St. Kitts & Nevis to launch new department focused on citizen security

The government of St. Kitts & Nevis has announced the formation of a new Department of Citizen Security.

This announcement was made during Prime Minister Terrance Drew’s opening remarks at the Stakeholder Engagement on Citizen Security event, which took place on August 23.

According to the government’s information service, the newly created Department of Citizen Security will play a key role in promoting the government’s public health strategy to combat crime and violence in the Federation.

“This strategy focuses on addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of education, and mental health issues, through comprehensive and coordinated efforts,” the government stated.

In his speech, Prime Minister Drew, who also serves as the Minister of National Security, emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering safer communities through prevention and early intervention measures.

“In St. Kitts & Nevis, we are already implementing this public health strategy. We are expanding our educational and vocational training programs to equip young people with the skills they need for success in the workforce. We are investing in mental health services to support individuals dealing with trauma, addiction, or other issues that could lead to violence. Additionally, we are working to strengthen family and community bonds, recognizing that strong, resilient communities are the foundation of a safe and peaceful society,” Drew explained.

To ensure the effective implementation of this strategy, Drew announced that the Department of Citizen Security would oversee the thorough execution of the government’s new approach.

“To this end, we will establish a new government department, to be called the Department of Citizen Security. This department will be responsible for coordinating and ensuring the holistic implementation of this new strategy,” he stated.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the Department of Citizen Security will be crucial in creating a safe and secure environment across St. Kitts & Nevis, contributing to the overall well-being and prosperity of the nation.

By focusing on addressing the underlying causes of crime and violence, the government aims to achieve long-term benefits for society, ultimately improving the quality of life for all citizens.

The Prime Minister affirmed that the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of its people and will continue to take decisive actions to achieve this goal. The establishment of the Department of Citizen Security marks a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to build a peaceful and resilient society.