“My administration is unequivocal, human rights of all citizens must be protected. Where there are gaps to ensure all Jamaicans are treated equally under law, we will work to correct those areas and put safeguards in place for the most vulnerable among us. We are committed to do all we can to deal with human rights abuses,” said Prime Minister Holness.

The administration has pledged to examine a raft of policies and legislative initiatives relating to human rights. The government recently ratified the convention on domestic violence. In addition a joint select committee of Parliament will examine the sexual offenses and sexual harassment bills to help safe guard citizens.

“As an administration we reject violence of all forms. As part of addressing issues of human rights, we are taking a comprehensive approach to deal with our crime and violence problem, to safeguard our citizens. This requires the support of all citizens. We want a far more peaceful and loving society” said the Prime Minister.

Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10.

It commemorates the day on which the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

In 1950, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution inviting all States and interested organizations to observe December 10 as International Human Rights Day.