The Caribbean has made significant progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in improving the lives of youth, but challenges remain. 

In terms of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), advances such as lower infant mortality rates and the reduction of infectious diseases have improved overall health conditions for young people. However, the region faces a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, are increasing, especially among youth in marginalized communities. Access to healthcare, including services related to sexual and reproductive health, can be limited due to policy frameworks and societal factors, which may contribute to challenges such as adolescent pregnancies and the transmission of HIV and other infections.

SDG 5 (Gender Equality) has seen progress with the development of frameworks like the CARICOM Regional Gender Equality Strategy, aimed at tackling gender disparities. However, gender-based violence remains a major concern, and while women outpace men in tertiary education, they still experience higher unemployment rates and are underrepresented in STEM fields and leadership positions. Meanwhile, male underrepresentation in higher education highlights another gender-related challenge. 

SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) remains a persistent challenge, as the Caribbean has some of the highest youth unemployment rates globally. The skills gap between education and job-market demands leaves many young people without access to quality employment, leading to a rise in informal and precarious jobs with limited protection. Climate change further threatens key economic sectors such as tourism and agriculture, exacerbating job insecurity. 

For SDG 14 (Life Below Water), the Caribbean’s marine environment is essential for economic stability, yet it faces severe threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Rising sea temperatures, coral bleaching, and sargassum influxes that negatively affect tourism and fisheries, directly impacting youth employment in coastal communities. Despite their critical role in marine conservation, young people remain largely excluded from decision-making processes. 

Finally, SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) highlights the importance of collaboration in advancing youth development, but youth-led initiatives continue to face difficulties in securing funding and institutional support. Weak coordination among youth organizations, governments, and the private sector limits progress, yet young people continue to drive innovative solutions to address these challenges. Moving forward, stronger investments in education, skills training, gender equity, and environmental sustainability, along with improved youth participation in policymaking, are necessary to ensure long-term development and prosperity for Caribbean youth.