The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recently held a two-day workshop in St. Lucia.
Run on August 14 – 15, the workshop aimed to strengthen human-rights-based and gender-sensitive policing. It was organized in collaboration with the United Nation (UN)’s Resident Coordinator Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.
This initiative is part of the UN’s broader efforts to support the Government of St. Lucia following a development partners meeting in October 2023. The workshop aligns with the UNODC Strategy 2021-2025, focusing on enhancing justice and security in the region.
Anna Giudice, Team Lad of UNODC’s Access to Justice Team, stated that the workshop discussions would inform future UNODC assistance in police reform. “The police are under pressure to perform with demands for safety, security, and justice,” Giudice said, emphasizing UNODC’s role in supporting these efforts.
The workshop aimed to ensure fairness and inclusivity in policing, particularly for marginalized groups. Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Security, Sarah Dupre-Cotter, expressed gratitude for the UNODC’s support, hoping the workshop would lead to viable recommendations for ongoing police reform.
Woman Police Constable Rubinia Joseph, appreciated the approach. She noted that the discussions were timely and relevant to the needs of the Royal St. Lucia Police Force (RSLPF).
The workshop included representatives from various St. Lucian ministries and agencies, with presentations from the UNODC and the Regional Security System.
Source/Photo Credit: caribbeanlife.com
