United Nations in Jamaica

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. Kindly note that the data visualizations show an aggregate of the Caribbean. To view the disaggregated data per country, please click on the name of the country or territory you wish to explore.

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28 January 2026

United Nations Jamaica: Hurricane Melissa Response

The United Nations Country Team in Jamaica has championed the 'Delivering as One' approach to bolster life-saving humanitarian efforts following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa in late 2025. This unified response is designed to bridge the gap between immediate relief and long-term recovery, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive targeted, data-driven support during this national emergency.

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Publication

28 April 2025

UN Jamaica MCO Annual Results Report 2024

The UN Jamaica MultiCountry Office (MCO) Annual Results Report 2024 is a yearly document that summarizes the work, achievements, and impact of the United Nations in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands and Turks & Caicos Islands over the past year. It highlights progress made toward national priorities, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and outlines how UN agencies have collaborated with governments, civil society, and other partners. In the face of a multiplicity of challenges, the UNCT responded with agility, innovation, and a strengthened spirit of partnership.In the 2024 report, we utilize several engagement opportunities, including AI-powered Augmented Reality. We also spotlight select murals from Bermuda, The Bahamas, and Jamaica—each a bold expression of the islands’ warmth, unity, and resilient spirit. These works serve not only as windows into the cultural soul of the region but also as dynamic platforms for messages of justice, climate action, and sustainable progress. Like the free, artistic sweep of a paintbrush, each mural captures fleeting moments of passion and possibility—a reminder that art is both activism and a celebration of life in the Caribbean.Dynamic brushstrokes weave throughout these pages, reflecting the region’s energy and creativity—an unrestrained celebration of community and resilience. Discover more about these powerful works and the brilliant artists behind them by scanning the QR code."As we present the United Nations Jamaica MCO Annual Results Report for 2024, am filled with a sense of pride and profound purpose. This report reflects the collective dedication and unwavering commitment of the entire UN Country Team (UNCT) to supporting true sustainable development, leaving no one behind." -Mr. Dennis Zulu, UN Resident Coordinator

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“We Dance Between Land and Sea” (2022) by Taj Francis, is part of a project in The Bahamas that tackles the decline of mangrove environments—vital habitats and natural shoreline protectors—by artfully blending mangrove imagery with the festive spirit of Jonkanoo Festival costumes.

Story

08 March 2026

Powering progress through equality | Kyana Bowen and Maxsalia Salmon (Published in Jamaica Gleaner)

The devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in 2025, which inflicted an estimated US$12 billion in damages, underscores the urgent need for robust national resilience. In this context, the private sector’s role in championing equality and fostering sustainable development is not merely a moral imperative but a strategic business necessity, fundamental to strengthening the nation’s capacity to withstand future shocks.Empirical evidence consistently demonstrates a compelling link between gender equality and economic prosperity. Economies that actively close gender gaps experience accelerated growth, enhanced innovation, and greater resilience against economic and environmental volatility. Investing in women through equitable renumeration, leadership pathways, inclusive workplaces, and gender-responsive policies acts as a powerful economic multiplier. This approach unlocks untapped potential, strengthens productivity, and expands market opportunities, creating a virtuous cycle of sustainable development.Across Jamaica, a growing number of businesses are already exemplifying this leadership. These enterprises are increasingly integrating their core strategies with national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They recognise that enduring value creation is inextricably linked to positive social and environmental impact.Companies such as One-on-One Educational Services Limited, CorpCare, PwC Jamaica and Esirom Limited are among those that have formally committed to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact Network Caribbean. This commitment translates into embedding human rights, fair labour standards, environmental stewardship, and anti-corruption measures into their daily operations. The actions establish practical benchmarks for responsible and competitive business conduct.OPERATIONAL DECISIONSThis often begins with deliberate operational decisions that cultivate an inclusive workplace culture. For instance, companies are adopting flexible work arrangements, performance-based incentives, and equitable promotion opportunities, alongside comprehensive parental leave policies. These measures enable employees to effectively balance professional contributions with personal responsibilities, fostering an environment where individual diversity is recognised and supported. This approach signifies a broader evolution within Jamaica’s business community, integrating inclusion into foundational systems.Further reinforcing this commitment is the growing adoption of the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), a collaborative initiative by UN Women and the UN Global Compact. Over 25 Jamaican companies have embraced the WEPs, utilising its structured framework to advance gender equality across their workplaces, marketplaces, and communities. This includes fair treatment for women and men, gender-responsive recruitment and promotion policies, support for education and professional development, and fostering supply-chain practices that empower women. These actions are foundational steps toward building a more resilient, equitable, and future-ready Jamaican economy.Leadership at the governance level is equally paramount. The representation of women, particularly at the highest echelons of executive and board leadership, is crucial for organisational performance and long-term stability. While women are well-represented in management roles across Jamaica and the Caribbean, this progress has not consistently translated to the most senior leadership positions. Bridging this gap directly correlates with enhanced organisational performance. Gender-inclusive governance bolsters accountability, enriches strategic insights, and deepens stakeholder trust all foundational pillars of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks. Businesses that intentionally align leadership representation with their sustainability agendas are better positioned to drive sustained profitability and navigate economic and social disruptions.DISPARITIESDespite encouraging advancements, significant disparities persist, demanding focused attention. Women, especially those engaged in nascent sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and other climate-sensitive industries, continue to encounter substantial structural barriers. These include restricted access to finance, land, and digital tools, alongside underrepresentation in technical training, STEM fields, and senior leadership. Such disparities not only restrict individual opportunity but also impede national economic growth. As a country on the frontline of climate change, Jamaica’s development pathway must strategically harness women’s full participation and leadership. Climate-smart investments, inclusive green jobs, and resilient supply chains will only realise their full potential when women are fully integrated as innovators, skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers.The international community’s Pact for the Future, adopted by UN member states in 2024, explicitly positions the private sector as a co-architect of sustainable development. It calls on businesses to align investments with human rights, ambitious climate action, inclusive economic growth, and intergenerational equity. For Jamaican businesses, this is far more than a global policy statement; it shapes investor expectations, international competitiveness, and long-term risk management. Those who lead in this transition will not only bolster national development but also strategically position themselves in an evolving global marketplace.The vision for Jamaica is clear: a nation where businesses flourish by contributing meaningfully to equality, sustainability, and shared prosperity; where women and girls can realize their full potential unhindered by structural barriers; and where the private sector is recognized as a dynamic force for national progress. This is not an aspiration; it is an economic necessity.As we mark International Women’s Day, celebrating 115 years of collective advocacy and progress, one truth endures: transformative change is contingent upon intentional leadership, robust partnerships, and sustained action. The future for women, businesses, and Jamaica hinges entirely on today’s decisions. For Jamaica’s business leaders, the time for decisive action is now.Companies can accelerate progress by committing to pay transparency and gender-responsive budgeting; increasing women’s participation and leadership in climate-related and STEM sectors; expanding procurement opportunities for women-led businesses; investing in family-friendly policies and safe, flexible workplaces; and embedding gender equality and climate resilience into core business strategies and risk management frameworks. By embracing gender equality not as an option but as the cornerstone of our collective future, Jamaica’s private sector can help power a more resilient, competitive, and inclusive nation. Kyana Bowen is the executive director of the UN Global Compact Network Caribbean. Maxsalia Salmon is partnerships and development finance officer of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. Send feedback to jamaica.rco@un.org

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27 February 2026

IOM Jamaica Workshop Increases Gender Sensitivity for more Inclusive Migration Governance

