Basseterre, St. Kitts — The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has welcomed growing international recognition of the Federation’s public health-based approach to crime and violence prevention, following recent engagements between the Citizen Security Task Force and officials of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The engagement took place during the Citizen Security Task Force’s first meeting of 2026, chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, and formed part of a UNDP mission to the Federation to explore how St. Kitts and Nevis’ prevention-focused model could help inform a wider regional response to crime and violence.
Since its establishment in 2024, the Citizen Security Task Force has adopted an all-of-society approach, bringing together law enforcement, educators, youth representatives, civil servants, the business community, and faith leaders to address crime and violence as a public health and social development issue. This coordinated strategy has contributed to significant reductions in crime, including a 76 percent decline in homicides, with the Federation recording single-digit homicide figures for the first time in over two decades.
Prime Minister Drew said the international interest reflects both the effectiveness of the model and the collective effort behind its success.
“What we are seeing today is recognition of a novel and thoughtful approach to citizen security, one that treats crime and violence not simply as a law enforcement issue, but as a public health and social challenge,” Prime Minister Drew said. “This success belongs to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, who partnered with their government, embraced prevention, and took ownership of their safety and security.”
The Prime Minister added that the model’s growing profile presents an opportunity for regional impact.
“We are proud that the progress made here can now help inform solutions across the Caribbean. If our experience can assist other countries in strengthening safety, resilience, and social stability, then that is a contribution we are honoured to make.”
He also commended the Citizen Security Task Force and Secretariat for their leadership and sustained work.
“I want to recognise the dedication of the Task Force, the Secretariat, and all community partners. Your commitment, professionalism, and collaboration have been central to the gains we have achieved.”
Coordinator of the Citizen Security Secretariat, Eartha Carey, said the UNDP engagement reinforces the importance of maintaining momentum in 2026.
“This interest from UNDP affirms that prevention works when communities are engaged and supported,” Carey said. “Our focus this year is on deepening outreach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that the progress we’ve made is sustained for the long term.”
UNDP officials have indicated that St. Kitts and Nevis’ approach could help shape discussions around a proposed Regional Action Plan on crime and violence as a public health issue, as Caribbean leaders continue to prioritise prevention, social investment, and regional cooperation.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis remains committed to strengthening citizen security through evidence-based policy, community engagement, and international collaboration, with the overarching goal of ensuring that all citizens, residents, and visitors feel safe and secure.
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