“We are committed to tackling elements that pose a threat to the people of Jamaica, and we will not relent in the fight against crime in all forms,” said Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, the Hon. Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn.
In a bold step to combat the scourge of human trafficking, the Office of the National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons (ONRTIP) has officially launched Jamaica’s first digital anti-human trafficking course, “Heightening Awareness to Combat Human Trafficking”. The course, developed under the ONRTIP, aims to empower stakeholders and the wider public with critical knowledge to identify and prevent human trafficking.
Speaking at the launch event, Minister Cuthbert-Flynn highlighted the significance of this initiative.
“Jamaica continues to lead in the fight against human trafficking as the first country in the Caribbean to establish the Office of the National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons,” she noted, commending the ONRTIP team, led by Mrs Diahann Gordon Harrison, for their dedication and strategic efforts in addressing trafficking in persons.
The digital course provides free, easily accessible training for first responders, frontline personnel and members of the public.
Participants will gain practical knowledge to identify indicators of trafficking, recognise potential victims and access resources to support survivors. At the end of the course, participants will receive certification, further enabling them to contribute meaningfully to national anti-trafficking efforts.
Acknowledging recent alarming statistics indicating that parents and guardians are often the primary perpetrators of child trafficking in Jamaica, the State Minister stressed the importance of equipping all Jamaicans with the tools to prevent victimisation.
“When we spread awareness by providing relevant information, we can prevent individuals from falling victim to trafficking,” she stated.
This course aligns with the Ministry’s holistic approach through the National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons (NATFATIP) to combat human trafficking, focusing on the three pillars of prevention, protection and prosecution.
The online course expands the reach of trafficking in persons stakeholders, allowing individuals from all communities and demographics to access this critical information with ease.
Human trafficking is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. However, Minister Cuthbert-Flynn noted, “together, we can make a difference by safeguarding our citizens and building a safer, more just society.”
The Ministry of National Security reaffirms its commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting the people of Jamaica.
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