the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Jamaica has taken a bold step to ensure that migration policies and frontline services truly reflect the needs and realities of all migrants.In January and February 2026, IOM Jamaica delivered four hands-on workshops across St. Ann, Manchester, Kingston, and St. Andrew, training thirty-three representatives from government ministries, child protection agencies, and civil society organizations. These sessions focused on practical ways to identify and address gender bias, strengthen referral pathways, and develop action plans that respond to the unique challenges faced by migrants of different genders.Participants learned that migration journeys can be especially complex for women and girls, who may face heightened risks of exploitation or barriers to accessing services. Men and boys, too, encounter distinct challenges—such as stigma or limited support networks. Gender-diverse migrants often struggle with discrimination and lack of tailored assistance. Through interactive modules and real-world scenarios, attendees gained tools to recognize vulnerability, tailor support, and foster safer, more inclusive environments for all.Reflecting on the initiative, Natasha Greaves, IOM Jamaica’s Head of Office (a.i.), emphasized the human impact: “This capacity-building effort is an investment in the people and systems shaping Jamaica’s migration response every day. It supports the implementation of the National Migration and Development Policy and strengthens partnerships with ministries, agencies, and community actors. Looking ahead, IOM Jamaica will continue expanding technical support to ensure that important gender considerations are taken into account, influencing how migration governance is designed and delivered across the country.”Participants praised the workshops for equipping them to better identify vulnerable groups and improve coordination. The collaborative approach fostered a sense of shared responsibility, ensuring that migrants and their families receive support that respects their dignity and responds to their specific needs.This initiative is part of IOM Jamaica’s ongoing commitment to strengthening migration governance at both national and local levels. By centering gender equality and inclusive development, IOM and its partners are helping to build a Jamaica where every migrant, regardless of gender, can access opportunities, protection, and support.

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15 February 2026

Dennis Zulu | Bridge to inclusion: Rebuilding Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa ((Published in Jamaica Gleaner)

inclusive nation. It is the anniversary of the Disabilities Act coming into effect in 2022, a legislative promise designed to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy the same rights and opportunities as every other citizen.As we celebrate this fourth anniversary in 2026, we do so while navigating the recovery from Hurricane Melissa. While the storm caused significant damage, it has also presented Jamaica with a critical opportunity: the chance to rebuild a nation that is more resilient, more accessible, and truly inclusive of everyone.UNSEEN IMPACT OF MELISSAHurricane Melissa unleashed widespread destruction, tearing through homes and vital facilities, and creating a humanitarian challenge that touched every sector. Beyond the immediate physical damage, the storm jeopardized food security for thousands and compromised access to clean water and sanitation.Yet, Hurricane Melissa’s impact was not felt equally. For persons with disabilities, the storm laid bare deep-seated vulnerabilities. Communication gaps in the alert process left many uninformed, and designated shelters often remained physically inaccessible. This crisis was further compounded by infrastructure that was already “inaccessible by design,” highlighting the urgent need to address systemic barriers and prioritize inclusive reconstruction during the recovery process.INCLUSIVE RECOVERYIn the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, the United Nations system in Jamaica activated a multi-sectoral response, working hand-in-hand with the Government and affected communities. This included providing support across critical sectors, including water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health, shelter, food security, protection, education, logistics, and telecommunications, all underpinned by robust coordination efforts.Crucially, UN agencies, working closely alongside the Government, initiated targeted interventions to support persons with disabilities:Counting every person: All projects funded by the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) now require data that identifies the specific impacts of the hurricane on persons with disabilities. This ensures assistance is both targeted and effective, leaving no one behind.Digital lifelines: UNICEF and the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) are strengthening social protection through a digital voucher mechanism within the “I Am Able: My JCPD” mobile app. This provides rapid, secure assistance to 1,500 children with disabilities and their families, offering accessible communication on nutrition and safety, and empowering families with vital information.Dedicated health support: The WHO/PAHO CERF project specifically focuses on 6,633 persons with disabilities as direct beneficiaries. This initiative includes dedicated activities to improve and support access to essential health services for vulnerable populations across Jamaica.BUILDING BACK BETTERWhile these targeted measures have been vital, Hurricane Melissa has served as a powerful reminder that our resilience as a nation is only as strong as our level of accessibility. As we move from immediate relief to long-term reconstruction, we must embrace universal design – the practice of creating environments that are usable by all people from the start.The reconstruction of schools, clinics, and community centres is not merely a task of replacement. It is a strategic opportunity to align our national infrastructure with the National Building Code and the requirements of the Disabilities Act. By integrating these standards now, we avoid the high costs of structural adjustments later and ensure our public spaces are welcoming to all by design, rather than by afterthought.Let us recognise that accessibility is a universal benefit that extends far beyond a single demographic. A ramp isn’t just for a wheelchair user; it’s for the grandmother visiting the clinic, the parent with a stroller, and the worker recovering from an injury. Building for the most vulnerable actually means building better for everyone, transforming our post-disaster recovery into a long-term investment in Jamaica’s collective social and economic resilience.INCLUSIVE JAMAICAIn November 2025, the United Nations, alongside the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the JCPD, signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to solidify our collective commitment to enhancing disability inclusion across Jamaica. This partnership promotes the adoption of universal design principles and advocates for the creation of accessible public and private spaces nationwide. While this collaboration arrived at a critical time for recovery, the UN and the Government cannot build back better alone. This is a national endeavour that requires every Jamaican to play their part.To the private sector: As you rebuild offices and storefronts, see accessibility as a strategic market expansion rather than a burden. An accessible business welcomes a broader customer base and fosters a more diverse, resilient workforce. Ensure your rebuilding efforts meet or exceed the standards set by the National Building Code and the Disabilities Act.To the Government: We urge the continued implementation of recovery efforts that are inclusive of persons with disabilities. Every rebuilt school, hospital, and community structure must serve as a model of accessibility, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the Disabilities Act.To the public: Inclusion is a shared responsibility. We call on every Jamaican to advocate for the removal of barriers in their communities and to support an environment where every citizen is empowered to participate fully and equally. Let us embody the spirit of “Out of Many, One People” in our actions.As we rebuild from the ruins of Hurricane Melissa, let us not just replace what was lost. Let us build the Jamaica we have always promised ourselves – one where “Out of Many, One People” means everyone. Let us honour the spirit of the Disabilities Act by ensuring that the Jamaica we rebuild is one where every person can pursue their goals and contribute to their community as equal and empowered citizens leaving no one behind. Dennis Zulu is the United Nations resident coordinator in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Bermuda, The Cayman Islands and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com

