St. Kitts and Nevis Government Reaffirms Commitment to Addressing Crime and Violence

Senator, the Honourable Isalean Phillip.

Government Officials and Community Leaders Unite to Address Crime and Violence

Government officials and community leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to a multi-pronged strategy to address crime and violence in St. Kitts and Nevis, highlighting reintegration programmes, youth engagement initiatives, and a public health approach to prevention. Senator Isalean Phillip, Minister of Social Development & Gender Affairs, Youth Empowerment, Ageing & Disabilities, and co-chair of the Citizen Security Task Force, emphasised the Ministry’s central role in reintegrating incarcerated individuals and strengthening communities through development initiatives.

Community Policing and Reintegration Efforts

Speaking on the evolving methods of law enforcement, Senator Phillip remarked, “Policing is taking a bit of a softer approach to re-engage with the community and rebuild trust, which is, I think, very important and contributes to the increased rate of solving some of the crimes that we’ve seen.” She lauded community policing strategies, including partnerships between police liaison officers and the Ministry of Education, which are addressing a concerning rise in youth drug use—an issue exacerbated by the decriminalisation of cannabis. The Minister pointed to the National Intervention Team’s school programmes as a proactive step.

Addressing the Root Causes of Crime and Violence

Family Counsellor at the Citizen Security Secretariat, Alicia Collins, highlighted the Secretariat’s focus on early intervention and healing. “We see families reaching out to us, they’re asking for support in the homes… ‘I have suffered from a lot of trauma that I’ve never gotten the chance to heal from. How can I not pass on this trauma to my children?’” she shared, describing a shift in public openness toward counselling and mental health support. Collins further outlined the Secretariat’s restorative justice efforts, community mediation, and reintegration support aimed at reducing repeat offences and building stronger family units.

Engaging Youth and Building Stronger Communities

Sergeant Charmaine Audain, who leads the National Intervention Team, provided insight into programmes connecting law enforcement and youth through cultural and sports activities, including police camps, clubs, and school visits. “We’re also involved with bringing back the prison ambassador for youth… We have an ongoing Easter camp with over 150 children, learning drills, history, and discipline,” said Audain. Citizen Security Secretariat Coordinator Eartha Carey acknowledged the crucial support of stakeholders in advancing the national strategy against crime.

A Public Health Approach to Crime and Violence

Local public health researcher, Hance Richards

Local public health researcher Hance Richards delivered a compelling presentation framing crime and violence as a public health epidemic—comparable to diseases like COVID-19, dengue, and yellow fever. He advocated for preventative strategies that target the “social, economic and psychological pathogens” behind criminal behaviour. “We have lost 412 individuals to violence in the past two decades,” Richards noted. “That’s nearly a generation… primarily young men.”

Early Intervention and Sustained Support

Richards linked community violence to trauma, academic struggles, mental health challenges, and increased suicide attempts among youth, stressing the importance of early intervention and sustained support. “Public health deals with everyone… crime and violence, be it domestic or otherwise,” Richards said. Calling for continued financial and community backing, Richards urged citizens and organisations to assist at-risk youth. “You don’t have to be a millionaire to support a child. Make sure they have their books, their clothes… You can make a big difference.”

Conclusion

The government of St. Kitts and Nevis is committed to addressing crime and violence through a multi-faceted approach that includes reintegration programmes, youth engagement initiatives, and a public health approach to prevention. By working together, the community can build stronger, safer, and more supportive environments for all citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* What is the government’s approach to addressing crime and violence in St. Kitts and Nevis? The government is taking a multi-pronged approach that includes reintegration programmes, youth engagement initiatives, and a public health approach to prevention.
* What role does the Ministry of Social Development & Gender Affairs play in addressing crime and violence? The Ministry plays a central role in reintegrating incarcerated individuals and strengthening communities through development initiatives.
* How can citizens and organisations support at-risk youth? Citizens and organisations can support at-risk youth by providing financial and community backing, ensuring they have access to education and resources, and offering mentorship and guidance.