Prime Minister Holness says Justice-Led Development is Key to National and Regional Peace and Prosperity
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says justice, security and development are integrally linked to improving the lives of people in the Caribbean region.
Dr Holness says a unified approach is crucial to addressing the complex threat of crime and violence and building resilient communities.
Addressing the high-level dialogue on Law and Criminal Justice, ahead of the start of the 49th meeting of the Head of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Montego Bay yesterday (July 6), Prime Minister Holness outlined the need for stronger regional cooperation, modernized laws and institutions, and improved access to justice.
Dr. Holness highlighted Jamaica’s new Judicial Strategic Plan 2024-2028, which aims to expand legal services, reduce case backlogs, and promote judicial independence and integrity.
“Justice, security, and development are inextricably linked. The strength of one reinforces the success of the others. And the converse is equally true, where justice is delayed, where security is weak, and where trust in institutions is eroded, development is stunted, and opportunity is diminished,” stated Prime Minister Holness.
Dr. Holness added: “We must work together to build a more just, secure, and prosperous region for all.”
The dialogue brought together judicial leaders and judges from across the Caribbean including Jamaica’s Chief Justice Hon. Bryan Sykes, to discuss pressing challenges, including violent crime, transnational organized crime, cybercrime, and prison overcrowding.
Dr. Holness said there is a need for a capable, independent, and adequately resourced judiciary, as well as stronger enforcement, swifter adjudication of serious criminal matters, and more robust rehabilitation and reintegration systems.
“CARICOM faces a complex web of threats, from gang violence, human trafficking, and narcotics, to corruption and cybercrime. These are not isolated or localized challenges. They cross borders, exploit institutional gaps, and demand unified responses. Our response must be functionally coordinated, data-driven, and justice-led,” said Prime Minister Holness.
In leading the dialogue to advance regional cooperation on justice and security issues, Prime Minister Holness also said the region must unite on security and justice.
“We must go further. We need to also consider a regional justice and security cooperation framework with harmonized legislation, integrated data systems, and shared standards. We must sustain political will and greater investment in institutions; and broaden engagement with civil society, youth, and the private sector to build just, resilient communities from the ground up. Let us honour the trust our people have placed in us as we protect their rights, and strengthen the foundations of peace and prosperity across our region,” said Prime Minister Holness.