标签： Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin) has announced a two-week delay in the publication of its preliminary 2022 Population and Housing Census results. Originally slated for release on Tuesday, the findings will now be disclosed on October 15, coinciding with the Caribbean Community’s (Caricom) Statistics Day. This regional event underscores the critical role of data in shaping policy and fostering development across the Caribbean. The new release date also heralds the resumption of Statin’s Quarterly Press Briefings, a platform designed to enhance public engagement, transparency, and dialogue with key stakeholders. The census data, eagerly awaited by policymakers and planners, is poised to inform Jamaica’s national planning, resource distribution, and development strategies in the years ahead. As the nation’s principal authority on economic, social, demographic, and environmental data, Statin’s findings are integral to Jamaica’s progress and decision-making processes.

In a recent development in Kingston, Jamaica, Andrew Beacon and Anthony Spence faced further custody as their case regarding the theft of four goats from Hayes in Clarendon proceeded in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday. Beacon is accused of receiving stolen property, while Spence faces charges of unauthorized possession of property. The court highlighted that a crucial statement from the goat owner is still pending, delaying the case’s progress. The incident dates back to August 3, 2025, when police officers in Denham Town noticed a Toyota Fielder speeding suspiciously. Upon pursuit, the vehicle, allegedly driven by Spence, entered Beacon’s premises, where an attempt to close the gate was made. Four goats were discovered inside the car, leading to the arrest of both individuals. In a related decision, Judge Peter Wilson released the Toyota Fielder to its owner under a $100,000 bond, stipulating that the vehicle must remain unaltered and undisposed until the court’s final verdict. Wilson emphasized the necessity of further discussions with the owner regarding the vehicle’s loan details. The accused are scheduled to reappear in court on October 10, 2025.

In a significant step to combat gender-based violence, Spain’s leftist government has approved a groundbreaking bill to classify vicarious violence as a distinct criminal offense. Vicarious violence, defined as harm inflicted on women through their loved ones—often children or close relatives—by a partner or ex-partner, has been a growing concern in the country. Equality Minister Ana Redondo emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, ‘This form of violence is not currently recognized in our legal system. Given the reality, it is crucial to define and incorporate it.’ Since 2013, 65 children in Spain have been murdered in acts of vicarious violence, highlighting the severity of the problem. Beyond extreme cases, such violence can manifest in subtler forms, such as withholding prescribed medication, preventing children from participating in activities they enjoy, or returning them to their mothers in unsanitary conditions. The proposed amendment to the criminal code would classify vicarious violence as a gender-based aggravating circumstance, with penalties ranging from six months to three years in prison. Additionally, abusers would be prohibited from publishing materials that could further traumatize victims. The bill, championed by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s government, which has prioritized feminism and gender equality, now faces the challenge of gaining parliamentary approval despite lacking a majority. Spain has long been a leader in addressing gender-based violence, with its 2005 law introducing specialized courts, free legal aid, emergency housing, and prosecution without requiring a formal complaint from the victim.

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Nowell Lewin Jr, a 23-year-old law student and farmer, is spearheading a transformative movement to address mental health challenges and suicide in Jamaica. Armed with determination and a phone, Lewin founded the Global Integration Society, a youth-led mental health advocacy group dedicated to dismantling the stigma surrounding mental illness in the country.