The Nexus Between Crime and Politics in Caribbean

The nexus of crime and politics in the Caribbean has been the subject of many studies. Discuss the theoretical frameworks that explain this phenomenon and recommend how best the problem can be addressed in the interest of the region’s development.

620050149

University of the West Indies, Mona

05 April 2012
The nexus of crime and politics in the Caribbean has been the subject of many studies. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the theoretical frameworks that explain this phenomenon and recommend how best the problem can be addressed in the interest of the region’s development.

Introduction / Statement of Problem
The propagation of crime in the Caribbean has continued to be an increasing concern as its intensification seems to be constant, like a cancerous growth, continually increasing past levels previously seen. Security practitioners in the Caribbean have found themselves significantly challenged with the formidable task of controlling the escalating levels of crime in the region.
The Commonwealth Caribbean (referring to the English-speaking countries of the Caribbean region) has the highest homicide rate in the world. This starkly contrasts with many other geographic regions of the world and with the Spanish and French speaking Caribbean countries of our region, having surpassed three times the global mean prior to 2002 (see Figure 1).
Figure 1. Homicide rates: The Caribbean in global Context

Murders per 100,000 population

Pages 3- 24

Conclusion
In Jamaica, the crime-political nexus is anchored in a larger subculture and tradition of subverting legal authority. This is by and large the case in many countries of the region and although Jamaica was highlighted in this paper, measures put forward may be applied and worthwhile in the regional effort. Changing these cultures will by no means be an easy task; however, the measures recommended are intended to sketch the approach or direction that shows promise towards a better future for the entire region.
The political leadership in the countries of the Caribbean must recommit to a set of values and a code of conduct consistent with the vision of a safe, peaceful and prosperous Caribbean.

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