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10 November 2025

Nearly a third of Jamaica’s annual wealth wiped out by Hurricane Melissa

Kishan Khoday, Resident Representative for the UN Development Programme (UNDP), told journalists at UN Headquarters in New York via video conference that initial estimates of the damage added up to 30 per cent of Gross Domestic Product: “a figure that’s expected to rise.” UNDP estimates that nearly five million metric tonnes of debris have been generated across western Jamaica following the devastating category 5 storm last week – equivalent to roughly 500,000 standard truckloads.Death toll and destructionIn addition, authorities have confirmed 32 deaths, while nearly 36,000 people urgently require food assistance, and more than 100,000 housing structures have been affected, said UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq.At least 30 communities are still cut off while electricity, telecommunications and even radio signals remain severely disrupted in some parishes.Mr. Khoday told the story of one man he’d met called Keith, from New Hope in western Jamaica, who had sought shelter in a nearby structure as Melissa made landfall, kneeling behind plywood for hours as the storm raged.When he emerged, he found his home, livelihood, and parts of his community in ruins. His experience underscores the harsh realities of the climate emergency, the top UNDP official said – but was also a testament to Jamaicans' resilience as they work toward recovery and rebuilding.UN mobilises aidMore than 60 different organisations have joined the 16-member UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination team – part of the UN aid coordination office OCHA – as the aid operation continues under the direction of Jamaican authorities.To support response and recovery efforts, UNDP has allocated an initial $400,000 to assist with basic assessment work and provide early support to national partners.Meanwhile, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) is airlifting food from Barbados to support more than 6,000 households for up to a week, the UN says. Communities still cut offIn Cuba – while also suffered devastation along with Haiti due to the hurricane – around 120,000 people remain in shelters due to ongoing flooding, overflowing rivers, and landslides.The UN reports that 29 communities remain isolated with extensive damage to housing, health facilities, and educational centres.More than 45,0000 housing structures, nearly 500 health facilities and over 1,500 educational centres have also sustained damage, Mr. Haq said.

