Bishop, M. L. (2013). The Political Economy of Caribbean Development. In Palgrave Macmillan UK eBooks. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137316103

Blechinger, P., Richter, K., & Renn, O. (2015). Barriers and Solutions to the Development of Renewable Energy Technologies in the Caribbean. In Springer proceedings in energy (pp. 267–284). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15964-5_24

CEPAL, N. (2022). Social Panorama of Latin America and the Caribbean 2022: Transforming education as a basis for sustainable development. ECLAC.

Clegg, P., Mahon, R., McConney, P., & Oxenford, H. (Eds.). (2020). The Caribbean blue economy. London, UK: Routledge.

Connell, J. (2013). Islands at risk?: environments, economies and contemporary change. Edward Elgar Publishing

Lincoln Lenderking, H., Robinson, S. A., & Carlson, G. (2021). Climate change and food security in Caribbean small island developing states: challenges and strategies. International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Ecology, 28(3), 238-245.

Sheller, M. (2020). Reconstructing tourism in the Caribbean: connecting pandemic recovery, climate resilience and sustainable tourism through mobility justice. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 29(9), 1436–1449. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2020.1791141