THE CHARTER OF CIVIL SOCIETY
FOR THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY

ARTICLE VI

Political Rights

1. The States shall ensure the existence of a fair and open democratic system through the holding of free elections at reasonable intervals, by secret ballot, underpinned by an electoral system in which all can have confidence and which will ensure the free expression of the will of the people in the choice of their representatives.
   
   
2. The States shall take all appropriate measures to promote and maintain an effectively functioning representational system, including the holding of regular public sessions of representatives of the people.
   
   
3. Every person shall have the right to:
   (a) form a political party or organisation;
   (b) join a political party or organisation of his or her choice;
   (c) attend public meetings of political parties or organisations;
   (d) participate in the activities of a political party or organisation;
   (e) give expression to his or her political beliefs in a peaceful manner;
   (f) make himself or herself available for nomination for and election to any public office for which he or she qualifies.
   
   
4. The provisions of this Article shall not preclude the States from taking measures authorised by their Constitutions to regulate persons employed in the service of the State with respect to their participation in the activities of a political party or organisation.