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03 July 2025

Jamaica’s Big Bet: Turning Vulnerability into a Development Superpower

As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Jamaica faces climate shocks, high debt, and limited access to affordable finance. But instead of being constrained by these challenges, the country is flipping the script: turning risk into leverage, and constraints into catalysts for innovation. With support from the UN Country Team, under the leadership of Resident Coordinator Dennis Zulu, Jamaica is forging bold, multi-sector partnerships to unlock new capital and drive inclusive growth. From blended finance—where public money helps attract private investors—to green bonds that raise money for environmental projects, and impact investing—where doing good and making a profit go hand in hand—Jamaica is showing that big goals need bold partnerships. “Blended finance, green bonds, impact investment, resilient and inclusive social protection systems, digitizing education — we, the UN in Jamaica, are on it,” says Mr. Zulu. “Big goals need big partnerships.” Finance that fits the reality Jamaica’s story reflects a wider truth: traditional development finance doesn’t work for SIDS. It’s often too expensive, too slow, and too rigid to reflect their climate vulnerability or structural disadvantages. That’s why Jamaica is working with the UN to pioneer new financial approaches tailored to its context. One breakthrough came through a joint initiative between the World Food Programme and Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security, which used digital payments to deliver emergency cash to nearly 18,000 previously unreached people. More than just a social protection intervention, it proved the power of digital inclusion in expanding access to finance—and laid the groundwork for broader financial reforms. Jamaica’s momentum is also inspiring neighbors. In the Bahamas, the Building Back Equal Through Innovative Gender Equitable Finance initiative helped dismantle barriers for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. With just $68,000 in seed funding, the program unlocked over $1 million in additional financing and shifted how financial institutions assess risk—prompting them to back marginalized entrepreneurs for the first time. Connecting the dots: The RC’s role Behind the scenes, Resident Coordinator Dennis Zulu plays a pivotal role—bringing together government, the private sector, academia, and international partners to turn shared goals into coordinated action. “Our job is to connect the dots — government, private sector, and international institutions — to make sustainable solutions real,” says Zulu. From convening the UN Jamaica Partnership Forum—which sparked new private-sector partnerships for youth employment—to guiding policy shifts that align public and private financing with national priorities, Zulu exemplifies the unique value of the UN RC system: acting as a strategic broker, not just a neutral coordinator. From local action to global momentum As the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) concludes, Jamaica’s experience offers a powerful lesson: development finance must be reimagined to reflect vulnerability, unleash private capital, and support national leadership. In 2024, the Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) teamed up to assess Jamaica’s access to climate finance. The findings were telling: eligibility criteria often penalized the country for not being poor “enough,” while adaptation funds were diverted to disaster recovery. The result? Structural injustice in how climate resilience is funded. The analysis informed Jamaica’s advocacy with international partners—pushing for loss and damage finance, better access to concessional loans, and a global system that reflects the true cost of climate risk. These calls echo the ambition of the UN’s Pact for the Future: to reshape the financial system so it works for countries like Jamaica, not around them. What FfD4 must deliver FfD4 in Seville is more than a global meeting—it’s a test of global will. For Jamaica and other SIDS, the stakes are clear: Affordable finance for resilience and sustainable development.Reforms to concessional lending that prioritize vulnerability over GDP metrics.Scaled-up domestic resource mobilization to empower countries to invest in their own futures.De-risking strategies that bring in private investors and shift capital to where it’s needed most. The Pact for the Future makes clear: private capital isn’t just a supplement to aid—it must become a core driver of sustainable development. Jamaica is already proving this. What’s needed now is a global framework that accelerates its efforts. “Jamaica has the momentum,” says Zulu. “Together, we’re powering forward for the Sustainable Development Goals.” Why it matters Jamaica’s story is more than a local success—it’s a case study in what’s possible when national ambition meets global partnership. It shows that vulnerability can become negotiating power, that small states can lead on innovation, and that with the right partners, bold financing models are not just desirable—they’re doable. FfD4 is the world’s chance to catch up. For more information about the UN's work in Jamaica visit jamaica.un.org.

