Last Updated on May 20, 2025, 1:27 PM AST by Anthony Morris
Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Garth Wilkin has called for more international effort in support of the rule of law in small island developing states at the 34th Session of the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ).
The session took place on May 19, 2025 at the Vienna International Centre in Austria. Attorney General Wilkin reported that St Kitts and Nevis faces issues with transnational criminal issues like gun and drug smuggling.
He also pointed out that they have serious capacity issues which leave small jurisdictions at a disadvantage that they cannot overcome without external help. Attorney General Wilkin reported that despite these issues, the Federation is still centered on pushing for justice reform.
He also noted that since October 2022, 83 pieces of legislation have been introduced to maintain order with 72 becoming law. They put forth several landmark criminal justice bills like the Plea Negotiations and Agreements Act, the Judge Alone Trials Act, the Voluntary Bill of Indictment Act, and the Justice Interference Prevention Act.
All of these Acts were enacted to streamline court processes simpler and to protect judicial integrity. The Attorney General also presented a “marked decline in serious crime” in the last seven months. Moreover, he warned that sustainability of these gains depends on investment in long-term institutional capability, such as professional development, computerized case management, and victim-focused services.
The Attorney General also underscored the country’s progress in anti-corruption efforts highlighting the activation of the Integrity Commission and the establishment of the Special Prosecutor’s Office. “A new culture which condemns corruption has evolved in our Federation,” said Attorney General Garth Wilkin.
At the close of his address, Attorney General Wilkin reported on the government’s push for Sustainable Development Goal 16 which is for peace, justice and effective institutions.
“We remain committed to advancing a justice system that upholds rights, delivers accountability, and contributes meaningfully to the global pursuit of sustainable development,” Attorney General Wilkin stated.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
