National Consultation held discussion on root cause of crime and violence in Nevis

The Government of St Kitts and Nevis held a significant discussion on citizen security to the sister island of Nevis on Friday, 4th October, 2024 as a part of the National Consultation on Crime and Violence. This meeting was a part of the 90-day campaign launched by the administration with a vision to tackle the increasing crime and violence in the country.

This event was conducted in collaboration with the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park. Several delegates attended, including Isalean Phillip, Co-Chair of the Taskforce on Citizen Security, Premier of Nevis Mark Brantley, and other members of the NIA Cabinet.

The event also brought together leaders within from religious institutions, political parties, sports associations, social clubs and the private sector in order to address the root causes and potential solutions of crime and violence.

As per the details, Professor of Public Health & Policy at Windsor University, Dr. Jeanita Richardson delivered a presentation on ‘Understanding Violence and Crime as a Public Health Issue’, while the USAID presented a Report on Criminal Dynamics Study in St Kitts and Nevis.

The Prime Minister, Dr. Terrance Drew shared glimpses of the meeting and extended gratitude to the Premier and every other member who participated in this discussion. He appreciated all the attendees for uniting together in the fight against crime, stressing the importance of making citizen security the “top priority.”

“Last Friday, the Citizen Security Task Force, in collaboration with the Nevis Island Administration, held an important discussion as part of the National Consultation on Crime and Violence,” noted PM Terrance Drew.

Notably, this 90-day campaign was launched by the Prime Minister, Dr Terrance Drew with the primary motive of addressing one of the nation’s most pressing issues, crime and violence in St Kitts and Nevis.

This campaign features several activities with a vision to engage the entire society and taking proactive measures in order to address crime and violence, ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens of the nation.

While shedding light on the violence, PM Terrance Drew stated that it cannot be tackled solely through the lens of criminal justice; rather, it must be addressed through comprehensive social programs and proactive policies.

And, for the same, he has urged all the citizens, stakeholders, political and law enforcements to unite together in order to create a safer and healthier society. He focused on promoting unity, resilience, and support within neighbourhoods and families in order to strengthen social bonds and foster a culture of peace among all the citizens.