Regional Approach Needed to Combat Crime and Violence in the Caribbean

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for a regional approach to tackle the “pernicious scourge of crime and violence” in the Caribbean.

Addressing the Second Regional Symposium on Crime and Violence as a Public Health Issue

Browne made the call while addressing the second Regional Symposium on Crime and Violence as a Public Health Issue in Guyana. He emphasized that “there has been an escalation of crime and violence throughout the region, which requires a holistic collaboration, approach, and strategy, especially but not limited to the regional judiciary and governments.”

Challenges and Solutions

Browne identified several challenges, including the emergence of a lack of civility, the need for intensifying strategies to encourage drug demand reduction, the need to increase public education programs, the reduction in access to firearms, and the proliferation of youth gangs. He suggested that governments create pathways to rehabilitate youth involved in gang activities so that they could become productive members of society.

Mental Health and Crime

Browne also agreed that crime and violence are a health concern requiring a holistic societal approach. He noted that many criminals are suffering from mental health issues and that governments must not dismiss the issue of mental health when speaking on criminal activities. He also highlighted the impact of some music and changes to our cultural norms on the rise in crime and violence across the Caribbean.

Economic and Social Burden of Crime and Violence

Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, highlighted the severe economic and social burden that crime and violence impose on the region. He cited a 2017 International Monetary Fund (IMF) report that found that violent crime is pervasive in the Caribbean, with 40 percent of citizens identifying crime as a top issue, surpassing concerns about poverty and inequality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a regional approach is necessary to combat the scourge of crime and violence in the Caribbean. This requires a holistic collaboration among governments, civil society, and individuals to address the root causes of crime and violence and to provide support to those affected by it.

FAQs

Q: What is the scale of the problem?
A: The problem of crime and violence is pervasive in the Caribbean, with 40 percent of citizens identifying crime as a top issue, surpassing concerns about poverty and inequality.

Q: What are the causes of crime and violence?
A: The causes of crime and violence are complex and multifaceted, but they include the emergence of a lack of civility, the need for intensifying strategies to encourage drug demand reduction, the need to increase public education programs, the reduction in access to firearms, and the proliferation of youth gangs.

Q: What are the consequences of crime and violence?
A: The consequences of crime and violence are severe and far-reaching, including the erosion of trust in institutions, the loss of economic productivity, and the perpetuation of cycles of violence.