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Press Release

08 March 2026

The Secretary-General - International Women's Day OP-ED (2026)

But I have also watched many solutions take root, and they shared one common denominator: women.
As the world marks International Women’s Day, it is time to recognize that gender inequality is the greatest human rights challenge of our time – and advancing equality is one of the strongest drivers of sustainable development and peace.
Here are eight actions drawn from my own experience, and inspired by the work of the UN system and civil society movements across the globe, to advance women’s rights and deliver results.
1. Fix the Power Gap
Gender equality is a question of power. But male-dominated institutions still shape our world. A rising tide of authoritarianism is deepening these inequalities, rolling back hard-won protections – from fair work practices to reproductive rights – and entrenching racial and gender biases that hold women back. Gender equality lifts societies. When power is shared, freedom expands.
2. Make Parity a Priority
Women are grossly under-represented in governments and boardrooms across the globe. At the United Nations, we set out to make gender parity a priority, starting with senior leadership. We did this by widening the search for qualified candidates, not by lowering standards. The UN is stronger for it, with an enhanced workplace culture and more inclusive decision-making. The lesson is clear. When institutions choose equality, results follow. 3. Bet on the Highest-Return Investment
Investment in women delivers outsized returns. Every dollar spent on girls’ education yields nearly triple the gains, while maternal health and family planning generate more than eightfold benefits. Policies that support families such as child care and elder care strengthen communities and unlock even more growth. Taken together, such steps lay the foundation for closing gender gaps – which can boost national income by as much as 20%.
4. Make Room at the Peace Table
Peace agreements are more durable when women take part in negotiating and implementing them. Yet in too many conflicts – including Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan – women have been largely shut out of the room, even though they carry the heaviest burdens of war. At a time of rising instability, inclusion is not symbolic – it is a shortcut to stabilize our fractured world.
5. End Legal Discrimination
Worldwide, women hold only 64 per cent of the legal rights enjoyed by men. In too many places, they cannot own property, work freely, or seek a divorce. Even where protections exist, women face higher barriers to access legal aid or the courts. Every country must commit to dismantling discriminatory laws, and to enforcing rights in practice.
6. Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence – and Zero Excuses
Violence against women is a global emergency, rooted in inequality and sustained by silence. Every woman and girl has the right to live free from fear. Yet gender-based violence – including sexual exploitation and abuse – remains a horrific breach of trust and humanity. We must confront it everywhere, with zero tolerance, full accountability, and unwavering support for survivors.
7. Code Out Bias
With women comprising just one in four tech workers, bias is being hardwired into the systems that shape daily lives. Meanwhile, misogyny is exploding online. Technology companies and governments must act together to build safe, inclusive digital spaces – and the world must do more to remove barriers for girls in science and technology.
8. Put Gender in the Climate Plan
Climate change is sexist. Women often eat last in food crises and endure greater danger in emergencies. Girls face higher risks of child marriage when livelihoods collapse. But women are also leading climate solutions – advancing green legislation, powering global movements, and driving change on the ground. A liveable planet demands gender-responsive climate policies, including equal access to green jobs, better protection in emergencies, and full participation in environmental decision-making.
Across the globe, I have seen these eight solutions in action – in war zones and recovery efforts, parliaments and classrooms, organizations and communities.
If leaders get serious about gender equality and commit to them now, we will change the world – for women and girls, and for us all.
***

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Press Release

05 March 2026

How Jamaicans’ Perceptions of Sustainable Development Influence Behaviours and Support Progress Toward the SDGs

