Prime Minister Orders Strengthening of Legislative Framework to Combat Violence Against Women
At a meeting of the Cabinet on Monday, May 19, 2025, Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness issued a directive to the responsible Ministers to urgently bring forward legislative amendments aimed at strengthening Jamaica’s framework to combat violence against women and girls.
This directive follows growing national concern over recent incidents of gender-based violence and forms part of the Government’s wider strategy to address violence through prevention, protection, and prosecution.
“I have also directed the relevant Ministers to fast-track all pending legislation or policies that could improve the protection and security of our women and girls. Perpetrators should know that the Government and the society speak with one clear voice against violence,” said Prime Minister Holness. “The safety and dignity of every Jamaican woman and girl are paramount. Our laws must reflect the seriousness of these offences and provide meaningful support and protection for survivors.”
Prime Minister Holness further added, “Your government has been working on a comprehensive approach to tackle violence generally in our society, and we now have the report of the National Commission on the Prevention of Violence, which was chaired by Professor Maureen Samms Vaughn. This report will be reviewed by the Cabinet next and thereafter shared with stakeholders and the wider public.”
The Prime Minister also noted that these efforts form part of the broader whole-of-government approach to improving citizen security and upholding the rights of the most vulnerable.
The Government of Jamaica continues to urge all citizens to play an active role in ending violence by supporting survivors, reporting abuse, and promoting a culture of respect and accountability.