Crime Awareness Month Launched With Call For Unity & Empowerment

The Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit (CJRPU) officially launched Crime Awareness Month 2025 with a prayer breakfast on Sunday, November 2, at the Bay Street Esplanade. 

The event, held in collaboration with the National Peace Programme as part of the Unit’s 30th anniversary celebrations, brought together government officials, community leaders, students, and members of the public under the theme “From Fear to Citizen Empowerment: Safer Streets, Stronger Communities”.

Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Mark Franklin, commended the ongoing partnership between his Ministry and the CJRPU, noting that collaboration and evidence-based decision-making remain essential to tackling social challenges.

“I am pleased and supportive of the synergy between the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs through the National Peace Programme and the CJRPU,” Mr. Franklin said. “This collaboration is critical to the development of targeted crime prevention programmes that are led by evidence, not anecdotal beliefs.”

He added that the month’s theme reflects his Ministry’s mission to strengthen social control systems within communities.

“When families and youths are equipped with the necessary resources and skills required to be productive citizens, the outcomes will be positive,” he stated, noting that the upcoming Youth Speak-Off Competition and Community Pop-Up Tournament will provide opportunities for young people to express their views and engage in constructive, community-based activities.

Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Attorney General, Curtis Gilkes, praised the CJRPU for its three decades of service to the criminal justice system and its continued commitment to research-driven policy.

“The Office of the Attorney General stands ready to continue supporting crime prevention programmes that target our most vulnerable populations — the youth, elderly, and disabled,” Mr. Gilkes said. “This period in Barbados’ history is marked by great anxiety for our youth, and it is our collective responsibility to prepare them for any eventuality.”

He further emphasised that effective crime prevention requires a united front: “The holistic approach to utilizing research evidence in programme development can only result in a more strategic and targeted response to social problems confronting our youth.”

The event also featured presentations to the Bay Primary School and to community leaders in the Bayville area and surrounding districts, recognising their continued efforts to foster peace and positive change within their communities.

Among those in attendance were Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey and High Court Judge Madame Justice Barbara Cooke-Alleyne. 

The month-long observance will feature a series of community outreach, youth empowerment, and educational activities across the island – all designed to promote peace, civic responsibility, and stronger, safer communities. (PR/GIS)