Sustainable development remains essential to Jamaica’s long-term resilience as a Small Island Developing State, especially in light of recent climate shocks such as Hurricane Melissa (2025), which underscored the island’s environmental, economic, and social vulnerabilities. While Jamaica has embraced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Vision 2030, progress relies heavily on how citizens understand sustainability and the extent to which perceptions translate into meaningful behavioural change.This JEP Discussion highlights that while Jamaicans are generally aware of environmental issues, understanding of sustainable development remains uneven. Many citizens equate sustainability solely with environmental protection, with limited recognition of its economic and social dimensions. The National Environment and Planning Agency’s (NEPA) Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Behaviour (KAPB) survey shows that although Jamaicans identify challenges like improper waste disposal, fewer connect these issues to public health, tourism, climate resilience, or long-term economic well-being.The report reveals that local culture and community identity provide powerful entry points for strengthening public engagement. From yam festivals in Trelawny to Maroon traditions of land stewardship, cultural practices continue to reinforce public awareness of environmental and community-based values. Grassroots initiatives, including school gardening programmes and community clean-ups, have also been effective in building sustainable habits among youth and families.Despite positive shifts, barriers persist. High costs limit access to renewable technologies; weak enforcement undermines environmental protection; and externally designed programmes often fail to reflect community realities. Small eco-tourism operators, particularly along the North Coast, demonstrate strong environmental commitment but face high upfront costs, limited domestic demand, and inadequate incentives. JEP Panellists provided key insights for strengthening Jamaica’s sustainable development efforts.Dr. Nadine McCloud underscored that perceptions strongly influence national progress: when sustainable development is presented in familiar, locally relevant terms, acceptance and behavioural change increase. She emphasised the importance of education, local leadership, and early visible wins that build public trust and momentum.UN Senior Economist Dr. Stuart Davies noted that a whole-of-society approach, integrating behavioural strategies, cultural identity, and coordinated government action, is essential to achieving the SDGs. Aligning sustainability messaging with values of fairness, justice, and cultural pride can help transform awareness into long-term action.Overall, the JEP Panellists concluded that Jamaica has made progress in improving awareness and certain sustainable behaviours. However, deeper advancement requires bridging the gap between perception and practice through stronger education, community participation, institutional support, and policy coherence.Responding to the discussion, Mr. Dennis Zulu, United Nations Resident Coordinator, stressed that strengthening public understanding of sustainable development is essential to achieving the SDGs. “When sustainability is communicated in ways that reflect people’s daily realities, cultural identity, and community priorities, behaviour change follows. Jamaicans are already showing leadership through local initiatives, but accelerating progress requires stronger education, inclusive partnerships, and consistent institutional support to ensure that sustainability becomes a lived reality for all,” Zulu said.The Jamaican Economy Panel is part of a partnership between the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) and the Department of Economics at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona. The JEP brings together economic, public-sector experts and development practitioners to address monthly socio-economic questions. These questions help to highlight relevant economic issues and the collective expertise of the panellists.For more information on the Jamaican Economy Panel and for the results of this JEP discussion, visit the UN Jamaica website at www.jamaica.un.org. For further information, please contact:United Nations: Dr. Stuart Davies, Senior Economist. Email: stuart.davies@un.orgMs. Soyeon Chae, Gender and Climate Economics Assistant. Email: soyeon.chae@un.org Department of Economics, University of the West Indies: Dr. Nadine McCloud, Senior Lecture. Email : nadine.mccloud02@uwimona.edu.jm

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Press Release

27 October 2025

United Nations Stands in Solidarity with Jamaica Amidst the Impacts of Hurricane Melissa

The hurricane has brought with it devastating winds, life-threatening storm surges, and torrential rainfall, posing a significant threat to lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure across the island.In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the United Nations system in Jamaica, under the leadership of Resident Coordinator Mr. Dennis Zulu, is working in close coordination with the Government of Jamaica and national emergency response agencies to bolster preparedness and response efforts.The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is actively supporting regional coordination efforts and has deployed staff to Jamaica to strengthen emergency preparedness and facilitate effective response operations.Key UN agencies are mobilizing critical support as follows:World Food Programme (WFP) is providing essential logistics support, including the deployment of generators to ensure continuity of critical services.United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has pre-positioned water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) supplies, along with materials to support child protection and psychosocial care.Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is reinforcing national health emergency operations and ensuring readiness of medical facilities.International Organization for Migration (IOM) is preparing shelter support for displaced populations and vulnerable communities.United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UN Women and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) are mobilizing resources for early recovery, food security, and protection of women, girls, and other at-risk groups.The UN remains committed to supporting the Government of Jamaica in addressing immediate humanitarian needs, including emergency shelter, access to clean water, hygiene supplies, and logistical support to reach affected and isolated communities. The United Nations reiterates its unwavering commitment to the people of Jamaica during this challenging time and will continue to work hand-in-hand with national authorities and partners to ensure a coordinated and effective response. For media inquiries, please contact:
Maxsalia Salmon
Partnership and Development Finance Officer
Email address: maxsalia.salmon@un.orgCUG:876-509-0074

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Press Release

24 October 2025

The Bahamas Marks United Nations Day 2025: “UN80: Shaping an Inclusive and Resilient Bahamas Together."

