Page 108 - Demo

Human trafficking in Jamaica
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Benefits of the research
The 2015 study has filled information gaps, identified new and emerging trends in TIP, highlighted gaps in current legislation and information sources, and assessed institutional capacity to identify and address the problem. Research also resulted in the establishment of a TIP database, a TIP Data-sharing Protocol to broaden the scope of agencies involved in data sharing, as well as a TIP brochure to promote the use of the database
The studies provide evidence of Government of Jamaica’s actions to address the crime of human trafficking and build the capacity to secure more convictions. The 2015 research will reduce the risk of Jamaica’s being placed on the US State Department’s Tier Three TIP Watch list, which would increase the risk of suspension of all non-humanitarian aid to Jamaica. Research on emerging TIP trends also helps to guide the development of a new strategic plan on TIP for Jamaica, as well as guide the programmes of NATFATIP’s sub-committees on Prevention, Protection, Prosecution and Partnerships. The results have highlighted new vulnerable groups, new forms of human trafficking, and global and regional trends and risks. It has expanded the range of institutions that needs to be involved in the national anti-trafficking movement.
Impact of the research
Action-research studies involving various sectors, at-risk groups and institutions, have helped to build awareness among a wider range of government ministries’ departments and agencies (MDAs): permanent secretaries, private sector, civil society, and the media. All have been encouraged to raise awareness of TIP, and share relevant information to support interventions to eliminate TIP.
Direct application
The TIP Database includes literature, research reports, statistics, and will capture data on victims and perpetrators. The data will support public education, advocacy, research and information on recent trends, literature, statistics and the like.
The Database on Human Trafficking will centralise data collection and analysis on this crime, improve the country’s capacity to compile reports on ratified international conventions, and will support evidence-based policy making. This includes the development of a national policy on anti-trafficking for Jamaica.
New partnerships
New partnerships arising from this study include those with the Ministry of Justice, several Ministries’ departments and agencies, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution, civil society groups (Panos Caribbean, for example) faith-based organisations involved in anti-trafficking, including the Hope United Church
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Recognising Outstanding Researchers 2016