Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who also serves as the Minister of National Security, has outlined distinction between National Security and the newly established Citizen Security Secretariat. He also underscored his government’s comprehensive approach to addressing crime, violence, and the broader well-being of citizens in St. Kitts and Nevis during the October edition of The Roundtable press briefing.
Dr. Drew explained that while national security traditionally focuses on law enforcement, citizen security encompasses a wider range of factors that ensure the safety and well-being of individual citizens.
“Citizen security is a designation that means you’re not just dealing with violence and crime, but is a citizen secured,” PM Drew stated.
The broader concept includes access to essential services like water, food, education, healthcare, and a functioning democratic system.
“We are using that terminology to expand the idea that we are looking at the security of individual citizens, not just a national framework,” Dr. Drew said.
The goal is to shift the understanding from a general national approach to one that resonates personally with each citizen, emphasising the government’s commitment to safeguarding their overall security.
The Minister of Security highlighted that the term “citizen security” aligns with international standards and is gaining recognition at the United Nations, where St. Kitts and Nevis collaborates on various initiatives.
While providing an update on national consultations to address crime and violence, Dr. Drew revealed that several community discussions have taken place across the country, including on Nevis, the St. Peter’s Community Centre, and in Newtown. The ongoing consultations aim to mobilise citizens nationwide to actively participate in creating a safer environment. Senior citizens, community organisations, and other stakeholders are being engaged to ensure a comprehensive approach.
“We must have all hands-on deck to deal with the scourge of violence,” Dr. Drew stressed.
The consultations are part of a broader strategy that includes strengthening law enforcement, curbing the transshipment of firearms, and introducing supportive programmes for youth.
As part of the Labour Party administration’s strategy to improve safety and social stability, Dr. Drew noted efforts to bolster law enforcement capabilities by providing resources, training, and legislative support. Recent legal reforms have also focused on equipping the military and police with the tools needed to address crime more effectively.
The prime minister also highlighted community-focused initiatives such as the recently launched football programme for youths and a significant summer programme, which both fall under the national security framework. These programmes aim to provide constructive outlets for young people, reducing the likelihood of their involvement in criminal activities.
Additionally, Dr. Drew pointed out that various organisations, including the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the Christian Council and the Evangelical Association, have joined the national dialogue.
“We’re asking the country to mobilise for citizen security,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen feels secure at all levels.
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