The Netherlands and the British Antilles under the initials OCT are dependencies governed by their own land, but which enjoy an internal autonomy. Unlike the French Overseas Departments (DOM), they are not part of the European Community, but only associated to it. This association allows them to enjoy the implementation of the Lomé Convention on a large scale. The mission, assigned to the Community is to promote the economic and social development in the OCT especially in the perspective of the single market. Up to now, Community actions have materialized by the setting up of basis infrastructures and by the development of tourism. In spite of Community incentives, the regional cooperation still
remains very marginal in the small islands which are likely to close up. This position is
strengthened by their exclusion from the CARICOM because of their special political status, with the notable exception of Montserrat.