BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has gained significant international recognition for its innovative public health-oriented strategy in combating crime and violence. This acknowledgment follows high-level discussions between the nation’s Citizen Security Task Force and representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The dialogue occurred during the Task Force’s inaugural 2026 meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew. This meeting coincided with a UNDP assessment mission evaluating how the Federation’s prevention-focused framework could serve as a blueprint for broader Caribbean regional initiatives against criminal activities.
Established in 2024, the Citizen Security Task Force has implemented a comprehensive societal approach that integrates law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, youth advocates, government officials, business leaders, and religious organizations. This collaborative model addresses crime fundamentally as both a public health concern and social development challenge rather than purely a law enforcement matter.
The results have been transformative: the Federation has witnessed a remarkable 76% reduction in homicides, achieving single-digit homicide rates for the first time in more than twenty years.
Prime Minister Drew emphasized that international attention validates both the model’s effectiveness and the collective national effort behind its success. “Today’s recognition celebrates a novel and thoughtful methodology toward citizen security,” stated Dr. Drew. “This approach conceptualizes crime and violence not merely through a law enforcement lens but as multidimensional public health and social challenges. The credit belongs to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis who partnered with government, embraced prevention, and took ownership of their safety.”
The Prime Minister further noted that the model’s expanding influence creates opportunities for regional impact. “We take pride that our progress can now help shape solutions throughout the Caribbean. If our experience can assist other nations in enhancing safety, resilience, and social stability, that represents a contribution we are honored to make,” he affirmed.
Eartha Carey, Coordinator of the Citizen Security Secretariat, indicated that UNDP’s engagement reinforces the importance of maintaining momentum throughout 2026. “This international interest confirms that prevention strategies work when communities are actively engaged and properly supported,” Carey observed. “Our current focus involves deepening outreach efforts, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that achieved progress becomes sustainable long-term.”
UNDP officials have suggested that St. Kitts and Nevis’ methodology could significantly influence discussions surrounding a proposed Regional Action Plan addressing crime and violence as public health issues. This development aligns with Caribbean leaders’ continued prioritization of prevention mechanisms, social investment, and regional cooperation frameworks.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis reaffirms its commitment to enhancing citizen security through evidence-based policies, community involvement, and international collaboration, with the ultimate objective of ensuring safety and security for all citizens, residents, and visitors.