Government Leads Community Engagement on Citizen Security
Prime Minister Honors Commitment to Whole-of-Society Approach
On August 23, 2024, Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, in his capacity as Minister of National Security, led an engagement with key community stakeholders on citizen security, reinforcing the government’s whole of society approach as part of its comprehensive response to the crime problem from a public health perspective.
Whole-of-Society Approach Key to Combating Crime
According to Prime Minister Dr. Drew, preliminary results of a study sanctioned in 2022 to evaluate and assess crime and gang dynamics in St. Kitts and Nevis point to a pervasive issue in the Federation. The study was carried out by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
"This has the great potential to work," the prime minister said. "So why am I doing a department [of Citizen Security] or if needs be, a ministry? It is because citizen security should always be part of the government’s activity. We must always have all hands on deck for the preservation of peace, tranquillity and harmony in our federation."
New Department of Citizen Security to Lead Government Response
To help accomplish this, a new Department of Citizen Security is being established that will lead the government’s response to addressing the root causes of crime, through a coordinated effort.
National Consultation on Citizen Security
An in-depth analysis of the USAID-led study will be presented at the upcoming National Consultation on Citizen Security, which forms part of the 90-Day Campaign.
90-Day Campaign Objectives
The 90-day campaign will focus on immediate and short-term actions to combat violent crime, particularly gun-related crime. According to the prime minister, the campaign will also include medium and long-term strategies to ensure that the gains made in the coming months are sustained for years to come.
Conclusion
The government’s whole-of-society approach to addressing crime in St. Kitts and Nevis demonstrates its commitment to finding sustainable solutions to the complex issue of crime and violence in the Federation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the whole-of-society approach to addressing crime?
A: The whole-of-society approach is a comprehensive, scientific approach that involves all members of society in addressing crime.
Q: What is the purpose of the National Consultation on Citizen Security?
A: The National Consultation on Citizen Security aims to present an in-depth analysis of the USAID-led study and discuss the government’s comprehensive response to addressing crime in the Federation.
Q: What are the objectives of the 90-Day Campaign?
A: The 90-Day Campaign will focus on immediate and short-term actions to combat violent crime, particularly gun-related crime, as well as medium and long-term strategies to ensure sustainability.