NASSAU, The Bahamas. 24th October, 2025 — On Friday, 24th October, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs joined the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in celebration of United Nations Day 2025, under the theme “UN80: Shaping an Inclusive and Resilient Bahamas Together.” To commemorate the occasion, the Ministry actively participated in a townhall forum hosted by the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, at the Performing Arts Centre, at the University of The Bahamas. The event served as a platform to bring together representatives of the Government, the United Nations system, civil society, students and youth. It provided an opportunity to reflect oneighty years of the United Nations’ contribution to global peace, security, and development, and to explore how multilateral cooperation continues to shape a more inclusive and resilient Bahamas.The town hall commenced with opening remarks delivered by Mr. Dennis Zulu, UN Resident Coordinator, and Dr. Maria Oriakhi, Chief Academic Officer and Vice President of UB Academic Affairs, setting a collaborative tone for the day. The discussions were moderated by Ms. Aneesah Abdullah, United Nations Country Coordination Officer for The Bahamas who also provided key insights. Director General Ali (second from right) giving remarks at the town hallA highlight of the programme was the dynamic panel discussion featuring distinguished speakers. Representing the Government of The Bahamas, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jerusa Ali, and Deputy Director General, Head of Multilateral and Political Bureau, Gian Dean delivered compelling remarks on the topic: “The Bahamas and Multilateralism: Why the UN Still Matters”, further underscoring the Ministry’s active engagement in multilateral affairs. The esteemed panel also included Ms. Sumayyah Cargill, Acting Deputy Managing Director of The Bahamas Development Bank; Ms. Keisha Ellis, Executive Director of Hands for Hunger, representing the voice of civil society; Ms. Michelle Brathwaite, Regional Director for OHCHR/CARICOM; and Mr. Fredtano Swann, a School of Social & Educational School Senator and Student Government Association representative, offering a valuable youth perspective.Discussions focused on the importance of the United Nations, the role of multilateralism in advancing The Bahamas’ diplomacy and development priorities, and the value of partnership in addressing national and global challenges such as climate resilience, sustainable development, and social inclusion.The townhall also encouraged interactive dialogue between panelists and attendees through a moderated question-and-answer segment as well as an engaging trivia exercise, fostering deeper engagement and understanding.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ remains committed to robust civil outreach. This dedication is exemplified by the appointment of High Commissioner Philip Smith, who has been assigned as a thematic ambassador with responsibility for civil social outreach. High Commissioner Smith’s role is critical to ensure that the diverse voices and priorities of Bahamian communities are effectively integrated into the nation’s foreign policy and multilateral engagements, strengthening the link between national development and international cooperation.As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, the event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of multilateral efforts and of The Bahamas’ continued commitment to promoting peace, and progress at home and abroad.Ambassador Ali took a moment to recognise the legacy of the Honourable Vaugh Peterson Miller, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources. Minister Miller gave strong political support for two agreements that The Bahamas is now party to: The Regional Agreement on Access to Information, Public Participation and Justice in Environmental Matters in Latin America and the Caribbean “Escazú Agreement” and The Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction “BBNJ Agreement”. As we mourn him, Ambassador Ali said, let us remember his passion for the environment and commitment to multilateralism.

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Press Release

01 September 2025

Joint Non-Discrimination Statement of the UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes of the United Nations System in The Bahamas on Employment of Persons with Disabilities

One of the key indicators of the UNDIS framework is the call for the UNCTs to commit explicitly towards Non-discrimination of Persons with Disabilities in employment. Within this context, the UNCT has adopted a non-discrimination employment statement inclusive of persons with disabilities which will be applied in all UN local vacancies and other recruitment calls with foundations on the Universal Values of the Human Rights-Based Approach and Leave No One Behind.The Statement:The United Nations system in The Bahamas is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment free from all forms of employment discrimination, rooted in fairness, equity, and mutual respect. We attract, recruit, retain, and promote individuals based on job-related qualifications and abilities. The UN therefore encourages and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals regardless of their disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, race, religious affiliation, or cultural and ethnic background. We are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace to support the full participation and success of persons with disabilities. We commit to monitoring and evaluating the implementation of inclusive policies to ensure their effectiveness.This statement reflects our unwavering dedication to promoting inclusivity, upholding human rights, and fostering an equitable work environment for all individuals. The beneficiaries of this statement will be persons with disabilities seeking or considering employment with the UN regardless of the type of appointment.

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